Funding for the Expansion of Gigabit Networks

This funding program targets municipalities in Rhineland-Palatinate that wish to advance the expansion of gigabit-capable broadband networks. The goal is to improve digital infrastructure in areas where private sector expansion has not yet occurred.

The program supports investments in digital infrastructure, particularly the expansion of gigabit-capable broadband networks. This includes the construction of passive infrastructures, financial participations in private network operators to close economic viability gaps, and related consulting services.

This program provides grants for the expansion of gigabit-capable broadband networks, with funding amounts up to 80 million Euros per project for infrastructure measures and up to 200,000 Euros for consulting services. The funding rate varies depending on the type of project, with a minimum co-financing of 10% required.

Specific conditions apply to funding regarding the project start, the conduct of competitive procedures, and compliance with state aid regulations. Additionally, rules for co-financing, budget utilization, and public relations must be observed.

The funding application must be submitted in writing or electronically to the Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, Transformation, and Digitalization. The procedure is two-stage, with a preliminary and a final approval, each requiring specific documents. The Ministry is responsible for examination and approval, while the State Office for Social Affairs, Youth and Supply Rhineland-Palatinate is responsible for fund disbursement and proof of use verification.

The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, Transformation, and Digitalization is the granting authority responsible for application receipt, examination, approval, disbursement, and changes. The State Office for Social Affairs, Youth and Supply Rhineland-Palatinate handles tasks such as fund disbursement verification, proof of use verification, revocation of decisions, recovery of grants, and on-site inspections. A competitive selection procedure is mandatory for the main funding items to select a suitable network operator and ensure compliance with state aid regulations.