Doug Payauys

The United States government has prioritized expanding broadband coverage to those communities that remain underserved or unserved. Through various programs such as CAF, RDOF, CARES, and USDA ReConnect, billions of dollars have been allocated and distributed to providers for increasing their broadband coverage and closing the digital divide

As the demand for increased coverage grows, federal agencies are now expanding their funding with a focus on distribution at the state and local levels. Some federal agencies are closing applications as soon as February 22, 2022.

What sort of funding is available? How do you know if you qualify?

Adtran has compiled a list of 2022 resources to assist service providers and communities looking to claim funding for expanded broadband coverage. Learn more below about the American Rescue Plan, USDA ReConnect Program, and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

American Rescue Plan – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF)

• Approximately $1.9 trillion budget with up to $350 billion allocated for infrastructure projects, including local discretion for ‘necessary investments’ in broadband
• Recovery funds designed to aid state, local, tribal, and territory improvements
• Capital Project Fund – projects dedicated to enabling work, education, and health
• Benefits recently expanded by the U.S. Treasury Department to no longer restrict cities to providing coverage for unserved and underserved
• U.S. Treasury Department issued a new ruling and released a corresponding FAQ resource regarding funds distribution and allocation in January 2022
• This section clarifies eligibility to include more entities and updates terms like “reliably” to give providers discretion to define.&