Gigabit voucher scheme for the Rural UK
About the Rural Gigabit Voucher Scheme
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme has the strategic objective of increasing gigabit-capable coverage across the UK. Starting in March 2018, the programme launched the first wave of its programme, designed to encourage broadband service providers to build full-fibre networks in the UK for small to medium-sized businesses and nearby residents when part of a group scheme. The £67m fund was successfully used over two years and has now closed for new applications.
In May 2019, the programme launched its second wave of funding to support the cost of installing gigabit-capable broadband to homes and businesses in rural areas of the UK when part of a group scheme.
The purpose of the scheme is to speed up the deployment of full fibre in rural areas of the UK and to encourage suppliers to invest in gigabit capable services. The scheme provides micro-grants in the form of vouchers to support the cost of new connectivity. The voucher is a benefit to eligible homes and small to medium-sized businesses in group schemes, where a group is two premises or more. As the scheme is supplier-led, suppliers have a central role in aggregating demand for the scheme amongst their customers. Registered suppliers for the scheme will receive online access to voucher applications, guidance documents, marketing materials and the opportunity to manage their own profile on the scheme website. Properties can claim up to £4500. Link to the BDUK website below (we are registered as Runfibre Ltd gov.uk/government/publications/gigabit-broadband-voucher-scheme-information
