USDA is accepting applications for grants to fund broadband infrastructure projects in unserved rural communities. 

“E-connectivity is essential to the economic vitality and quality of life in rural communities,” said Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett. “Investing in broadband can strengthen rural economic growth and improve critical access to jobs, education, health care and social services.” 

USDA is accepting applications through May 14 in the Community Connect program. Grants from $100,000 to $3 million are available to state and local governments, federally-recognized tribes, nonprofits and for-profit corporations. Applicants must be able to provide a 15% match on the desired grant amount.

The funds must be used to provide broadband service at a minimum rate-of-data transmission of 25 megabits downstream and 3 megabits upstream, which is the speed benchmark that the Federal Communications Commission has officially adopted for broadband connectivity. Awardees must use USDA funding to offer free broadband service to all critical community facilities in their proposed service areas for two years and provide a community center with free broadband service for two years. 

Examples of past Community Connect Grant successes include: 

For more details on this grant opportunity, see page 11494 of the March 15 Federal Register. 

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.

Source: USDA Rural Development