The State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is encouraging those interested in broadband-related technologies, infrastructure and deployment to apply for a second round of funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act program.

Approximately $4.8 billion is available to qualified applicants nationwide. The deadline to apply is March 15.

The funding is provided by the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the USDA's Rural Utilities Service.

Applications and information may be found at www.broadbandusa.gov.