About

What does this program do?

The grant program offers financial assistance to eligible applicants that will construct broadband networks that provide service on a community-oriented connectivity basis in rural areas. 

Who may apply for this program?

Eligible applicants include:

• State and local governments

• Federally recognized Tribes

• Nonprofits

• For-profit corporations

• Limited liability companies

What is an eligible area?

Rural areas that lack broadband service as defined in the most recent funding announcement are eligible.

How may the funds be used?

• The construction, acquisition, or leasing of facilities, spectrum, land or buildings used to deploy broadband service for:

° all residential and business customers located within the Proposed Funded Service Area

° all participating essential community facilities (such as public schools, fire stations, public libraries, and public safety stations)

• The cost of providing broadband service free of charge to the essential community facilities for 2 years

• Up to 10 percent of the grant may be used for the improvement, expansion, construction, or acquisition of a community center that provides online access to the public

Are there other requirements?

Other program requirements include:

• Documentation supporting the scoring criteria

• An executive summary of the proposed project

• Grantees must have legal authority to provide, construct, operate and maintain the proposed facilities or services

• Partnerships with other federal, state, local, private, and nonprofit entities are encouraged

• For additional details, see 7 CFR, 1739 Matching funds of at least 15 percent from non-federal sources are required and can be used for operating costs.

How do we get started?

• Application windows for this program are announced through the national office on a periodic basis.

• Program Resources are available online at rd.usda.gov (includes forms, guidance, certifications, etc.)