The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) allocated $7.2 billion to expand broadband access to unserved and underserved communities across the U.S. to increase jobs, spur investments in technology and infrastructure, and provide long-term economic benefits in those communities. The Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunication Information Administration (NTIA) were given the responsibility of directing these funds. As a result, the NTIA established the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) and RUS, similarly, established the Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP). Both programs will award funding through two rounds of Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

Infinera has assembled a list of commonly FAQs to provide a general overview of the Stimulus program.

1. How much will be dedicated to NTIA and how much to RUS?

The NTIA will distribute $4.7 billion and $2.5 billion will be distributed by RUS.

2. What are the application deadlines for round 1 and round 2?

Round 1 application deadline has passed. Round 2 applications are due by 5:00 p.m. ET on March 10, 2010.

3. When will funding be announced?

Round 1 funding has been announced on a rolling basis since mid-December 2009. Announcements for Round 1 should be completed in February 2010. Round 2 funding will be announced on a rolling basis beginning June 2010 and may stretch through September 2010.

4. Should I apply for BTOP, BIP or both?

In Round 1, applicants could submit their applications to both BTOP and BIP. For Round 2, you cannot apply to both for the same project. BTOP prioritizes applications focusing on Middle Mile projects inclusive of anchor institutions while BIP prioritizes rural Last Mile projects inclusive of anchor institutions.

5. When can I apply for Round 2 funding?

Online applications will be available February 16, 2010.

6. How do I submit Last Mile and Middle Mile applications?

All applications must be submitted electronically using broadbandusa.gov's online application.

7. Any suggestions on strengthening my application?

Both NTIA and RUS encourage applicants to examine Round 1 applications that have been awarded funding. Here’s a link to two awarded projects and their applications: Merit Network and MCNC.

8. Does Infinera offer resources to help with applying for funds?

Infinera has a network of consultants and other experts who may be able to help with your application. Contact us here.

Still have questions? Please submit all questions and check back periodically for a response as we are continuously updating our FAQs page.