Broadband Program

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Two broadband grant programs are currently available.

Broadband Interconnectivity (HB21-1289) Grant Program: $5,000,000 available

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) with funding from HB21-1289 supports the Broadband Interconnectivity Program to provide public institutions, private businesses, and citizens with access to reliable broadband service.

Grants under HB21-1289 are prioritized toward providing broadband interconnectivity between communities in rural or other areas that are currently unserved and underserved by broadband infrastructure. Consistent with the US Department of Treasury Interim Final Rule, users are defined as being unserved or underserved if they lack access to a wireline connection capable of reliably delivering at least minimum speeds of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload to households and businesses.

Applications may be made for either Planning or Middle Mile Interconnectivity projects and applications for Broadband Interconnectivity projects may be submitted at any time. Eligible entities include Regional Councils of Governments (or similar collaboration) and local government partnerships. Projects awarded money under this grant program, except for projects awarded to Indian tribes or nations, cannot use the money for last-mile broadband deployment.

Applications for either Planning or Middle Mile Interconnectivity projects open October 25,
2021 and close on December 31, 2021.

Please contact your Regional Manager for additional information and instructions.

Apply and Manage Broadband Interconnectivity (HB21-1289) Grant

Broadband Planning and Infrastructure Set-Aside: $3,600,000 available
DOLA supports the efforts of local governments to improve Broadband service to their constituents to achieve enhanced community and economic development.
The program:

Promotes inter-jurisdictional communication
Supports better access to services available over Broadband, such as distance learning opportunities and telemedicine
Provides planning and middle mile infrastructure grants

o Grants for broadband planning and infrastructure are applied for, managed and reported through the Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Program

Please contact your Regional Manager for additional information and instructions.

Apply and Manage Broadband Planning and Infrastructure Set-Aside Grant