In a time when high-speed internet has become a necessity, the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) Program emerges as a beacon of hope for underserved communities in North Carolina. With an impressive allocation of $400 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, this program not only aims to bridge the digital divide but also ensures that essential broadband services reach every nook and cranny in the state.
Our mission is to bring high-speed internet to every resident of North Carolina. So, CloudWyze sees this as an exciting opportunity for our company and counties to collaborate with the North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT) in funding and implementing broadband deployment projects.
How the CAB Program Works
Through the CAB Program, NCDIT and the Broadband Infrastructure Office will work with counties to establish a competitive process that allows broadband providers to bid on infrastructure deployments. It’s important to note that the success of this program hinges on the active participation of counties.
Local government will play a crucial role in identifying areas that are in dire need of high-speed internet access and formulating comprehensive plans for the construction, installation, and operation of broadband networks in these underserved communities.
To facilitate this collaboration, NCDIT will provide counties with customizable procurement templates and streamlined processes. This support ensures that counties can efficiently manage their involvement in the program and maximize the impact of their investments.
The Program Requirements
Projects funded through the CAB Program must have matching investments from both the counties and selected broadband service providers, establishing a shared responsibility and commitment from all involved in the deployment of new broadband infrastructure. With a maximum funding limit of $4 million per county in a single year from the CAB Fund, the program offers counties a significant financial boost to realize their broadband goals.
Reaching More Areas with CAB
The CAB Program intends to complement the existing program, Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) Grant. While the GREAT Grant program has undoubtedly made considerable strides in expanding broadband access across North Carolina, there are still many areas that are left without assistance. The CAB Program works to fill this gap effectively, providing another avenue for counties to secure funding and address the digital divide.
Additionally, the CAB Program allows previously proposed GREAT Grant projects that did not receive funding to be reconsidered. This provision ensures that no project is overlooked, leaving no stone unturned in the mission to provide high-speed internet access to residents that have been eagerly anticipating this essential service.
By combining the strengths of the CAB Program and the GREAT Grant program, North Carolina is taking a holistic and aggressive approach to bridging the digital divide and creating a more connected future for every resident.
Bring High-Speed Internet to Your Area with CloudWyze
The mission of CloudWyze is to provide optimized internet access and service, utilizing the best technology available, to ensure every resident and business across North Carolina is given equal opportunity to perform at their highest potential.
It’s no secret that high-speed internet has become an essential component in the success of our homes, work, schooling, and more. The CAB Program is an amazing opportunity for CloudWyze to continue partnering with counties in North Carolina to further our mission. With its generous funding and comprehensive approach, this program is set to make a significant impact across the state ensuring that no community is left behind.
Interested in bringing high-speed internet to your community? Fill out the form below to start a conversation with CloudWyze!