Broadband Universal Service Obligation (USO)

Ofcom are expected to launch the Broadband Universal Service Obligation in March 2020.

What is the Broadband USO?

From March 2020, residents and businesses in the UK will have the legal right to request a decent and affordable broadband connection. A decent connection has been defined by the Government as receiving download speeds of at least 10 Mbps and upload speed of 1 Mbps.

Residents and businesses can access up to £3,400 to help cover the connection costs of getting a faster broadband service subject to eligibility requirements.

Customers will be able to request a Broadband USO connection directly from one of the designated universal service providers – BT and KCOM.

More information is available on the Ofcom website.

Digital Drive – SME support & funding

Digital Drive is a £4m initiative that aims to help SMEs in County Durham to maximise their growth potential and sustainability through digital technology.

The initiative offers*:

One to one business support to help with strategic business planning, digital marketing and guidance on digital technologies that could be beneficial;
Fully funded masterclasses and conferences covering topics such as digital transformation, digital content and search engine optimisation;
Digital Health Check to assess your online presence, review your digital skills and provide advice on the best use of technology for your business;
Grant funds of up to 40% to support digital consultancy projects; equipment that will help your business to improve through the use of digital technology; website, software or app development; or the installation of broadband infrastructure.

*All support and funding is subject to eligibility criteria.

Digital Drive is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Business Durham, which works on behalf of Durham County Council, and private investment. The initiative forms part of the wider Digital Durham initiative to improve broadband speeds for residents and businesses across the North East.

Interested in finding out more

Contact Digital Drive to register for support, events and funding opportunities, through one of the contact methods below:

Website: www.digitaldrivedurham.co.uk

Email: info@digitaldrivedurham.co.uk

Phone: 0191 389 8458