- December 14, 2021 Arizona Department Of Education Erate Training Session - All Arizona Schools & Erate Vendors
- December 15 Arizona Department of Education Opportunity Assessment Deadline
- January 13, 2021 ASU Smart Region Summit!
- January & February NTIA Broadband Grant Programs Public Virtual Listening Sessions
- January 31, 2022 Application Deadline Arizona $100 million Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG)
- Arizona Commerce Authority Broadband Workshops: Recorded Webinars
- Rural Development Finance Webinars Series: Council of Development Finance Agencies
Arizona Department Of Education Erate Training Session
All Arizona Schools & Erate Vendors
December 14, 2021
02:00 PM in Arizona
Register Here
Scheduled for 2 hours. We will go through our agenda then take as much time as needed answering questions.
Register for an upcoming Arizona Erate training session:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsc-yurD8jH92Agx69AD3Bq_hhACLwMgiZ
Topics:
We have 2 Categories of service:
Category 1
As you evaluate bids from carriers, compare costs across the state to make sure you are getting the best rates possible: Bandwidth Cost Across Arizona. We have vendors charging as much as $50 per meg when the statewide average is now under $5 per meg. Carriers are required by law to provide you LCP (Lowest Corresponding Price) https://www.usac.org/e-rate/service-providers/step-2-responding-to-bids/lowest-corresponding-price/ . Do your due diligence and select a cost effective, reliable service provider.
State Carrier Contract (Award 5-26-20):
Schools may use state contract vendors by performing a “mini-bid” and request quotes from at least 3 of the vendors listed. Always attempt to get the best service for the best price based on your individual circumstances. Remember, a state contract vendor may not always be the right answer for your situation / service. Do your due diligence.
Biggest advantage to purchasing via State Contract (Great job by the State Procurement Office): You may cancel after 1 year without penalty.
Scope of Work, 3.8.2 Order Modifications and Cancellations (2), it says in part:
“Customer may modify or cancel an Order after Order acceptance. Contractors may modify Orders as authorized by the Customer. Modifications or cancellations shall be executed in writing or electronically. Any unauthorized modification or cancellation by Contractor shall constitute a material breach of the Contract and, at the Customer’s option, cause the Order to be void. Customer liability for modifications or cancellation made after Offer acceptance shall be limited to the full cost of all non-recoverable expenses, including any special construction charges, caused by the modification, not to exceed the non-recurring costs for products and services in the Order.”
Make sure your vendor quotes from State Contract and provides their contract number and SPIN on all documentation. The Arizona Department of Administration procurement office did a great job for our schools! Statewide Form 470: 200000218
To view State Contract Documents:
We have Special Construction funds available for builds to rural areas that are in need. An RFP is required to be posted with your Form 470 and the state match request must be approved prior to posting your Form 471. We have been very successful so far with over 50 completed projects! http://www.broadband4arizona.com/broadband-projects.html
Our Special Construction program has enabled virtually unlimited access to bandwidth. The suggested bandwidth for schools across the country is 4.3M per student and we strive to meet those goals in Arizona!
Contact Milan Eaton, State Erate Director for Schools
Arizona Department of Education
[email protected], 623-332-6357
All Arizona Schools & Erate Vendors
December 14, 2021
02:00 PM in Arizona
Register Here
Scheduled for 2 hours. We will go through our agenda then take as much time as needed answering questions.
Register for an upcoming Arizona Erate training session:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsc-yurD8jH92Agx69AD3Bq_hhACLwMgiZ
Topics:
- New Office of Digital Teaching and Learning
- Erate Basics and Timeline
- Special Construction Rules and Status
- ECF Program Update
- EBB Program Update
We have 2 Categories of service:
Category 1
- Data Transmission and / or internet access (Internet and WAN)
- Special Construction
- Internal connections https://www.usac.org/e-rate/applicant-process/before-you-begin/eligible-services-list/
As you evaluate bids from carriers, compare costs across the state to make sure you are getting the best rates possible: Bandwidth Cost Across Arizona. We have vendors charging as much as $50 per meg when the statewide average is now under $5 per meg. Carriers are required by law to provide you LCP (Lowest Corresponding Price) https://www.usac.org/e-rate/service-providers/step-2-responding-to-bids/lowest-corresponding-price/ . Do your due diligence and select a cost effective, reliable service provider.
State Carrier Contract (Award 5-26-20):
Schools may use state contract vendors by performing a “mini-bid” and request quotes from at least 3 of the vendors listed. Always attempt to get the best service for the best price based on your individual circumstances. Remember, a state contract vendor may not always be the right answer for your situation / service. Do your due diligence.
Biggest advantage to purchasing via State Contract (Great job by the State Procurement Office): You may cancel after 1 year without penalty.
Scope of Work, 3.8.2 Order Modifications and Cancellations (2), it says in part:
“Customer may modify or cancel an Order after Order acceptance. Contractors may modify Orders as authorized by the Customer. Modifications or cancellations shall be executed in writing or electronically. Any unauthorized modification or cancellation by Contractor shall constitute a material breach of the Contract and, at the Customer’s option, cause the Order to be void. Customer liability for modifications or cancellation made after Offer acceptance shall be limited to the full cost of all non-recoverable expenses, including any special construction charges, caused by the modification, not to exceed the non-recurring costs for products and services in the Order.”
Make sure your vendor quotes from State Contract and provides their contract number and SPIN on all documentation. The Arizona Department of Administration procurement office did a great job for our schools! Statewide Form 470: 200000218
To view State Contract Documents:
- https://app.az.gov/page.aspx/en/ctr/contract_browse_public
- Use Contract ID:
- CTR049871 – CableOne (SparkLight)
- CTR049872 – CenturyLink
- CTR049873 – COX
- CTR049874 – Gila LEC
- CTR049875 – Simply Bits LLC
- CTR049876 – Smith Bagley
- CTR049877 – Verizon
- CTR049878 – Windstream LLC
- CTR049879 – Zayo Group
- CTR049884 – Crown Castle LLC
- CTR049885 – Citizens Utility (Frontier)
- CTR050959 – FirstDigital Telecom
We have Special Construction funds available for builds to rural areas that are in need. An RFP is required to be posted with your Form 470 and the state match request must be approved prior to posting your Form 471. We have been very successful so far with over 50 completed projects! http://www.broadband4arizona.com/broadband-projects.html
Our Special Construction program has enabled virtually unlimited access to bandwidth. The suggested bandwidth for schools across the country is 4.3M per student and we strive to meet those goals in Arizona!
Contact Milan Eaton, State Erate Director for Schools
Arizona Department of Education
[email protected], 623-332-6357
Arizona $100 million Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG)
Application Deadline January 31, 2022
The ACA Arizona Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG) launched on November 15th and information about it has been posted on the ACA website (www.azcommerce.com/broadband). The $100 million Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG). Grants will serve underserved rural and areas of the state. The grants will reimburse costs associated with activities directly related to the construction, installation, or improvement of high-speed broadband infrastructure. Eligible applicants will include broadband service providers, local governments, Native American tribes, schools, libraries and more. $75 million will be targeted to rural counties and $25 million will be targeted to the urban counties (Maricopa and Pima counties). The deadline for applications (originally December 10, 2021), has been moved out to be January 31, 2022. Grant awards are expected to be announced by the end of February 2022.
For grant information see Arizona Commerce Authority Broadband Development Grant Program web page for details or contact Teri Orman ACA Grants Manager/Administrator. Teri will collect all questions about ABDG and post the answers on the website. [email protected]
Application Deadline January 31, 2022
The ACA Arizona Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG) launched on November 15th and information about it has been posted on the ACA website (www.azcommerce.com/broadband). The $100 million Broadband Development Grant Program (ABDG). Grants will serve underserved rural and areas of the state. The grants will reimburse costs associated with activities directly related to the construction, installation, or improvement of high-speed broadband infrastructure. Eligible applicants will include broadband service providers, local governments, Native American tribes, schools, libraries and more. $75 million will be targeted to rural counties and $25 million will be targeted to the urban counties (Maricopa and Pima counties). The deadline for applications (originally December 10, 2021), has been moved out to be January 31, 2022. Grant awards are expected to be announced by the end of February 2022.
For grant information see Arizona Commerce Authority Broadband Development Grant Program web page for details or contact Teri Orman ACA Grants Manager/Administrator. Teri will collect all questions about ABDG and post the answers on the website. [email protected]
ASU Smart Region Summit!
January 13, 2021
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
ASU Sun Devil Stadium's San Tan Ford Club
Information and Registration Here
The annual Smart Region Summit, convened by ASU and a diversity of partners, focuses on the application of new human and technological innovation strategies that put into action the concept of the “smart city and region.” Smart cities and regions leverage technology to share vital information with the public, make data-informed local improvements, increase efficiency and optimize infrastructure and resources to meet community needs. Indeed, smart technology has the potential to bolster equity across a region by expanding the reach and creative uses of services and tools -- like high-speed broadband and 5G.
During this year's day-long event at the ASU Sun Devil Stadium's San Tan Ford Club, our partner network will focus on the intersection of smart regions and digital inclusion with the goal of showcasing and designing, as a community, projects and work that bridges the digital divide. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the latest developments in smart technologies and connect with experts and next-generation leaders in the field.
Together, let's create more efficient places and spaces across Arizona and beyond that are optimized for all individuals.
Information and Registration Here
January 13, 2021
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
ASU Sun Devil Stadium's San Tan Ford Club
Information and Registration Here
The annual Smart Region Summit, convened by ASU and a diversity of partners, focuses on the application of new human and technological innovation strategies that put into action the concept of the “smart city and region.” Smart cities and regions leverage technology to share vital information with the public, make data-informed local improvements, increase efficiency and optimize infrastructure and resources to meet community needs. Indeed, smart technology has the potential to bolster equity across a region by expanding the reach and creative uses of services and tools -- like high-speed broadband and 5G.
During this year's day-long event at the ASU Sun Devil Stadium's San Tan Ford Club, our partner network will focus on the intersection of smart regions and digital inclusion with the goal of showcasing and designing, as a community, projects and work that bridges the digital divide. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the latest developments in smart technologies and connect with experts and next-generation leaders in the field.
Together, let's create more efficient places and spaces across Arizona and beyond that are optimized for all individuals.
Information and Registration Here
January & February NTIA Broadband Grant Programs Public Virtual Listening Sessions
Info and Registration
NTIA will host broadband grant program public virtual listening sessions in connection with the five new broadband grant programs authorized and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program; the Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program; and the Digital Equity Act Programs, which include the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program, State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, and Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program. These public virtual listening sessions are designed to collect stakeholder input to help inform program development and implementation.
NTIA will hold the public virtual listening sessions based on the following schedule:
For further information contact Maci Morin, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Room 4872, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20230; telephone: (202) 482–4884; email: [email protected]. Please direct media inquiries to NTIA’s Office of Public Affairs, (202) 482–7002; email [email protected].
Info and Registration
Federal Register Notice: Broadband Grant Programs Public Virtual Listening Sessions
Info and Registration
NTIA will host broadband grant program public virtual listening sessions in connection with the five new broadband grant programs authorized and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program; the Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program; and the Digital Equity Act Programs, which include the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program, State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, and Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program. These public virtual listening sessions are designed to collect stakeholder input to help inform program development and implementation.
NTIA will hold the public virtual listening sessions based on the following schedule:
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Broadband Programs Public Virtual Listening Session #1: Wednesday, December 15, 2021, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET);
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Broadband Programs Public Virtual Listening Session #2: Wednesday, January 12, 2022, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. ET;
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Broadband Programs Public Virtual Listening Session #3: Wednesday, January 26, 2022, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. ET;
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Broadband Programs Public Virtual Listening Session #4: Wednesday, February 9, 2022, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. ET; and
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Broadband Programs Public Virtual Listening Session #5: Wednesday, February 23, 2022, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. ET.
For further information contact Maci Morin, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Room 4872, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20230; telephone: (202) 482–4884; email: [email protected]. Please direct media inquiries to NTIA’s Office of Public Affairs, (202) 482–7002; email [email protected].
Info and Registration
Federal Register Notice: Broadband Grant Programs Public Virtual Listening Sessions
December 15 Arizona Department of Education Opportunity Assessment Deadline
The Office of Digital Teaching and Learning, as part of the Arizona Department of Education, has released it’s first Opportunity Assessment. The goal of this assessment is to identify the needs, goals and priorities that LEAs have, as well as resources needed to grow in digital learning. School Superintendents and Charter Representatives have received an email from the Office of Digital Teaching and Learning with the link they need to complete the assessment.
The Opportunity Assessment will close on December 15 end of day. Make sure that your district is represented! If a district / charter system did not receive the link, please follow this link to request the assessment:
Request the Opportunity Assessment
The Office of Digital Teaching and Learning, as part of the Arizona Department of Education, has released it’s first Opportunity Assessment. The goal of this assessment is to identify the needs, goals and priorities that LEAs have, as well as resources needed to grow in digital learning. School Superintendents and Charter Representatives have received an email from the Office of Digital Teaching and Learning with the link they need to complete the assessment.
The Opportunity Assessment will close on December 15 end of day. Make sure that your district is represented! If a district / charter system did not receive the link, please follow this link to request the assessment:
Request the Opportunity Assessment
Arizona Broadband Workshops
Arizona Broadband Workshops Website
The Arizona Commerce Authority, in cooperation with BroadbandUSA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and Economic Development Administration (EDA) has presented a new webinar series — the Arizona Broadband Workshops. Sessions were on the first Wednesday of every month from 10 am to 12 pm, March through July. Through interactive exercises and discussions, city officials, economic developers and business leaders who attend were connected with resources to build a roadmap for planning projects, including identifying funding opportunities and service providers. View the webinar recordings.
View the Past Webinar Recordings
Arizona Broadband Workshops Website
The Arizona Commerce Authority, in cooperation with BroadbandUSA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and Economic Development Administration (EDA) has presented a new webinar series — the Arizona Broadband Workshops. Sessions were on the first Wednesday of every month from 10 am to 12 pm, March through July. Through interactive exercises and discussions, city officials, economic developers and business leaders who attend were connected with resources to build a roadmap for planning projects, including identifying funding opportunities and service providers. View the webinar recordings.
View the Past Webinar Recordings
- Broadband 101 - Broadband As A Foundation To Economic Development: Join us for the first session in the Arizona Broadband Workshop series, featuring a variety of experts from the Governor's Office on Tribal Relations, BroadbandUSA and local experts. Learn about broadband terms, networks, and speed, and hear from others in your community about how broadband is transforming education, healthcare, agriculture and our economy. Then roll up your sleeves and complete exercises to help you identify the priorities that impact broadband in your community. WATCH
- Creating Broadband Action Teams and Building Local Partnerships: Arizona has worked collaboratively with public and private partners to coordinate broadband planning across the state. In this session, learn how to create a roadmap for your community’s broadband projects as you build a framework for community priorities, stakeholder engagement, asset inventories and more. WATCH
- Using Data As A Foundation For Your Broadband Plan: May 5: Online Soon
Open public data is readily available to jumpstart your broadband planning efforts. The key is understanding how to use the data effectively to tell your community story. Experts from BroadbandUSA will review the three main broadband data sets and demonstrate tools that you’ll be able to use to access the data for planning, business cases, partnership development, and grant applications. Watch - Federal Resources and Local Support For Broadband: June 2. Broadband projects often require a mix of investment sources. Our panel of experts will highlight some of the Federal, State, local, and philanthropic programs that could be available to support broadband infrastructure and digital inclusion programs. Watch
- Tribal Broadband Presented 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Wednesday, June 9 on Zoom. Arizona is prioritizing critical broadband projects in underserved tribal locations across the state. In this session, Kristine FireThunder, director of the Governor’s Office on Tribal Relations, will facilitated a discussion on strategies to build tribally-owned networks and further support tribal learning centers and digital training, including information on available financing and funding, community resources and more. Watch
- Broadband Adoption and Use - The Secret To Sustainable Networks: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Wednesday, July 14 on Zoom: This session will draw from national and local models to explore new ways to bridge the digital divide and dive deep on topics such as: digital skills training, WiFi hotspots, broadband subsidies and tech mentoring. Practitioners in education, nonprofits and more will facilitate exercises to identify your community’s underserved segments and partners to reach those populations. View
- Arizona Commerce Authority Broadband Website
Rural Development Finance Webinars Series
Council of Development Finance Agencies
CDFA Rural Development Finance Webinar Series: The Council of Development Finance Agencies offers a series on financing options to preserve rural communities, investments in health care, broadband, manufacturing, food systems and education.
CDFA Rural Development Finance Webinar Series
Council of Development Finance Agencies
CDFA Rural Development Finance Webinar Series: The Council of Development Finance Agencies offers a series on financing options to preserve rural communities, investments in health care, broadband, manufacturing, food systems and education.
CDFA Rural Development Finance Webinar Series
