Tools & Resources

ENABLING MIDDLE MILE BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

Local networks are important for bringing high-speed internet to communities. But local networks aren't enough. They need to connect to robust, high-capacity national and regional networks. Middle mile infrastructure makes this possible. By connecting to major networks, local networks can ensure reliable high-speed internet service for even the most remote communities. The Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program provides funding for this vital part of our nation's high-speed network. With $1 billion in funding, the program will reduce the cost of bringing high-speed internet to unserved and underserved communities.

Funding Agency: Internet for All

Application Dates: September 30th, 2022

William Randolph Hearst Foundation

The Hearst Foundations assist leading regional hospitals, medical centers and specialized medical institutions providing access to healthcare for high-need populations. In response to the shortage of healthcare professionals necessary to meet the country’s evolving healthcare demands, the Foundations also fund programs designed to enhance skills and increase the number of practitioners and educators across roles in healthcare. The Foundations also support medical research and the development of young investigators to help create a broad and enduring impact on the nation’s health. The board meets to approve grants in March, June, September and December. The average time from proposal submission to grant award is six months. Click Here to Apply.

Funding Agency: Hearst Foundations

Application Dates: Accepted year round.

COVID-19 Response: Broadband Funding for Tribes, Tribal Colleges and Universities, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education, and the Indian Health Service

Three recent enacted laws that, in whole or in part, address the effects of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic provided both direct and indirect broadband funding for American Indian tribes, tribal colleges and universities, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education, and the Indian Health Service (collectively, “tribal entities”). They are

• the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, P.L. 116-136;
• Division N of Title IX of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (CAA, 2021), P.L. 116-260; and
• the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), P.L. 117-2.

This In Focus lists major broadband programs funded by these three laws as well as potential additional funding in subsequently proposed legislation.