The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), created in 1978, is the President's principal adviser on telecommunications and information policy issues, and in this role frequently works with other Executive Branch agencies to develop and present the Administration's position on these issues.
In addition to representing the Executive Branch in both domestic and international telecommunications and information policy activities, NTIA also manages the Federal use of spectrum; performs cutting-edge telecommunications research and engineering, including resolving technical telecommunications issues for the Federal government and private sector; and administers infrastructure and public telecommunications facilities grants.
The telecommunications and information revolution is bringing dramatic growth and change to the nation's economic, social, and political life. As a result, our fundamental mission is to promote market-based policies which lower prices to consumers and encourage innovation, while harnessing the resources of the Federal government to support spectrum-based technologies which enhance efficiency and productivity.
NTIA Line Offices
The Office of Spectrum Management (OSM) formulates and establishes plans and policies that ensure the effective, efficient, and equitable use of the spectrum both nationally and internationally. Through the development of long range spectrum plans, the OSM is prepared to address future Federal government spectrum requirements, including public safety operations and the coordination and registration of Federal government satellite networks. The OSM also satisfies the frequency assignment needs of the Federal agencies and provides spectrum certification for new Federal agency radio communication systems.
The Office of Policy Analysis and Development (OPAD) is the domestic policy division of the NTIA. OPAD supports NTIA's role as principal adviser to the Executive Branch and the Secretary of Commerce on telecommunications and information policies by conducting research and analysis and preparing policy recommendations. The domestic policy office generates policies that promote innovation, competition, and economic growth for the benefit of American businesses and consumers.
The Office of International Affairs (OIA) develops and implements policies to enhance U.S. companies' ability to compete globally in the information technology and communications (ICT) sectors. In consultation with other U.S. agencies and the U.S. private sector, OIA participates in international and regional fora to promote policies that open ICT markets and encourage competition.
The Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) is the research and engineering laboratory of the NTIA. ITS provides technical support to NTIA in advancing telecommunications and information infrastructure development, enhancing domestic competition, improving U.S. telecommunications trade opportunities, and promoting more efficient and effective use of the radio spectrum. ITS also serves as a principal Federal resource for investigating the telecommunications challenges of other Federal agencies, state and local governments, private corporations and associations, and international organizations.
The Office of Telecommunications and Information Applications (OTIA) administers two programs: the Technology Opportunities Program (TOP) and the Public Telecommunications Facilities Program (PTFP). From 1994 to 2004, TOP provided matching grants to non-profit organizations and state and local governments across the United States to demonstrate innovative applications of advanced telecommunications and information technology. PTFP awards grants to public broadcasting and other noncommercial entities for the purchase of telecommunications equipment.
Provides a direct link to the Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management.
NTIA Red Book (Click on book)
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Link to NTIA Federal Long-range Spectrum Plan, e.g., "The Orange Book"
NTIA WRC Agenda Items
