Programs will focus on key industries like healthcare, education, agriculture, and government, Puerto Rico Broadband Program Director Michelle Cabiya said. #NewsismyBusiness
Puerto Rico is now among the first 10 states and territories to receive approval to begin deploying broadband expansion plans. #NewsismyBusiness
The funds would pay for the launch of the Affordable Device & Partnership Program, infrastructure projects, and equity and access projects. #NewsismyBusiness
States, including Puerto Rico, have until May 28 to complete and submit applications. #NewsismyBusiness
The U.S. Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration this week awarded a $1.4 million grant to Puerto Rico under the State and Local Implementation Grant Program to help in planning for the island’s First Responder Network Authority, known as FirstNet.
Puerto Rico needs to be proactive and keep the pressure on the U.S. government, especially the Federal Communications Commission, to make sure the island gets the funding it needs to advance broadband deployment and availability, Henry Rivera, former agency member told the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators in Fajardo late last week.
Rico’s low broadband penetration and Internet usage levels are holding the island back from achieving true economic growth, industry experts agreed Wednesday, saying that with just 40-out-of-100 people using the Internet, progress is — and will likely remain — stunted.
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