Rural Utilities Service

Description

The Community-Oriented Connectivity Broadband Grant Program (Community Connect Grant Program) is designed to provide financial assistance to furnish broadband service in rural, economically-challenged communities where such service does not currently exist. Grant funds may be utilized to: (1) deploy broadband transmission service to critical community facilities, rural residents, and rural businesses, (2) construct, acquire, or expand a community center, and (3) equip and operate a community center that provides free access to broadband services to community residents for at least two years. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to entities serving communities of up to 20,000 inhabitants to ensure rural consumers enjoy the same quality and range of telecommunications service as are available in urban and suburban communities.

Who can apply

• State governments
• County governments
• City or township governments
• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
• Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)
• For-profit organizations other than small businesses
• Small businesses

Contact

Long Chen <br/>Broadband Division <br/>Phone 202-690-4673
community.connect@wdc.usda.gov