EUPConnect Collaborative School and Libraries Network: 470# 230018359

  •  

    EUPConnect Collaborative School and Libraries Network RFP Erate: 470# 230018359

    This Request for Proposal (RFP) is issued by the Eastern Upper Peninsula E-Rate Consortium (EUP) to 
    explore high speed broadband access service offerings between area schools and public and Tribal 
    libraries, and in the near future additional anchor institutions, including healthcare facilities, Township,
    Tribal and County facilities. By releasing this RFP, EUP is looking for the overall most cost-effective 
    solution to create an E-rate eligible network that will fulfill the E-rate Modernization Orders’ goals and 
    help to close the digital divide for our students and library patrons. Collaborative responses are highly 
    encouraged.


    This network will begin by accelerating learning in our schools and in our community libraries within our 
    vast, rural EUP by providing robust and resilient connectivity. It is the intent of the EUP to apply for Erate funding to align with newly emerging broadband infrastructure funding opportunities, which will support public-private partnerships to ensure equitable digital connectivity throughout Chippewa, 
    Mackinac and Luce Counties.

    These infrastructure partnership funding opportunities include but are not 
    limited to:


    - Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN)
    - Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program
    - USDA ReConnect
    - Tribal Broadband Programs

    The image below is an overview of the conceived EUP Regional network to interconnect schools and 
    libraries throughout the region:

    Concept Image - EUPConnect Collaborative School and Libraries Network