Broadband Data Improvement Act

In the American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1), $350 million is available for the State Broadband Data & Development Grant Program.

The Broadband Data Improvement Act (P.L. 110-385) passed Congress with unanimous bipartisan support in October 2008 and was supported by a diverse group of organizations, non-profits and companies.

The BDIA provides the framework for cooperative, voluntary broadband mapping and effective
demand stimulation efforts at the local level. The basic components that drive successful broadband expansion and use are:

1. Granular, statewide broadband infrastructure mapping

2. County-by-county research to identify and understand the specific barriers to broadband adoption in each community

3. Local technology planning teams in every county to develop tactical and community-specific strategic plans for broadband expansion in increased utilization

4. Computer ownership programs in low-income and low-adoption areas

5. Collaboration and cooperation between the public and private sectors across all program elements