Like the FCC, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration also seeks to expand broadband, a need reflected in its FY2022 budget request. The overall amount is $89.5 million, which covers 189 positions.
In order to satisfy growing demands for wireless technology, the President’s budget asks for continuing investments in advanced wireless research, including support for 5G and beyond technologies. The budget allocates $38.7 million for advanced communications research, which includes $12 million in direct funding for communications research and an increase of $26.7 million for a new five-year research initiative called the Federal Advanced Communications Test Site project.
The budget request allocates $26.8 million for NTIA’s broadband programs, an increase of $10 million. NTIA says this will allow it to support the President’s goal of expanding broadband access, including the establishment of the Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth. This funding will support the added responsibilities of the new office, including connecting with states, communities, and minority organizations that need broadband and digital inclusion support and developing targeted training.
NTIA will also use the money to continue the monitoring and support of broadband grants. NTIA is currently implementing three grant programs that are funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The Broadband Infrastructure Program will direct $300 million toward infrastructure deployment in areas that lack broadband, especially rural areas. The Tribal Broadband Connectivity program includes $1 billion in funding to be used for increasing broadband access and adoption. The Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Program will direct $285 million to historically black colleges and universities, tribal colleges and universities, and other minority-serving institutions.
The President’s budget asks for a total of $15.6 million for NTIA’s domestic and international policy programs, which work to preserve a free and open internet that can serve as an engine for economic growth.
The request includes an additional $4 million to allow NTIA to contribute to securing the information and communications technology and services supply chain. The supply chain is critical to every aspect of America’s national and economic security, according to the agency.
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