Broadband Planning and Implementation
The provision of high-speed broadband services can play a critical role in enhancing local government operations and community development efforts. Local governments can play a role assisting public institutions and private businesses, as well as local citizens, to gain access to reliable broadband service at affordable costs.
Such locally initiated actions can be undertaken under local authority to enhance economic development, improve distance learning opportunities, promote inter-jurisdictional communication, improve health care delivery, and to meet community members' requests for better access to the breadth of services available through broadband connectivity.
DOLA and the Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Fund program work collaboratively with the Colorado Broadband Office to fund eligible middle mile open access projects. For a comprehensive list of State of Colorado funding opportunities available for broadband projects, please visit the Colorado Broadband Office Funding Opportunities web page.
Who Should Apply
Energy/Impact Assistance Fund grants are directed by statute to communities that are economically or socially impacted by the development of energy and mineral resources. Grants are also awarded based on financial need, among other review criteria. Generally, the majority of grant funding is directed to smaller and more rural communities that lack sufficient broadband service.
Energy Impact Grants for broadband are made available to support two general areas for middle mile open access projects – planning and infrastructure.
The Application Process
Applications for any of the current Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Fund (EIAF) funding opportunities may be submitted as part of the regularly planned EIAF cycles.
In order to be accepted into an EIAF grant cycle, applicants must contact their Department of Local Affairs Regional Manager prior to submitting any application and must be "ready to go." Regional Managers can also answer any questions regarding preparation for your application.
- Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund Grant Program Guidelines
- Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund Grant Application - Download Application in PDF or Download Application in a Word document
- Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund Grant Budget - Financials Template
- Severance Loan Calculator
- 2024 Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund Grant County Impact Scores
Contact Information
Initial Interest
For direct inquiries regarding initial program interest, contact your Regional Manager.
Program Contact
Greg Etl
greg.etl@state.co.us
970-380-4065