Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program
Opportunity Information
The Infrastructure Program provides long-term direct and guaranteed loans to qualified organizations for the purpose of financing the improvement, expansion, construction, acquisition, and operation of telephone lines, facilities, or systems to furnish and improve Telecommunications, 911, and Emergency Communications services in rural areas. http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/telecommunications-infrastructure-loans-loan-guarantees
The Infrastructure Program provides long-term direct and guaranteed loans to qualified organizations for the purpose of financing the improvement, expansion, construction, acquisition, and operation of telephone lines, facilities, or systems to furnish and improve Telecommunications, 911, and Emergency Communications services in rural areas. http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/telecommunications-infrastructure-loans-loan-guarantees
Program Amount
Graduated Scale
Application Deadline
Applications for this program are accepted through the General Field Representative year-round
Competitive
Eligible projects are selected based on specific criteria in the NOFO
Eligible Applicants
State and local government entities, federally recognized Tribes, non-profit corporations, and for-profit businesses
Objective
Funds construction, maintenance, improvement, and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas
Planning and Organization
Acquisitions and refinancing
Equipment
Improvement, expansions, and construction of 911 activities and services related to emergency response efforts
NOFO Language
Through this program, USDA will leverage public and private resources to speed the rural deployment of dual-use public safety/commercial wireless networks, address homeland security communications needs along America's rural international borders, and finance enhanced 911 capabilities for carriers and communities. Advantages include the ability to precisely locate rural wireless 911 calls, contact 911 via text message, or send emergency responders photos or videos of crime scenes or accidents. The program finances wireless upgrades for public safety and security.
Interpretation
Recipients should consider integrating NG911 strategic planning and implementation with efforts to enhance 911 capabilities.