Agency: Commerce – National Telecommunications and Information Administration
Description:
Establishes a fund for the construction, improvement or acquisition of so-called “middle mile infrastructure” to connect local high-speed broadband networks with national or regional networks. Eligible applicants include States, political subdivisions of a State, Tribal governments, technology companies, electric utilities, utility cooperatives, public utility districts, telecommunications companies, telecommunications cooperatives, nonprofit foundations, nonprofit corporations, nonprofit institutions, nonprofit associations, regional planning councils, Native entities, or economic development authorities.
Bill Section:
60401
New or Existing:
New
Potential Cost:
$1,000,000,000
Timeline:
Until expended.
Implementation Status/Rulemaking:
In May 2022, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the availability of $980 million in federal assistance through the Middle Mile Grant Program. Applications were originally due September 30, 2022 but the deadline was later extended to November 1, 2022: Source
As of February 22, 2024, NTIA has awarded a total of $980 million across 39 grants. A list of grantee is available here
TCS Notes:
Grants can cover no more than 70 percent of the cost of any individual project (Secretary can waive this provision for grants made to Tribal Governments and Native entities).