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Grant Application - Broadband Satellite Resiliency Grant Program
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INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jason May, Budget & Grants Management, Director, 704-283-3760
ACTION REQUESTED:
1) Approve the application submitted for the Broadband Satellite Resiliency Grant with NCDIT and 2) authorize the County Manager to approve any future grant agreements and documents or purchases of approved materials related to this application.
PRIOR BOARD ACTIONS:
None.
BACKGROUND:
The $1 million Broadband Satellite Resiliency Grant program awards funds to eligible entities (including local governments) to purchase equipment that can deliver satellite internet service, as well as related installation materials. NCDIT is prioritizing applications within the 39 North Carolina counties designated inside the Hurricane Helene federal disaster area, including Union County. There was a deadline to submit interest by September 30, 2026.
In October 2026, after reviewing submitted applications, NCDIT will contact entities that have completed the interest form to confirm they meet the eligibility and program criteria and to confirm equipment type and funding amount being requested. If the application and any subsequent application materials are approved by NCDIT, applicants may then make a purchase of approved materials as part of the grant program. After approval of application materials, approved grantees will submit financial information, along with a reimbursement request/invoice/proof of payment showing purchase of equipment to NCDIT. NCDIT will then process the reimbursement request and distribute payments to grantees.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The grant request amount has not yet been determined and will be based on the eligible items approved by NCDIT. There is no match required for this grant.