I'm meeting today with Debra-Tyler Horton (Ass't Director) and Jan Nichols (their Tech person) of the Justice Center about their interest in a possible BTOP proposal.

So, for the first time, I took a good look at their NOFA. I really question whether there is any opportunity at all for us. Almost all the $7.4 Billion is slated for infrastructure -- medium mile and last mile build-outs for unserved and very strictly defined underserved areas. Of that amount, there is $200 million for expanding community tech centers in those areas and $250 million for "sustainable broadband adoption" in those areas. Little opportunity for any creativity and the focus is on residential end users rather than community innovation projects. Not sure if there will be any wiggle room in these regs -- at least in this round. I'm really disappointed. So much money and so little vision.

Have you taken a look at it?
http://www.broadbandusa.gov/files/BB%20NOFA%20FINAL%2007092009.pdf

See critique at http://www.newamerica.net/publications/policy/summary_concerns_and_strat...

Just got this from AFCN (are you on that list?) from a crazy ass colleague Gene Crick (the only lib'ral in Texas).

It looks like the first BTOP grant has been announced. Deadline is way too tight for us, but it might make sense for me to volunteer as a reviewer -- especially since I did it for 3 years for TOP. Would be a great window in. Only problem is that the emphasis is on broadband tech stuff and I don't have any of that so I might not be eligible, but I think I will go for it. Why don't you, too?

See below....

invitation forwarded...

as many here know, reviewing grant apps for TIIAP... ahh TOP... umm, make
that BTOP, is truly enjoyable - a chance to do good work by sharing ideas,
skills and experience.

In fact, aren't we more or less obligated to volunteer? After so many
disheartening years, this new BTOP is a rare second chance for an
important program. It deserves all the support we can offer.

sincerely,
an anonymous techno-liberal

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 6, 2009

Call for Reviewers

Broadband Technology Opportunities Program
Help America Advance its National Objective of Broadband Access for All
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of
the U.S. Department of Commerce is soliciting volunteers to serve as
panelists to evaluate grant proposals for the $4.7 billion Broadband
Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), an important part of the American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. NTIA is accepting applications for
its first round of BTOP grants from July 14, 2009 until August 14, 2009,
and will conduct panel reviews through at least the end of September,
2009. As a reviewer, your evaluations will be an important factor
considered by NTIA in determining whether to award grant funding. To be
considered as a reviewer you must have significant expertise and
experience in at least one of the following areas:

1) the design, funding, construction, and operation of broadband networks
or public computer centers;
2) broadband-related outreach, training, or education; and
3) innovative programs to increase the demand for broadband services.

In addition you must agree to comply with Department of Commerce policies
on conflict of interest and confidentiality.

We are committed to ensuring that reviewers come from diverse backgrounds
and areas of the United States. Please feel free to circulate this “Call
for Reviewers” to other individuals or organizations that may be sources
of qualified reviewers. To apply to be a panel reviewer for BTOP, please
email a resume containing the
information below to BTOPReviewers@ntia.doc.gov:
• Name
• Residence (city and state)
• Email/phone number
• Employer
• Position/Title
• Years and types of experience and positions in fields related to BTOP
activities
NTIA will examine and approve reviewer applications on a first-come,
first-served basis.

Approved reviewers will be contacted to schedule participation in a
webinar orientation session and teleconference panel reviews.
Although there will be no direct reimbursement for your time and
expertise, you may be assured that you will be making a significant
contribution to enhancing broadband services throughout the United States.
We appreciate the valuable contribution you will be making to the success
of BTOP and look forward to working with you as a reviewer.
If you have questions, please send them by email to:
BTOPReviewers@ntia.doc.gov.
For additional information, please see http://www.broadbandusa.gov/

OK. I keep expecting to jump in here with both feet and life crap keeps getting in the way. Ready to move. So where am I now?

1) Thinking that instead of going around "hat in hand" trying to market a service, it makes sense to contact key people, organizations, and foundations for an informational interview. Hone a good one-pager and supportive materials. Ask for advice on ways to structure a demo ... and just "do it". Actually implement a 6 -9 month demonstration -- what do they call it, Christian? Proof of practice or some such? I really don't need much $$$ to do it. Some travel, office supplies -- mainly my own time. Lay the groundwork for shaking the money tree later.

2) A big focus will be on documenting:
a) savings -- real and potential from resource sharing and service coordination -- will need to come up with some formulas;
b) good local models;
c) areas of "low hanging fruit" for the future;
d) obstacles to collaboration (financial, legal, administrative/bureaucratic, people, cultural, attitudinal (ie. "not invented here", etc. )
e)success stories.

Will need to do a local demo that is fairly close ( I can do limited driving these days). One possibility is to do a Raleigh demo. I am on the community advisory committee for Nancy McFarlane -- my local city councilwoman who is running for reelection. She's very sharp. I was at a reception at her house today and mentioned I'd like to set something up to meet with her soon. She's fine with that. Just need to shape this thing more carefully before hitting her with a presentation.

Also hope to meet with Debra at the Justice Center soon. And once I get this pinned down, there are scads of people I can ask for feedback.

So, that's where I am now on this end of things. Guess I need to come up with a name -- even for the short term Will think on that. I'm lousy at what they call "wording".

Your thoughts, Christian?

My biggest challenge right now is shifting gears to focus on doing real "work work".

It's been a while and it all seems like a huge mountain to climb. I hope this blog will provide some structure. Will need to take some small steps each day.
Today's goal: arrange to meet with my friend Debra at the Justice Center.

Starting next week I will start doing research to sniff out 1) opportunities in the stimulus package and. 2) Golden Leaf RFP.

I liked John but wonder if he feels I am on another planet. It's a long way from the Land of Academia to community work; from Theoretical Science to social issues. Big gulf to bridge.