Today, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the U.S. Commerce Department announced the availability of $121.5 million in funds through the State and Local Implementation Grant Program (SLIGP) to help states prepare for a nationwide public safety broadband network. The grants will be used to support planning, consultation, education and outreach activities, as well as fund information collection efforts on infrastructure and equipment that may be used by the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to build the wireless network. The goal of the nationwide broadband network is to enable better communication between first responders during public emergencies to help save lives. SLIGP is a formula-based, matching grant program. The federal government will cover 80 percent of total project costs, while grant recipients will contribute at least 20 percent. Grant applications are due to NTIA from states and territories by March 19, 2013, and NTIA anticipates awarding the grants by July 15, 2013.

Link: Funding Opportunity; SLIGP FAQs