For rural broadband, FCC gives $4.9 billion to small ISPs

StateScoop: The Federal Communications Commission will provide $4.9 billion to 171 local wireless carriers through the agency’s Universal Service Fund over the next 10 years, commission Chairman Ajit Pai announced Friday.

Using a subsidizing model designed to award smaller carriers consistent funding each year, the money is expected to provide wireless high-speed internet service to more than 450,000 homes and businesses across 39 states and American Samoa.

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