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Federal Broadband Funding Webinars in May

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that the internet is critical infrastructure and getting Americans connected and keeping them connected is foremost in the thoughts of local, state, and federal policymakers. Federal broadband funding programs are being created and existing programs are being expanded. Billions in broadband funding will be made available and distributed over the coming weeks, months, and years. Below are some webinars on funding programs happening in May. Visit the CBO website and follow us on Twitter for up-to-date information. 

Distance Learning & Telemedicine (DLT) Grant: $72 million

The USDA opened a second application window totaling $72 million for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant program. This window includes $25 million appropriated through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The application deadline for window 2 is July 13, 2020.

USDA DLT Grant Program Window 2 Webinar

Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at 2 p.m. EDT

Webinar Details (click “Events” tab)

The USDA will host a webinar on the DLT Window 2 to provide program updates, requirements, and guidance on how to submit a successful DLT application. 

Register Now

Regional (CO, AZ, NM) USDA DLT Grant Program Webinar

Thursday, May 7, 2020, at 9 a.m. MDT 

Webinar Details

USDA Rural Development State Directors Jack Smith (AZ), Sallie Clark (CO), Eric Vigil (NM), and Telecommunications General Field Representative Brian Smith will host a regional DLT webinar focused on the second application window for the DLT Grant Program.

Register Now

Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) Auction 904: $16 billion

In January, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established the $20.4 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). The Phase 1 auction (Auction 904) will award up to $16 billion for the deployment of voice and fixed broadband services to approximately 5.9 million unserved locations nationwide. The auction is currently scheduled to begin October 22, 2020. 

FCC Rural Broadband Auctions Task Force RDOF Phase I Auction (Auction 904) Webinar

Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at 4 p.m. EDT

Webinar Details

The Rural Broadband Auctions Task Force (RBATF) will host a webinar to provide an overview of the auction, the proposed applications and bidding procedures, and useful tips for applicants. The webinar will also focus on opportunities for small businesses to participate and win funding in Auction 904. The webinar does not require preregistration. At the time of the webinar, click here to join.

CBO RDOF Auction 904 “Ask the Experts” Webinar ($700M)

Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at 10 a.m. MDT 

Webinar Details

The Colorado Broadband Office (CBO) will host an “Ask the Experts” webinar providing interested applicants with critical information on how to navigate the FCC Auction 904 process, apply for eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC) status, and discuss available funding for Colorado locations. We highly recommend attending the FCC’s 904 Auction Overview webinar on May 5, 2020, for a working understanding of the 904 Auction and in preparation for the CBO Ask the Experts webinar.

Register Now

FCC RDOF Phase I Auction Webinar For Government Officials

Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at 2 p.m. EDT.  

Webinar Details

The FCC’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs (IGA), the Office of Native Affairs and Policy (ONAP), and the Rural Broadband Auctions Task Force (RBATF) will host a webinar focusing on the issues related to Auction 904 that affect state, local, Tribal, and territorial governments. The webinar also will provide an overview of the adopted policy framework for Auction 904, the proposed procedures for applications and bidding in the auction, and tips for applying to participate in the auction. The webinar does not require preregistration. At the time of the webinar, click here to join.