New Broadband Funding Opportunity
Connect New Mexico Pilot Program $123 million in broadband expansion funding. Grants to cover up to 75 percent of total project costs for network expansion in unserved and underserved areas of the state.
Eligible applicants – local governments, tribal communities, schools, nonprofits, cooperatives, and broadband service providers.
Schedule: Webinars and Technical Assistance
You are invited to join the Office of Broadband and Expansion for the following Zoom webinars:
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Overview: August 17- Wednesday at 12:00 PM (MT)
Application Overview: August 19- Friday at 12:00 PM (MT)
Scoring Guide Overview: August 22 – Monday 12:00 PM (MT)
Interactive Broadband Map Overview: August 23- Tuesday 12:00 PM (MT) – presented by EDAC team
Please register in advance using the link below:
Registration Link
Timeline - Applications accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis across three waves.
Wave One - due September 23, 2022
Wave Two - due December 9, 2022
Wave Three - due February 27, 2023
For more information and application details, visit the
Office of Broadband Access and Expansion website for the Pilot Program - Link
Eligible applicants – local governments, tribal communities, schools, nonprofits, cooperatives, and broadband service providers.
Schedule: Webinars and Technical Assistance
You are invited to join the Office of Broadband and Expansion for the following Zoom webinars:
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Overview: August 17- Wednesday at 12:00 PM (MT)
Application Overview: August 19- Friday at 12:00 PM (MT)
Scoring Guide Overview: August 22 – Monday 12:00 PM (MT)
Interactive Broadband Map Overview: August 23- Tuesday 12:00 PM (MT) – presented by EDAC team
Please register in advance using the link below:
Registration Link
Timeline - Applications accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis across three waves.
Wave One - due September 23, 2022
Wave Two - due December 9, 2022
Wave Three - due February 27, 2023
For more information and application details, visit the
Office of Broadband Access and Expansion website for the Pilot Program - Link
| pilot-program-nofo-2022-08-10.pdf |
Press Release August 11, 2022
https://www.governor.state.nm.us/2022/08/10/gov-lujan-grisham-launches-statewide-broadband-grant-pilot-program/
Archive of Funding Resources - Fall 2021
"Rural E-Connectivity Program - USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Program
Applications Due: February 2022
This program furnishes loans and grants to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement,
and/or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service to eligible rural areas.
The USDA's Broadband ReConnect Program new rules dramatically expand eligibility and effectively redefine broadband. Entities that can apply for ReConnect assistance include corporations, limited liability companies/partnerships, cooperative or mutual organizations, states/local governments including agency/subdivision/instrumentality/political subdivision, and Tribal (as defined in Section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b).
Link to ReConnect Program Service Area Maps from the USDA
Evaluation Criteria - https://www.usda.gov/reconnect/evaluation-criteria
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN
Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
Broadband Infrastructure
Focus of households and businesses without a wireline connection capable of reliably delivering 25 Mbps download/ 3 Mbps upload
Fund projects that deliver reliable high quality service
Minimum 100 Mbps download/ 100 Mbps upload speeds unless impracticable
Promote last mile connections and affordable serviced
Funding: State, counties and City of Santa Fe to receive funding directly from Treasury Department; Non-Entitlement Units of Government to receive their funding from the state (expected by early June)
Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund
The Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund (CCPF) will address many challenges laid bare by the pandemic, especially in rural America and low- and moderate-income communities, helping to ensure that all communities have access to the high-quality, modern infrastructure needed to thrive, including internet access.
The American Rescue Plan provides $10 billion for payments to States, territories, and Tribal governments to carry out critical capital projects that directly enable work, education, and health monitoring, including remote options, in response to the public health emergency.
Funding Available: $10 billion
NO FO: No announcement yet
NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS & INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION (NTIA)
Broadband Infrastructure Program Grant - $288 Million
Who can Apply Covered Partnership - A partnership between a State or 1 or more political subdivisions of a State and a provider of fixed broadband service
For What Covered Broadband Projects - A Competitively and technologically neutral project for the deployment of fixed broadband service that provides qualifying broadband service in an eligible service area
When NTIA will start accepting applications with the issuance of this Notice of Funding Opportunity
Key Facts
Posted Date: May 19, 2021
Closing Date for Application: Complete applications must be received by www.grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern
Daylight Time (EDT) on August 17, 2021.
Funding Instrument: Grant
Expected Number of Awards: 200
Funding Range: NTIA expects to make awards under this program within the following funding range:
$5,000,000 to $30,000,000. This range is not a required minimum or maximum, but covered
partnerships requesting amounts for projects outside of this range must provide a reasonable explanation for the variance in their project size.
CFDA Number 11.031 Broadband Infrastructure Program
Cost Sharing or Matching None but 10% non-federal strongly suggested to earn 5 extra points in scoring criteria
Contact Jennifer Duane Senior Broadband Program Specialist Phone 202-482-2048
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program - $1 Billion
Who can Apply Tribal Governments, Tribal Organizations, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU’s), the Department of Hawaiian Homelands on behalf of the Native Hawaiian Community and Native Corporations
For What To expand broadband adoption and deployment on tribal lands, as well as to support distance learning, remote work and telehealth during the COVID-19 Pandemic
When NTIA anticipates accepting applications for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity in Summer 2021
Eligible Entities
Tribal Governments
Tribal Colleges and Universities
The Department of Hawaiian Homelands on behalf of the Native Hawaiian Community
Including Native Hawaiian education programs
Tribal Organizations
Native Corporations as defined under Section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act
Eligible Uses
Broadband infrastructure deployment, including support for the establishment of carrier-neutral submarine cable land stations
Affordable broadband programs including –
Providing free or reduced-cost broadband service and;
Preventing disconnection of existing broadband service
Distance learning
Telehealth
Digital infusion efforts and
Broadband adoption activities
Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Project - $285 Million
Who can apply Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s)
Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU’s)
Minority Serving Institutions (MSI’s)
Consortiums led by HBCU’s. TCU’s or MSI’s that include a Minority Business Enterprise or Not-for-profit Organization
For What The purchase of broadband internet access service or any eligible equipment or to hire and train information technology personnel
To facilitate education instruction and learning including through remote instruction or
To operate the minority business enterprise or
To operate the not-for-profit organization
When NTIA anticipates accepting applications for the CMC Pilot Program in Summer 2021
Eligible Entities
Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Tribal Colleges and Universities
Minority Serving Institutions
Alaskan Native Serving Institution
Native Hawaiian Serving Institution
Hispanic Servicing Institution
Predominantly Black Institution
Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution
Native American Serving Institution
A consortium that is led by a HBCU, TCU, or MSI and that also includes a minority business enterprise of a tax exempt organization described in the IRS code of 1986
USDA Programs
Rural Development Broadband Re-Connect Program
The Broadband Re-Connect Program furnishes grants and loans for the cost of construction, improvement or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in areas where sufficient access is not available to at least 90% of the households. Rural communities of 20,000 or less.
USDA seeks to fund projects that can provide broadband service to a designated rural area at a speed of at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps) downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. Projects to be performed in a tribal area may receive priority consideration according to the Program’s review criteria.
Eligible Applicants:
State, local, and tribal governments, as well as relevant nonprofits and for profit entities. Applications to be performed on tribal lands require some additional certifications from the tribal government of jurisdiction and in some cases may need to be performed by the area’s Protected Broadband Borrower; see this Program eligibility map for more details.
Eligible Cost Purposes
To fund the construction or improvement of facilities, including buildings and land, required to provide fixed terrestrial broadband service.
To fund reasonable pre-application expenses.
To fund the acquisition and upgrade of an existing system that is not currently providing sufficient access to broadband service (eligible for 100 percent loan requests only).
Funding Parameters
90% of the Proposed Funding Service Area (PFSA) must not have sufficient access to broadband service as defined in the FOA
Applicants must propose a network that can provide broadband service to every premise within the PFSA at the speed defined in the FOA at the same time
Funding categories (loans, loan/grants, grants) will be established in the FOA
Funding for Program: $635 million
NOFO: Late Summer or Fall 2021
Contact: General Field Representative Brian.Smith1@usda.gov (623) 293-0913
Telecom Loan Program
What does this program do?
This program provides financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas.
This program is accepting applications year round.
Who may apply?
Most entities that provide telecommunications in qualified rural areas including
State and local governmental entities
Federally Recognized Tribes ι
Non-profits, including Cooperatives, and limited dividend or mutual associations
For-profit businesses (must be a corporation or limited liability company)
What is an eligible area?
Rural areas and towns with a population of 5,000 or less
Areas without telecommunications facilities or areas where the applicant is the recognized telecommunications provider are eligible
Check with your local RD office to determine whether the proposed service area qualifies
How may the funds be used?
Funds may be used to finance broadband capable telecommunications service
Improvements
Expansions
Construction
Acquisitions (in certain cases)
Refinancing (in certain cases)
For additional detail see Code of Federal Regulations 7 CFR 1735
What kind of funding is available?
Cost-of-Money Loans are direct loans from USDA Rural Utilities Service
Loan Guarantees of up to 80% allow private lenders, including the Federal Financing Bank (FFB), to extend credit to qualified borrowers in rural areas
Hardship Loans may be used, at the sole discretion of USDA Rural Utilities Service, to assist applicants in meeting financial feasibility requirements for applications to serve underserved areas
How do we get started?
Applications for this program are accepted by the National Office year-round.
Applicants should work with their local General Field Representative to ensure complete and eligible applications prior to submission.
For Program Resources please refer the "Forms and Resources" Tab (forms needed, guidance, certifications etc…)
Who can answer questions about this program?
For questions about the Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program, please call the Loan Origination and Approval Division at (202) 720-0800.
Community Connect Grant Program
The Purpose of the Community Connect Program is to provide financial in the form of grants to eligible applicants who will provide on a “community oriented connectivity” basis broadband service that foster economic growth and delivers educational, health care and public safety benefits.
Eligible Applicants:
Indian Tribe or Tribal organization
A state or local unit of government
An incorporated organization
A cooperative, private corporation or limited liability company organized on for profit or non-profit basis
Rural communities of 20,000 or less
Funding Available: $35 Million
Match Requirement: 15%
Application Window is Closed
Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants
This program provides or improves Distance Learning and/or Telemedicine services in rural America by funding equipment that allows rural residents to access distance learning or telemedicine services from hub sites located in large urban or suburban areas overcoming the effect of remoteness and low population density.
Eligible Applicants: State, local, and tribal governments, as well as businesses, nonprofits, and institutions of higher education.
NOFO Published: April 5, 2021
Application Due: June 4, 2021
Award Range: $50,000 to $1,000,000
Website: www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants
DLTinfo@usda.gov
Contact: Richard Anderson, Grants Manager (202) 720-0800
Rural Broadband Program
The Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan Guarantee Program (Broadband Program) furnishes loans and loan guarantees to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide service at the broadband lending speed in eligible rural areas.
To be eligible for a broadband loan, an applicant may be either a non-profit or for-profit organization, and must take one of the following forms:
• Corporation;
• Limited liability company (LLC);
• Cooperative or mutual organization;
• A state or local unit of government
• Indian tribe or tribal organization
Individuals and Partnerships are not Eligible.
Broadband loans provide funding on a technology-neutral basis for financing:
The construction, improvement, and acquisition of facilities required to provide service at the broadband lending speed including facilities required for providing other services through the same facilities
The cost of leasing facilities required to provide service at the broadband Lending speed if such lease qualifies as a capital lease under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
An acquisition, under certain circumstances and with restrictions
This program is going through a regulation revision and has not been released for funding in a couple years due to that needing to be completed.
Contact: Loan Origination and Approval Division
(202) 720-0800 or General Field Representative
Or Brian.Smith1@usda.gov
Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program - $500 million
What does this program do?
This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.
Who may apply for this program?
Eligible borrowers include:
Public bodies
Community-based non-profit corporations
Federally-recognized Tribes
What is an eligible area?
Rural areas including cities, villages, townships and towns including Federally Recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data are eligible for this program.
How may funds be used?
Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and / or improve essential community facilities, purchase equipment and pay related project expenses.
Examples of essential community facilities include:
Health care facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, nursing homes or assisted living facilities
Public facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars or street improvements
Community support services such as child care centers, community centers, fairgrounds or transitional housing
Public safety services such as fire departments, police stations, prisons, police vehicles, fire trucks, public works vehicles or equipment
Educational services such as museums, libraries or private schools
Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment
Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or greenhouses
What kinds of funding are available?
Low interest direct loans
Grants
A combination of the two above, as well as our loan guarantee program. These may be combined with commercial financing to finance one project if all eligibility and feasibility requirements are met.
What are the funding priorities?
Priority point system based on population, median household income
Small communities with a population of 5,500 or less
Low-income communities having a median household income below 80% of the state nonmetropolitan median household income.
How do we get started?
Contact your local office to discuss your specific project
Applications for this program are accepted year round
Program resources are available online (includes forms needed, guidance, certifications)
Request a Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number if your organization doesn’t already have one. It should not take more than a few business days to get your number.
Register your organization with the System for Award Management (SAM) if you aren’t already registered. The registration is free, but you need to complete several steps.
Who can answer questions?
Contact your local RD office.
Community Programs & Community Facilities Programs
Christine Griego, Acting Program Director, 505-761-4957
Fax Number: 855-543-9499
Deadline: October 1, 2021
FCC PROGRAMS
E-Rate Emergency Connectivity Fund - $7.17 Billion –
This $7.17 billion program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, will enable schools and libraries to purchase laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, and broadband connectivity for students, school staff, and library patrons in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible equipment:
1. Wi-Fi hotspots;
2. Modems;
3. Routers;
4. Devices that combine a modem and router; and
5. Connected devices.
FCC to issue rules by May 10 with expected filing during the summer.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program - $3.2 billion
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an FCC program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, and virtual classrooms.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute $10-$50 toward the purchase price.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
A household is eligible if one member of the household:
Qualifies for the Lifeline program;
Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year;
Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
Experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or
Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating providers' existing low-income or COVID-19 program.
How to Apply for the Emergency Broadband Benefit
Option 1 – Contact a participating broadband provider directly to learn about their application process.
Option 2 – Go to GetEmergencyBroadband.org to apply online and to find participating providers near you.
Option 3 – Send a mail-in application, along with proof of eligibility to:
Emergency Broadband
Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, Ky 40742
Participating Broadband Providers
There are currently 51 approved Broadband Providers in the State of New Mexico.
A list can be found at www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers
Funding: The available funding is on a first come, first serve basis
until the funding runs out. Broadband Providers will notify customers if the benefit is about to end to prevent sticker shock.
BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
National Tribal Broadband Grant
Purpose: BIA’s Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development offers funding to tribes to perform feasibility studies on the deployment or expansion of broadband through methods such as digital subscriber line, cable modem, fiber, wireless, satellite and broadband over power lines.
Our Division of Economic Development provides the opportunity for tribes to receive funding to explore the possibility of developing or extending broadband services in their communities to:
Spur economic development and commercial activity
Create opportunities for self-employment
Enhance educational resources and remote learning opportunities
Meet emergency and law enforcement needs
Eligible Applicants: Tribal governments.
Funding: No funding currently available. Program has not re-opened
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP)The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, provides new sources of tribal broadband funding to assist in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which is exacerbating the digital divide across Indian Country. With the designated funding, NTIA is developing the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP), a $1 billion program directed to tribal governments to be used for broadband deployment on tribal lands, as well as for telehealth, distance learning, broadband affordability, and digital inclusion. Entities eligible for TBCP grants include tribal governments, tribal organizations, TCUs, the Native Hawaiian Community, and Native Corporations.
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) published on grants.gov Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Additional Resources
Applications Due: February 2022
This program furnishes loans and grants to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement,
and/or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service to eligible rural areas.
The USDA's Broadband ReConnect Program new rules dramatically expand eligibility and effectively redefine broadband. Entities that can apply for ReConnect assistance include corporations, limited liability companies/partnerships, cooperative or mutual organizations, states/local governments including agency/subdivision/instrumentality/political subdivision, and Tribal (as defined in Section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b).
Link to ReConnect Program Service Area Maps from the USDA
Evaluation Criteria - https://www.usda.gov/reconnect/evaluation-criteria
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN
Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
Broadband Infrastructure
Focus of households and businesses without a wireline connection capable of reliably delivering 25 Mbps download/ 3 Mbps upload
Fund projects that deliver reliable high quality service
Minimum 100 Mbps download/ 100 Mbps upload speeds unless impracticable
Promote last mile connections and affordable serviced
Funding: State, counties and City of Santa Fe to receive funding directly from Treasury Department; Non-Entitlement Units of Government to receive their funding from the state (expected by early June)
Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund
The Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund (CCPF) will address many challenges laid bare by the pandemic, especially in rural America and low- and moderate-income communities, helping to ensure that all communities have access to the high-quality, modern infrastructure needed to thrive, including internet access.
The American Rescue Plan provides $10 billion for payments to States, territories, and Tribal governments to carry out critical capital projects that directly enable work, education, and health monitoring, including remote options, in response to the public health emergency.
Funding Available: $10 billion
NO FO: No announcement yet
NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS & INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION (NTIA)
Broadband Infrastructure Program Grant - $288 Million
Who can Apply Covered Partnership - A partnership between a State or 1 or more political subdivisions of a State and a provider of fixed broadband service
For What Covered Broadband Projects - A Competitively and technologically neutral project for the deployment of fixed broadband service that provides qualifying broadband service in an eligible service area
When NTIA will start accepting applications with the issuance of this Notice of Funding Opportunity
Key Facts
Posted Date: May 19, 2021
Closing Date for Application: Complete applications must be received by www.grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern
Daylight Time (EDT) on August 17, 2021.
Funding Instrument: Grant
Expected Number of Awards: 200
Funding Range: NTIA expects to make awards under this program within the following funding range:
$5,000,000 to $30,000,000. This range is not a required minimum or maximum, but covered
partnerships requesting amounts for projects outside of this range must provide a reasonable explanation for the variance in their project size.
CFDA Number 11.031 Broadband Infrastructure Program
Cost Sharing or Matching None but 10% non-federal strongly suggested to earn 5 extra points in scoring criteria
Contact Jennifer Duane Senior Broadband Program Specialist Phone 202-482-2048
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program - $1 Billion
Who can Apply Tribal Governments, Tribal Organizations, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU’s), the Department of Hawaiian Homelands on behalf of the Native Hawaiian Community and Native Corporations
For What To expand broadband adoption and deployment on tribal lands, as well as to support distance learning, remote work and telehealth during the COVID-19 Pandemic
When NTIA anticipates accepting applications for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity in Summer 2021
Eligible Entities
Tribal Governments
Tribal Colleges and Universities
The Department of Hawaiian Homelands on behalf of the Native Hawaiian Community
Including Native Hawaiian education programs
Tribal Organizations
Native Corporations as defined under Section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act
Eligible Uses
Broadband infrastructure deployment, including support for the establishment of carrier-neutral submarine cable land stations
Affordable broadband programs including –
Providing free or reduced-cost broadband service and;
Preventing disconnection of existing broadband service
Distance learning
Telehealth
Digital infusion efforts and
Broadband adoption activities
Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Project - $285 Million
Who can apply Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s)
Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU’s)
Minority Serving Institutions (MSI’s)
Consortiums led by HBCU’s. TCU’s or MSI’s that include a Minority Business Enterprise or Not-for-profit Organization
For What The purchase of broadband internet access service or any eligible equipment or to hire and train information technology personnel
To facilitate education instruction and learning including through remote instruction or
To operate the minority business enterprise or
To operate the not-for-profit organization
When NTIA anticipates accepting applications for the CMC Pilot Program in Summer 2021
Eligible Entities
Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Tribal Colleges and Universities
Minority Serving Institutions
Alaskan Native Serving Institution
Native Hawaiian Serving Institution
Hispanic Servicing Institution
Predominantly Black Institution
Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution
Native American Serving Institution
A consortium that is led by a HBCU, TCU, or MSI and that also includes a minority business enterprise of a tax exempt organization described in the IRS code of 1986
USDA Programs
Rural Development Broadband Re-Connect Program
The Broadband Re-Connect Program furnishes grants and loans for the cost of construction, improvement or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in areas where sufficient access is not available to at least 90% of the households. Rural communities of 20,000 or less.
USDA seeks to fund projects that can provide broadband service to a designated rural area at a speed of at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps) downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. Projects to be performed in a tribal area may receive priority consideration according to the Program’s review criteria.
Eligible Applicants:
State, local, and tribal governments, as well as relevant nonprofits and for profit entities. Applications to be performed on tribal lands require some additional certifications from the tribal government of jurisdiction and in some cases may need to be performed by the area’s Protected Broadband Borrower; see this Program eligibility map for more details.
Eligible Cost Purposes
To fund the construction or improvement of facilities, including buildings and land, required to provide fixed terrestrial broadband service.
To fund reasonable pre-application expenses.
To fund the acquisition and upgrade of an existing system that is not currently providing sufficient access to broadband service (eligible for 100 percent loan requests only).
Funding Parameters
90% of the Proposed Funding Service Area (PFSA) must not have sufficient access to broadband service as defined in the FOA
Applicants must propose a network that can provide broadband service to every premise within the PFSA at the speed defined in the FOA at the same time
Funding categories (loans, loan/grants, grants) will be established in the FOA
Funding for Program: $635 million
NOFO: Late Summer or Fall 2021
Contact: General Field Representative Brian.Smith1@usda.gov (623) 293-0913
Telecom Loan Program
What does this program do?
This program provides financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas.
This program is accepting applications year round.
Who may apply?
Most entities that provide telecommunications in qualified rural areas including
State and local governmental entities
Federally Recognized Tribes ι
Non-profits, including Cooperatives, and limited dividend or mutual associations
For-profit businesses (must be a corporation or limited liability company)
What is an eligible area?
Rural areas and towns with a population of 5,000 or less
Areas without telecommunications facilities or areas where the applicant is the recognized telecommunications provider are eligible
Check with your local RD office to determine whether the proposed service area qualifies
How may the funds be used?
Funds may be used to finance broadband capable telecommunications service
Improvements
Expansions
Construction
Acquisitions (in certain cases)
Refinancing (in certain cases)
For additional detail see Code of Federal Regulations 7 CFR 1735
What kind of funding is available?
Cost-of-Money Loans are direct loans from USDA Rural Utilities Service
Loan Guarantees of up to 80% allow private lenders, including the Federal Financing Bank (FFB), to extend credit to qualified borrowers in rural areas
Hardship Loans may be used, at the sole discretion of USDA Rural Utilities Service, to assist applicants in meeting financial feasibility requirements for applications to serve underserved areas
How do we get started?
Applications for this program are accepted by the National Office year-round.
Applicants should work with their local General Field Representative to ensure complete and eligible applications prior to submission.
For Program Resources please refer the "Forms and Resources" Tab (forms needed, guidance, certifications etc…)
Who can answer questions about this program?
For questions about the Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program, please call the Loan Origination and Approval Division at (202) 720-0800.
Community Connect Grant Program
The Purpose of the Community Connect Program is to provide financial in the form of grants to eligible applicants who will provide on a “community oriented connectivity” basis broadband service that foster economic growth and delivers educational, health care and public safety benefits.
Eligible Applicants:
Indian Tribe or Tribal organization
A state or local unit of government
An incorporated organization
A cooperative, private corporation or limited liability company organized on for profit or non-profit basis
Rural communities of 20,000 or less
Funding Available: $35 Million
Match Requirement: 15%
Application Window is Closed
Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants
This program provides or improves Distance Learning and/or Telemedicine services in rural America by funding equipment that allows rural residents to access distance learning or telemedicine services from hub sites located in large urban or suburban areas overcoming the effect of remoteness and low population density.
Eligible Applicants: State, local, and tribal governments, as well as businesses, nonprofits, and institutions of higher education.
NOFO Published: April 5, 2021
Application Due: June 4, 2021
Award Range: $50,000 to $1,000,000
Website: www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants
DLTinfo@usda.gov
Contact: Richard Anderson, Grants Manager (202) 720-0800
Rural Broadband Program
The Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan Guarantee Program (Broadband Program) furnishes loans and loan guarantees to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide service at the broadband lending speed in eligible rural areas.
To be eligible for a broadband loan, an applicant may be either a non-profit or for-profit organization, and must take one of the following forms:
• Corporation;
• Limited liability company (LLC);
• Cooperative or mutual organization;
• A state or local unit of government
• Indian tribe or tribal organization
Individuals and Partnerships are not Eligible.
Broadband loans provide funding on a technology-neutral basis for financing:
The construction, improvement, and acquisition of facilities required to provide service at the broadband lending speed including facilities required for providing other services through the same facilities
The cost of leasing facilities required to provide service at the broadband Lending speed if such lease qualifies as a capital lease under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
An acquisition, under certain circumstances and with restrictions
This program is going through a regulation revision and has not been released for funding in a couple years due to that needing to be completed.
Contact: Loan Origination and Approval Division
(202) 720-0800 or General Field Representative
Or Brian.Smith1@usda.gov
Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program - $500 million
What does this program do?
This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.
Who may apply for this program?
Eligible borrowers include:
Public bodies
Community-based non-profit corporations
Federally-recognized Tribes
What is an eligible area?
Rural areas including cities, villages, townships and towns including Federally Recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data are eligible for this program.
How may funds be used?
Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and / or improve essential community facilities, purchase equipment and pay related project expenses.
Examples of essential community facilities include:
Health care facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, nursing homes or assisted living facilities
Public facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars or street improvements
Community support services such as child care centers, community centers, fairgrounds or transitional housing
Public safety services such as fire departments, police stations, prisons, police vehicles, fire trucks, public works vehicles or equipment
Educational services such as museums, libraries or private schools
Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment
Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or greenhouses
What kinds of funding are available?
Low interest direct loans
Grants
A combination of the two above, as well as our loan guarantee program. These may be combined with commercial financing to finance one project if all eligibility and feasibility requirements are met.
What are the funding priorities?
Priority point system based on population, median household income
Small communities with a population of 5,500 or less
Low-income communities having a median household income below 80% of the state nonmetropolitan median household income.
How do we get started?
Contact your local office to discuss your specific project
Applications for this program are accepted year round
Program resources are available online (includes forms needed, guidance, certifications)
Request a Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number if your organization doesn’t already have one. It should not take more than a few business days to get your number.
Register your organization with the System for Award Management (SAM) if you aren’t already registered. The registration is free, but you need to complete several steps.
Who can answer questions?
Contact your local RD office.
Community Programs & Community Facilities Programs
Christine Griego, Acting Program Director, 505-761-4957
Fax Number: 855-543-9499
Deadline: October 1, 2021
FCC PROGRAMS
E-Rate Emergency Connectivity Fund - $7.17 Billion –
This $7.17 billion program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, will enable schools and libraries to purchase laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, and broadband connectivity for students, school staff, and library patrons in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible equipment:
1. Wi-Fi hotspots;
2. Modems;
3. Routers;
4. Devices that combine a modem and router; and
5. Connected devices.
FCC to issue rules by May 10 with expected filing during the summer.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program - $3.2 billion
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an FCC program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, and virtual classrooms.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute $10-$50 toward the purchase price.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
A household is eligible if one member of the household:
Qualifies for the Lifeline program;
Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year;
Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
Experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or
Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating providers' existing low-income or COVID-19 program.
How to Apply for the Emergency Broadband Benefit
Option 1 – Contact a participating broadband provider directly to learn about their application process.
Option 2 – Go to GetEmergencyBroadband.org to apply online and to find participating providers near you.
Option 3 – Send a mail-in application, along with proof of eligibility to:
Emergency Broadband
Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, Ky 40742
Participating Broadband Providers
There are currently 51 approved Broadband Providers in the State of New Mexico.
A list can be found at www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers
Funding: The available funding is on a first come, first serve basis
until the funding runs out. Broadband Providers will notify customers if the benefit is about to end to prevent sticker shock.
BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
National Tribal Broadband Grant
Purpose: BIA’s Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development offers funding to tribes to perform feasibility studies on the deployment or expansion of broadband through methods such as digital subscriber line, cable modem, fiber, wireless, satellite and broadband over power lines.
Our Division of Economic Development provides the opportunity for tribes to receive funding to explore the possibility of developing or extending broadband services in their communities to:
Spur economic development and commercial activity
Create opportunities for self-employment
Enhance educational resources and remote learning opportunities
Meet emergency and law enforcement needs
Eligible Applicants: Tribal governments.
Funding: No funding currently available. Program has not re-opened
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP)The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, provides new sources of tribal broadband funding to assist in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which is exacerbating the digital divide across Indian Country. With the designated funding, NTIA is developing the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP), a $1 billion program directed to tribal governments to be used for broadband deployment on tribal lands, as well as for telehealth, distance learning, broadband affordability, and digital inclusion. Entities eligible for TBCP grants include tribal governments, tribal organizations, TCUs, the Native Hawaiian Community, and Native Corporations.
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) published on grants.gov Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Additional Resources
- BroadbandUSA's "one-stop" funding site is updated annually and provides information on how to access federal funding to support broadband planning, public access, digital inclusion, and deployment projects.
- BroadbandUSA provides information regarding Federal Permitting across agencies, including information from the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs.
- BroadbandUSA provides Digital Inclusion publications and resources from Department of Commerce and other federal agencies, including resources relevant to tribal governments looking to address the digital divide.
- BroadbandUSA publishes toolkits for communities seeking to expand broadband access and adoption, including:
- Planning Community Broadband Roadmap: A Toolkit for Local and Tribal Governments
- The Power of Broadband Partnerships: A Toolkit for Local and Tribal Governments
- Sustaining Broadband Networks: A Toolkit for Local and Tribal Governments
- Implementing a Broadband Network Vision: A Toolkit for Local and Tribal Governments
