ARPA Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program (BIP)
The ARPA Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program funds high-speed fiber broadband expansion to unserved and underserved areas in Missouri, aiming to bridge the digital divide by 2026.
Funder: Missouri Department of Economic Development
Due Dates: November 13, 2022: ARPA Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program service area challenge submission deadline
Funding Amounts: $261 million total awarded in 2023; individual awards ranged from $100,000 to $10 million per project; maximum applicant award $100 million.
Summary: Funds projects expanding high-speed fiber broadband to over 50,000 unserved and underserved addresses across Missouri.
Key Information: Application cycle is closed; all funded projects must be operational by September 30, 2026.
Description
The ARPA Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program (BIP) was established to expand high-speed fiber broadband access to more than 50,000 unserved and underserved addresses throughout Missouri. With a total of $261 million awarded in 2023 to 60 recipients, the program targets areas lacking adequate connectivity and aims to bridge the digital divide. Funded projects are required to be operational by September 30, 2026. The program included a transparent application process with a service area challenge mechanism to ensure efficient allocation of funds and avoid service duplication.
