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BAG Unlimited Program
Alaska Connects Broadband Access Grant Unlimited
(BAG Unlimited) Program for Schools
BAG Unlimited is administered by Alaska Connects, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit operated by Alaska Native women. Through this program, Alaska Connects may contribute up to 10% of the total cost for space-based broadband service providing speeds of more than 100 Mbps (download) to schools in Alaska communities with a population under 8,000 residents. Eligibility requires that the service provider contract rate does not exceed $350 per Mbps per month (see example below). Funding availability is limited.
The BAG Unlimited initiative is designed to encourage the use of new technologies by providing school districts with access to unrestricted broadband speeds.
This program is supported by private donors and foundations. All funding decisions are made at the sole discretion of Alaska Connects.
Program Requirements
Applicants: This program is exclusively for school districts located in Alaska serving communities with populations under 8,000 residents.
Service Requirements: Funding is strictly for Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) supported broadband connectivity services delivering more than 100 Mbps (download).
Cost Threshold: The service provider contract price must not exceed $350 per Mbps per month.
Funding Cap: Alaska Connects may fund up to 10% of the total costs of eligible broadband capacity.
Funding Details
Funding Formula Example: 200 Mbps download + 50 Mbps upload = 250 Mbps X $350/Mbps = $87,500 X 10% = $8,750 grant (assuming 10% funding).
Funding Source: BAG Unlimited is supported entirely through private contributions from individuals, businesses, and philanthropic foundations.
Funding Limitation: Funds are limited, and awards are made based on availability.
Distribution: Funding will be disbursed directly to the service provider on behalf of the participating school district.
No Fixed Deadlines: Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, with funding decisions made as resources become available.
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Application Submission Process
To apply, submit a completed application form (available on the Alaska Connects website) that details the following information:
Community population must be under 8,000 residents according to U.S. Census data.
Detailed information on the proposed service details, including broadband speeds of more than 100 Mbps download and a monthly cost not to exceed $350 Mbps.
Total service cost and requested funding amount (may request up to 10% of total costs).
Confirmation that the proposed service exclusively supports the schools and district offices.
Verification that the service is space-based (e.g., LEO satellite connectivity).
Comprehensive overview of all technologies and services to be delivered by the primary provider and any sub-providers.
Funding Decisions
Alaska Connects retains full discretion over all funding determinations.
Decisions are based on program eligibility, compliance with guidelines, and availability of funds.
Applicants will be promptly notified of the outcome (approval or denial) after the review process.
Additional Notes
School districts are responsible for ensuring their service provider contracts comply with program requirements.
Funding is restricted to broadband services directly connecting schools and district offices and cannot be used for any other purpose.
Alaska Connects reserves the right to amend these guidelines as necessary. Applicants should always refer to the most current version available on our website.
*** Alaska Connects does not endorse or recommend any specific service provider under this program or through any other means. ***
Join us in ensuring every Alaska school has the broadband capacity it needs with
no caps, no limits, and no barriers.
