The Biden administration announced this week $42.45 billion in funding from the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program going to all U.S. states, territories and the District of Columbia, including over $415 million to Iowa. The funding will support grant programs that deploy or upgrade broadband networks ensuring everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Currently, 84,509 homes and small businesses in Iowa lack access to high-speed internet, a news release said. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used on broadband adoption, training and workforce development efforts. Recipients have 180 days starting July 1 to submit their initial proposals for how they will run their grant programs to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. A list of funding allocations by state is available at internetforall.gov. More information about federal broadband funding awarded to Iowa is available at this link.
