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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Broadband?

Broadband: Essentially is High-Speed Internet Access. Can take many forms like: Cable Modems, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), Wireless Broadband (e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMax), Satellite, etc... High-Speed is generally defined as at least 200 Kbps in either direction.

What is at Stake?

• Technology is quickly changing the way we live and do business.
• Broadband infrastructure is a cornerstone of job creation and regional competitiveness in today’s global economy.
• Broadband is often the foundation to spur new application services that can stimulate the local economy and job creation.
• Broadband supports the lifestyles of the 21st Century.
• Rural communities must chart a course for delivery of needed Broadband Communications Infrastructure.

How can Bridge help rural communities?

• Provides a $5 million competitive financing program to support deployment of High Speed Broadband in rural areas of Georgia.
• Funding is available to cover all or portion of costs for technical assistance (will be based on need).
• Funding is available to support both single county and multi-county broadband projects.

What funds are available?

A total of $5 million will be available for award on July 1, 2006. Individual loans are based on the number of rural counties receiving new or enhanced high speed broadband services:

• Single County - $200,000 Maximum
• Two Counties - $400,000 Maximum
• Three or more Counties - No Maximum (Based on Strategy/Sustainability)

When is a loan likely?

Private ownership of Assets

• Ownership exclusively by a private entity
• Loan payments repaid to OGA

Public Ownership Assets

• Ability to service debt via lease with private sector, etc
• Strong Pro-forma / previous record of financial success

Zero Percent Interest Loan Rate

• 0% Interest OGA loan to encourage extension of Broadband service to underserved rural areas

When can I apply?

• Rolling application process
• No deadlines for submission
• Applications will be reviewed in order received and level of completeness