Middle Mile Grant Program

Background
The Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant (MMG) Program, authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, aims to expand and extend middle mile infrastructure to reduce the cost of connecting unserved or underserved areas to the internet backbone. The program is part of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's (NTIA) efforts to address the digital divide and promote broadband connection resiliency.

Grant Details
The MMG Program provides funding for the construction, improvement, or acquisition of middle mile infrastructure. Eligible entities include States, political subdivisions, Tribal governments, technology companies, electric utilities, telecommunications companies, nonprofit organizations, and partnerships of these entities. The grant amount ranges from $5,000,000 to $100,000,000 with a total funding availability of up to $980,000,000. The period of performance for grants ends five years from the date on which the grant funds are made available to the eligible entity. Applicants must demonstrate financial, managerial, technical, and operational capability to carry out the proposed project. Additionally, they must comply with cost-sharing requirements and meet buildout benchmarks.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include States, political subdivisions of a State, Tribal governments, technology companies, electric utilities, utility cooperatives, public utility districts, telecommunications companies or cooperatives, nonprofit organizations or institutions, regional planning councils, Native entities or economic development authorities. Partnerships of two or more eligible entities are also eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for grants issued pursuant to this program ends five years from the date on which the grant funds are made available to the eligible entity. Extensions may be granted under certain circumstances.

Grant Value
$980 million is available for federal assistance under the MMG Program with individual grant awards ranging from $5 million to $100 million.