Frequently Asked Questions

Get the Facts

  

When will funds be available?

We expect three series of appeals for funding.

  • April to June '09
  • July to September '09
  • April to June '10

We speculate that the first release of funds could be in September/October timeframe.

           

How do I gain an advantage?

Priority is going to be given to:

  • Projects that are ready to commence promptly
  • Project that offers choice of more than one service provider
  • Providing service to the most rural residents with no Broadband access
  • Projects that will provide the most advanced technology and services
  • Former borrows of REA
  • Demonstration that project is fully funded & sustainable
  • Consideration will be made to "socially and economically disadvantaged small business"

     

Should I wait for the application process to be defined?

Do you have a project with business plan that was shelved due to funding or the economy and it meets the criteria to receive loan or grants? This would be a great candidate.
Have a complete and professional package.

Demonstrate how the project will:

  • Create jobs, near and long term
  • Economic development & growth
  • Aid & benefit to local government:
    • Public safety
    • Schools
    • Improved healthcare
    • Homeland security 

Bundle grant requests — even though you cannot solicit NTIA and RDUP to fund the same piece of a project you can request additional funds to support programs that would be synergistic with the network you intend on building. 

  • School upgrades - computer and data centers
  • Health IT - tele-medicine
  • Education - tele-learning and higher education
  • Public housing improvements - in building wiring to support FTTH
  • Smart grid money - connect every meter for home energy management
  • Power grid improvements
  • Community internet cafes & wireless zones
  • Department of Transportation money

Get in contact with your regional RDUP representative and NTIA officials.

  • Understand "Who" is influential

Work the local, regional and state politicians. Make them aware of your plans. Solicit their support. The NTIA will be coordinating with state government.

  • Are there additional grants & funding from local sources?