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NTIA's State Broadband Initiative implements the purposes of both the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Broadband Data Improvement Act, which envisioned a comprehensive program -- led by state entities or non-profit organizations working at their direction -- to help integrate broadband and information technology into state and local economies.
Through the State Broadband Initiative (formerly called the State Broadband Data and Development grant program), NTIA awarded a total of $293 million to 56 grantees, one from each of the 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia, or their designees. Grantees are using this funding to support the efficient and creative use of broadband technology to better compete in the digital economy. These state-created efforts vary depending on local needs but include programs to assist small businesses and community institutions in using technology more effectively, conduct research on barriers to broadband adoption, implement innovative applications that increase access to government services and information, and support state and local task forces to expand broadband access and adoption.
Since accurate data is critical for broadband planning, another purpose of the State Broadband Initiative is to assist states in gathering data twice a year on the availability, speed, and location of broadband services, as well as the broadband services that community institutions use. The data will be used by NTIA to update its publicly searchable, interactive National Broadband Map.
See also: NTIA's Recovery Act broadband programs
Pursuant to Section 6001(d)(4) of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA or Recovery Act) (Public Law No. 111-5), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) provides this Quarterly Report on the status of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP or Program). This Report focuses on the Program’s activities from April 1 to June 30, 2014.
Pursuant to Section 6001(d)(4) of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA or Recovery Act) (Public Law No. 111-5), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) provides this Quarterly Report on the status of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP or Program). This Report focuses on the Program’s activities from January 1 to March 31, 2014.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) last week hosted the second in a series of stakeholder workshops as we launch a new initiative to leverage the success of our Recovery Act broadband grant programs and support communities nationwide seeking to build their broadband capacity.
Over the past five years, NTIA’s Broadband Technology Opportunities Program and State Broadband Initiative have invested more than $4 billion in network infrastructure, public computer centers, digital inclusion projects and broadband mapping. These programs have taught us that closing the digital divide is a multi-pronged challenge that demands a comprehensive, holistic approach.
Addressing existing gaps requires not only network availability and robust bandwidth, but also affordable computer equipment and monthly service, effective training and useful applications. It also requires collaboration among many stakeholders, including local, state and federal officials, community leaders, industry executives, private foundations and broadband advocates.
Last week’s workshop, held in Minneapolis, brought together more than 100 stakeholders for a series of informative panel discussions, presentations and networking opportunities. Participants also met with NTIA staff, who will be providing guidance, technical assistance, funding leads and connections to help communities expand broadband access and adoption.