USDA Community Connect Grants
USDA, Rural Utilities Service Telecommunications Program has announced the 2019 funding cycle Community Connect Grants. Grants are designed to provide financial assistance to provide broadband service in rural, economically challenged communities where broadband service does not currently exist. Grant funds may be used to: (1) deploy service at the Broadband Grant Speed to essential community facilities, rural residents, and rural businesses, (2) construct, acquire, or expand a community center, and (3) equip a community center that provides free access to service to community residents for at least two years. (Broadband Grant Speed is defined as a minimum data rate of twenty-five (25) megabits per second downstream and three (3) megabits per second upstream for both fixed and mobile service.)
Eligible Applicants: Most States and local governments, federally recognized Tribes, non-profits and for-profit corporations serving economically disadvantaged communities (with Low-Moderate Income percentages above 50 percent)
Minimum Grant Request: $100,000
Maximum Grant Request: $3 million
Match: 15 percent of requested grant amount
Deadline: April 15, 2019
Contact: Loan Origination and Approval Division, Telecommunications Program, 202-720-0800, community.connect@wdc.usda.gov
For further information or assistance in applying for funding opportunities, contact KLJ at 701-355-8400.
