On July 1, 2009 the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) issued a Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the State Broadband Data and Development (SBDD) grant program. The SBDD initiative is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) which provides a means by which states can create a broadband inventory map through a federally-funded program. As you are well aware, the SBDD program began at the same time as the BIP and BTOP programs.

The data collected from broadband providers will result in two distinctive sets of deliverables: (i) illustrative maps depicting broadband service as commissioned by the state; and (ii) a tab delimited data file to be provided to and protected by NTIA. If you want to read more about NTIA’s policies regarding confidential information, view the NOFA, NOFA clarification and FAQs at BroadbandUSA.

In order to promote the efficient creation of the state (and national) broadband maps, NTIA and RUS require that broadband Internet service providers, that apply for BIP or BTOP infrastructure grants, agree to provide data pursuant to the Technical Appendix (as revised). NTIA and RUS believe that the BIP and BTOP program’s incentive structure should compliment the goals of the state (and national) mapping efforts and that this requirement will further facilitate data collection.

The mandatory deadline for submission to NTIA has been moved from March 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010. However, providers are asked to respond as soon as possible in order to be included the development of the statewide map. Thereafter, the maps will be updated semi-annually.

We welcome and encourage participation by all providers under these straightforward terms.

How do I participate?

Step 1:
Download the Connected Nation Nondisclosure Agreement (NDA). Next, fill in the date, the provider name and address on Page 1 of the NDA, and the signature block on Page 4.

Step 2:
Send the NDA, preferably via e-mail to nda@connectmn.org. If e-mail is unavailable, you may fax the NDA to (270) 781-7611. We will return a fully-executed NDA to you for your files.

Questions?

Questions regarding the Nondisclosure Agreement should be sent to nda@connectmn.org.