Choosing the right mix of technologies to achieve Internet for All

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is seeking public comment on one of the most challenging aspects of the Internet for All initiative: projects serving the most difficult and remote locations to connect. Connecting everyone in America will require a variety of technologies. As states and territories begin selecting providers to build these networks, NTIA is seeking public comment on proposed guidance for how states and territories can fund a broad range of technologies to ensure connectivity for the most remote and expensive locations. Fiber is a future-proof technology that will grow with families’ data needs over time. It is the gold standard. But where fiber is not economically feasible, states and territories have other options. NTIA is releasing draft policy guidance, consistent with the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), that provides states and territories additional clarity as to how to consider projects using alternative technologies. The NOFO outlines a clear cascade of options for states and territories to follow when choosing providers to receive Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program funding.