Round 2 of Broadband Stimulus, Calix, and You
The Round 1 Stimulus awards have been announced. Many Calix customers will be building out new infrastructure to areas that previously could not have supported a broadband deployment business case. Calix customers that bid fiber access (GPON and AE to residences, GPON and point-to-point Ethernet to anchor institutions) were particularly successful in the Round 1 process.
The changes between Round 1 and Round 2 are significant and greatly improve the chances of an area qualifying for Stimulus dollars. Key modifications to the point scoring system clearly place rural telco and cooperative applicants in an advantageous position. In addition, the standard awards will now have a higher percentage of grant dollars, which makes the business case for these potential projects much more attractive. Round 2, the last and final Stimulus award round, is already under way and accepting applications, with billions of dollars still available. This represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have the Federal government help you meet your strategic infrastructure goals.
As the leading advanced broadband solutions provider to rural America, Calix is here to help you understand the process and assist you in pulling together a successful application. As part of that effort, we strongly recommend that you:
Round 2 Broadband Stimulus FAQ
Q: When are applications due?
A: March 15, 2010 at 5:00 PM.
Q: Can I apply to both RUS and NTIA?
A: No – For a given project you must submit to either one program or the other. Last mile projects should be submitted to BIP. RUS borrowers can submit middle mile projects to BIP; otherwise all middle mile projects should be submitted to BTOP.
Q: Is there a deadline by which the RUS and NTIA projects must be awarded?
A: Yes – The RUS and NTIA must award all funds by September 30, 2010.
Q: Who is the NTIA and what is its role in the Broadband Stimulus?
A: The National Telecommunications Information Agency (NTIA) was established in 1978 within the Department of Commerce and advises the President on telecommunications and information policy.
Q: How will Calix provide assistance to its customers in seeking funds from the Broadband Stimulus?
A: In addition to information available on this website and through the Calix User Group web page, Calix will be conducting periodic informational webinars and live educational events across the country. One-on-one consulting sessions can also be coordinated as well with your regional Calix sales team. Calix will also be providing support to customers engaged in the proposal process. Please register your interest in assistance from Calix and consult with your local Calix sales team for assistance.
Note: The Calix User Group web page (portal.calix.com/portal/site/usergroup) requires a login. If you don't have a login, you can register here.
