SURF - Subsidized Universal Rural Fiber

About the Project

This is being accomplished through providing fiber internet access direct to the homes and businesses in Hoonah, where possible. Households that cannot be reached with fiber will have the option to be connected wirelessly with equivalent broadband speed. The subsidy will be available for eligible households and businesses within the community of Hoonah.

Program Milestones/Updates as of 8/1/2025

• Program Funds Awarded
• Initial Construction - COMPLETED
  • Aerial Fiber Hung
• Running Fiber Drops to Existing Customers – IN PROGRESS
• Registration of Eligible Households/Businesses – IN PROGRESS
• Subsidy Begins – Date TBD
• Subsidy Ends – Date TBD

Eligibility Criteria

For this program, eligible households are defined as any household that includes at least one member of a Native American Tribe, or any household that actively supports, houses, or provides care for tribal members within the community of Hoonah.

You May Qualify If:

• Direct Tribal Membership: Any household member is enrolled in a federally recognized tribe
• Family Connections: You are married to, related to, or partnered with a tribal member
• Caregiving Support: You provide care, housing, or support to tribal elders, children, or family members
• Educational Support: You tutor, mentor, or provide educational services to tribal students
• Employment Support: You employ tribal members or provide job training/placement services
• Healthcare Services: You provide medical, mental health, or wellness services to tribal community members
• Community Services: You operate businesses, nonprofits, or services that primarily serve the tribal community
• Cultural Preservation: You support tribal cultural activities, language preservation, or traditional practices
• Foster Care: You provide foster care or guardianship to tribal children
• Economic Support: Your household contributes to the economic stability of tribal individuals or families
• Transportation Services: You provide transportation services that benefit tribal community members
• Childcare Services: You provide childcare or after-school programs for tribal families

The key principle: If your household in any way supports, benefits, or contributes to the well-being of tribal members in the Hoonah community, you likely qualify for this program. When in doubt, please register - we'll work with you to determine eligibility.