NTIA Shortens Broadband Mapping Grants from 5 to 2 Years

On July 8, 2009, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration published a Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) in the Federal Register to announce the availability of funds for the State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program. NTIA's highest priority with respect to this Program is to facilitate the development and maintenance of a national broadband map. The Agency seeks to develop the map in such a way that encourages continually improved data collection efforts while maintaining fiscal responsibility, resulting in a map that meets the requirements of Congress and the needs of all stakeholders, including policymakers and consumers. To that end, NTIA has determined that it will at this time fund mapping and data collection efforts for two years and will assess lessons learned, determine best practices, and investigate opportunities for improved data collection prior to obligating funding for subsequent years. NTIA now clarifies that the initial period of performance for funds allocated to Broadband Mapping purposes will be two years from the date of award and any subsequent funding will be subject to and contingent upon the agency's review of program priorities and the availability of funds.