Broadband Technical Assistance
ID: 354171Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Rural Utilities Service (USDA-RUS)

Award Range

$50K - $1M

Eligible Applicants

Small Businesses

Funding Category

Regional Development

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/354171
Timeline
    Description

    The Rural Utilities Service (RUS), part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is accepting applications for the Broadband Technical Assistance (BTA) program for Fiscal Year 2024. This program aims to provide competitive cooperative agreement funding to eligible entities, including small businesses and cooperatives, to deliver broadband technical assistance and training that promotes the expansion of broadband services in rural areas. The initiative is crucial for enhancing broadband infrastructure, which is vital for economic growth and improved quality of life in rural communities. Approximately $25 million is available, with individual grants ranging from $50,000 to $1 million, and the application deadline is August 20, 2024. For more information, applicants can refer to the BTA Application Guide or contact Christopher Proctor at christopher.proctor@usda.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    christopher.proctor@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    bta-appguide-fy24.pdf
    The USDA Rural Development's Broadband Technical Assistance (BTA) Application Guide for FY 2024 outlines the funding program designed to enhance broadband services in rural areas. Approximately $25 million is available, divided into technical assistance provider (max grant of $1 million) and recipient categories (max grant of $500,000). Eligible applicants include government entities, Tribes, educational institutions, and non-profits, aimed at promoting broadband infrastructure development. The guide details project eligibility requirements, scoring criteria—covering project work plans, organizational capacity, rurality, and economic need—and the necessary application submissions through Grants.gov. Specific limitations include disallowing funds for construction and projects in areas with existing broadband access. Ensuring the active participation of USDA staff is a key requirement for submission, as all proposals must show potential for significant broadband service expansion. Additionally, the guide addresses compliance with federal regulations and the need for clear documentation in proposals. The goal is to stimulate economic growth and improve life quality in rural communities through enhanced broadband access.
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