Co-financing of the Federal Broadband Expansion Program

The co-financing program of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia complements the federal broadband expansion funding program to close remaining profitability gaps for private operators using state funds. With a funding rate generally ranging from 90% up to a maximum of 100% (minus the federal share) and a maximum grant of up to EUR 15 million, projects that establish high-performance fiber optic infrastructures in underserved regions are supported. Funding is provided particularly for equipping empty conduits with unlit fiber optic cables, civil engineering works, as well as the joint installation of empty conduits during concurrently planned earthworks. The program aims to build comprehensive broadband access and thereby enhance municipal development potentials in both rural and urban areas.

Eligible for funding are local authorities in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, primarily municipalities, districts, and municipal associations. A prerequisite for state funding is a positive approval notice from the federal broadband expansion program. Applications can be submitted continuously to the respective district government; the completed co-financing application form, the federal approval notice, and proof of the procurement procedure must be submitted. The combination of federal and state funds creates planning security and enables accelerated implementation of civil engineering and fiber optic projects. Municipal decision-makers are thus empowered to build future infrastructure that sustainably supports the digital transformation in North Rhine-Westphalia.