Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoa stands to receive $37,564,827.53 from U.S. Department of Commerce’s (USDOC) National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This “Internet for All” initiative is a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda.

The USDOC announced in a press release Monday that that it has allocated funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five territories to deploy affordable, reliable high-speed Internet service to everyone in America.

“What this announcement means for people across the country is that if you don’t have access to quality, affordable high-speed Internet service now – you will, thanks to President Biden and his commitment to investing in America,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.

“This is a watershed moment for millions of people across America who lack access to a high-speed Internet connection. Access to Internet service is necessary for work, education, healthcare, and more,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communication and Information Alan Davidson.

“Quality infrastructure and technology investment strengthens a local economy,” said Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata in a press release also issued on Monday. “Broadband can be especially important to provide the communications access necessary to being part of the worldwide economic, educational, and healthcare opportunities that are constantly advancing.

“Congratulations to our people, Governor Lemanu Mauga, ASG, and anyone who works with these funds, as they can make a difference for our territory,” she said. “Thank you to Secretary Gina Raimondo, the Department of Commerce, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson and NTIA for this announcement.”

The Broadband, Equity and Deployment (BEAD) funding will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses.

“This is a great day for the United States and a great day for American Samoa.” stated Governor Lemanu P. S. Mauga. “Rural and remote communities like American Samoa are at a disadvantage when it comes to participating in our global economy and community. These investments into high speed internet will help close the digital divide and get our people closer to competing on equal footing. Education, healthcare, job creation, and economic opportunities all received a big boost today. We have a great deal of work ahead of us, but this is a great step in the right direction,” added Governor Lemanu.

On March 7, 2023, the governor issued an executive order to formally establish the Broadband Coordination office under the Department of Commerce, informally known as the BCORD Office. The BCORD office will be responsible for administering American Samoa’s allocation via the BEAD program.

For more information on this and other broadband programs, call the Department of Commerce at 633-5155 or email broadband@doc.as.gov.