State and federal funding is available to support:
- Broadband deployment
- Adoption
- Digital literacy planning and implementation
Funding programs that have an annual cycle will display the current fiscal year open and close dates.
Search for available broadband funding programs
| State or Federal | Program Status | Program Name | Administering Agency | Program Division | Purpose | Funding Purpose | Program Purpose | Available Funding | Funding | Type of Award | Size of Award | Number of Awards | Match | Match Requirement | Funding Cycles | Application Due/Filing Window Closes | Dates of Awards and Period of Performance | Eligible Applicants | Eligible Entities | Eligible Areas | Eligible Costs | Eligibility notes | Minimum Speeds | Program Contact | Website | Link to Application Site (and to any guidelines) | Key Links and notes and sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State | In development | CPUC Broadband Loan Loss Reserve Fund | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | The Broadband Loan Loss Reserve Fund supports the development of public broadband networks by providing credit enhancement for local agencies and non-profits to finance broadband networks. | Infrastructure | To provide credit enhancement to assist local entities and non-profits to secure private broadband financing such as bonds. | $750,000,000 | $750 million; $175 million for fiscal year 2023-2024 | Grant | TBD | TBD | No | N/A | CPUC intends to offer funding each calendar year three times in three separate four-month cycles. Commission Staff will publish dates and timelines. The CPUC will accept applications three times per calendar year beginning and ending on the first seven days of a funding cycle. Each funding cycle will appropriate a subset of that calendar year’s available LLP funds equally, including any unawarded funds from prior years. | Application window is March 12, 2024 through April 9, 2024. | Local Agencies, nonprofits | Local agencies, as defined by Gov. Code 53167 (e), including sovereign tribal governments. | N/A | Costs related to the financing broadband infrastructure deployment by a local government or non-profit agency, including, but not limited to, the payment of costs of debt issuance, obtaining credit enhancement, and establishing and funding of reserves for the payment of principal and interest on debt issued by fund participants. | 100 Mbps download and upload, with 100/20 Mbps considered in areas where symmetrical speeds may be impractical. | Broadband.loanloss@cpuc.ca.gov | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/broadband-implementation-for-california/loan-loss-reserve-fund | Requirements and Guidelines: https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PublishedDocs/Published/G000/M520/K655/520655737.PDF | Program Fact Sheet: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/broadband-implementation-for-california/loan-loss-reserve/documents/llr-factsheet-pd-update-0126.pdf FAQs: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/broadband-implementation-for-california/loan-loss-faq-2022-08-17.pdf Most recent ruling: https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/SearchRes.aspx?DocFormat=ALL&DocID=520736029 |
||
| State | Open | California Advanced Services Fund: Broadband Adoption Account | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | The Broadband Adoption Account provides grants to increase publicly available or after-school broadband access and digital inclusion, such as grants for digital literacy training programs and public education to communities with limited broadband adoption. | Adoption, Digital Equity | To provide broadband adoption or digital equity grants for digital literacy and broadband access projects. | $20,024,000 | $20.024 million for fiscal year 2023-2024 | Grant | $150,000 maximum in previous funding cycles | Yes | 15% | Applications may be submitted at any time. However, staff will consider applications submitted on or before each deadline listed below as a batch, until all funds have been awarded. Application Cycle Deadlines: January 1, 2024; July 1, 2024; January 1, 2025; And every January 1 and July 1 thereafter, until funds are exhausted. | Application Cycle Deadlines: January 1, 2024; July 1, 2024; January 1, 2025 | Governments, Libraries, Education, Senior Centers, nonprofits, Community Organizations | Local governments, senior centers, schools, public libraries, nonprofit organizations, and community-based organizations with programs to increase publicly available or after school broadband access and digital inclusion, such as digital literacy training programs are eligible to apply for grants. | All | i. Education and outreach efforts (including travel, up to 10% of grant amount) and materials. ii. Acceptable computing devices (does not include smartphones) within budgetary limits and inclusive of computer. iii. Software (inclusive of licensing for online platforms). iv. Printers. v. Network routers, switches, modems, and cabling deployed for the purpose of establishing a space for broadband access or digital literacy that connects to an existing in-building broadband network such as Wi-Fi (inside network). vi. Mobile hotspots, only when no inside network is available. vii. Provision of technical support for the installation of equipment subsidized through this program or technical support for the equipment for the duration of the project subsidized through this program. viii. Desks and chairs to furnish a designated space for training/access. ix. Gathering, preparing, creating and distributing digital literacy curriculum (for Digital Literacy projects). x. Digital literacy instructors or staffing for monitoring the designated space or staffing for call centers. xi. Reimbursement for administrative costs is limited to administrative costs representing 15% or less of the overall proposed budget. | CASF_Adoption@cpuc.ca.gov | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/california-advanced-services-fund/casf-adoption-account | Overview of Application Process: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-adoption-and-access/adoption_account/informatioN/Applying-for-a-grant-from-the-casf-adoption-account.pdf | Draft CASF budget for FY2023-24: https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.cpuc.ca.gov%2FPublishedDocs%2FPublished%2FG000%2FM507%2FK986%2F507986944.docx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK List of Proposed Projects: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-adoption-and-access/adoption_account/information/r10_application_list.pdf | ||||
| Federal | Open | Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program | U.S. Department of Agriculture | Rural Utilities Service | This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial, or business undertakings. | Deployment | Direct loans and grants for the construction and improvement of connectivity to essential community facilities. | TBD | TBD | Grants, Loans | The maximum amount of a guaranteed loan is $100 million | N/A | Yes | Variable | Rolling applications | Rolling | N/A | Governments, nonprofits, Tribal | Public bodies, community-based non-profit corporations, federally recognized tribes. | Rural areas including cities, villages, townships, and towns including federally recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data. | The purchase, construction, and improvement of essential community facilities, the purchase of equipment, and related project expenses. Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment are considered essential community facilities. | N/A | Contact the applicable state office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/about-rd/state-offices | https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities/community-facilities-direct-loan-grant-program | https://www.rd.usda.gov/files/508_RD_RHS_CF_DirectLoanGuidanceBook_090919.pdf | Note: The term “facility” refers to both the physical structure financed and the resulting service. https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities/community-facilities-guaranteed-loan-program | |
| Federal | Annual | PIH Capital Fund | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development | Public and Indian Housing | The Capital Fund program provides grant funds to PHAs [Public Housing Authorities] annually via a formula. For computer internet connectivity, PHAs have used Capital Funds to update buildings to support broadband internet and Wi-Fi. | Deployment | Installing and upgrading broadband infrastructure; purchasing and installing Wi-Fi extenders, routers, etc. | TBD | TBD | Grants | N/A | N/A | No | N/A | Applicants should contact their Public Housing Agency for information. | Awaiting final certification review | N/A | Governments | Public Housing Agencies | Nationwide | Eligible costs include modernizing buildings to support broadband internet and installing or upgrading broadband infrastructure—cables, fiber optics, or wiring, including in individual units—and purchasing and installing such equipment as directional antennae, satellite/cellular receivers, Wi-Fi extenders, routers, hotspots, and modems. | N/A | David Fleischman, the Director of the Office of Capital Improvements, can be reached at: (202) 402-2071. | https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/ph/capfund | 2023 Capital Fund Processing Information: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/ph/capfund/2023pi | COVID-19 funding increased the Capital Fund and expanded its uses related to the internet. Capital Fund Guidance for FY2023 Grant Awards: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/FY%202023%20CFP%20Processing%20Guidance.pdf FY2023 Award Amounts: https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hud.gov%2Fsites%2Fdfiles%2FPIH%2Fdocuments%2FPHA-Level%2520and%2520Dev-Level%2520Funding%2520Report_FINAL.xlsx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK Accessing and Completing the Capital Fund B&U Certification in IMS/PIC: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/CapFund%20cert%20instructions%20FY%202024.pdf |
|
| State | Open | Tribal Technical Assistance | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | California Tribes interested in technical assistance to pursue improved communications (for example, voice and broadband) to serve Tribal communities can apply for these grants to develop market studies, feasibility studies and business plans. The California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) has funds available to support Tribal broadband needs and increase access. | Planning | Grants to assist California Tribes in developing market studies, feasibilities studies, and/or business plans, to improve internet and communications systems. | $5,000,000 | $5 million | Grants | Up to $150,000 | No | N/A | Applications may be submitted at any time. However, CD will consider applications submitted on or before each deadline listed below as a batch and quarterly for processing. October 1 January 1 April 1 July 1 | Quarterly | Tribal | California Tribes with or without federal recognition, that demonstrate Tribal leadership support are eligible for technical assistance grants. | Reservations, trust lands and surrounding areas | Market studies, feasibilities studies, and/or business plans which support Tribes in their pursuit of improved communications. | N/A | Tribal_Tech_Assist@cpuc.ca.gov | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/california-advanced-services-fund/tribal-technical-assistance | Program FAQs: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/tribal-technical-assistance-grant/web-page-docs/faqs-tribal-technical-assistance.pdf Fact sheet: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/tribal-technical-assistance-grant/web-page-docs/casf-tribal-technical-assistance-grants-one-sheet.pdf | ||||
| Federal | Open | Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program | U.S. Department of Commerce | National Telecommunications and Information Administration | Program directed to tribal governments to be used for broadband deployment on tribal lands, as well as for telehealth, distance learning, broadband affordability, and digital inclusion. | Deployment, Adoption, Utilization | Broadband deployment, adoption, and affordability on tribal lands. | $980,000,000 | $980 million | Grants | Minimum and maximum: $1,000,000 to $50,000,000 | 200 | No | No | One Time Grant | March 22, 2024 by 11:59 p.m. Eastern. | Tribal | (i) a Tribal Government; (ii) a Tribal College or University; (iii) the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands on behalf of the Native Hawaiian Community, including Native Hawaiian Education Programs; (iv) a Tribal organization; or (v) an Alaska Native Corporation. Also, a consortium or a group of multiple Tribal partners (each of which must be an eligible entity). Eligible entities include eligible Native Corporations.(3) On Sept. 24, 2021, EDA published a new rule (4) to extend EDA Tribal eligibility to include for-profit entities that are wholly owned by and established for the benefit of a Tribe. | Tribal lands. Tribal anchor institutions. | For deployment: costs of construction, including infrastructure for backhaul, middle, and last-mile networks; long-term leases; planning and feasibility studies (up to 1%); engineering and network design; performance bonds; workforce training. For adoption and use: Acquiring equipment and networking capability; providing affordable programs, digital training, and technology support; facilitating access to services via public computer centers and public Wi-Fi networks and in public housing, schools, libraries, and other anchor institutions; needs assessments. (5) | The Applicant should take care to ensure they are either applying as a single entity, or as part of a single consortium application. Applicants may only be part of one application regardless of type | TBD | TBCPNOFO2@ntia.gov | https://www.fcc.gov/general/e-rate-schools-libraries-usf-program | Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program | National Telecommunications and Information Administration (ntia.gov) | Funding from the IIJA was added to the TBCP existing NTIA Program. This additional funding could augment the available funding for applications already received or the NTIA could establish an additional program. NTIA is coordinating with Treasury to allow Tribal Governments to indicate their interest in receiving funds from the $10B Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund.(2) (1) NTIA, "Tribal Nations," https://broadbandusa.ntia.doc.gov/resources/tribal-nations. (2) Federal Register, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/09/24/2021-20633/permitting-additional-eligible-tribal-entities?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term= (3) Federal Register NOFO, pp. 31-33. |
|
| State | Open | California Advanced Services Fund: Broadband Public Housing Account | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | The Broadband Public Housing Account provides funding for inside wiring projects that will offer broadband access to low income communities at no cost to residents of those communities. | Adoption, Digital Equity, Infrastructure | To provide free broadband access in California publicly supported housing and low-income communities. | $15,000,000 | $15 million for fiscal year 2023-2024 | Grant | $150,000 maximum in previous funding cycles | No | No | Applications may be submitted at any time. However, staff will consider applications submitted on or before each deadline listed below as a batch. Deadlines: January 1, 2024 July 1, 2024 And every January 1 and July 1 thereafter, until funds are exhausted. | Application Cycle Deadlines: January 1, 2024 July 1, 2024 | Grantees shall start projects within 30 days upon grant approval and complete the project execution within a 12-month timeframe. | Publicly-Supported Housing Developments, Farmworker Housing, and other housing developments serving low-income communities. | Publicly supported housing developments and farmworker housing are eligible to apply for grants. Low-income communities that otherwise meet eligibility requirements and comply with program requirements established by CPUC may also apply, including other housing developments or mobile home parks with low-income residents. | Publicly served and farmworker housing developments that do not currently have access to qualified broadband service of at least 25/3 Mbps. | All broadband networking equipment (hardware and software), wireless access points, wireless bridge(s), modem(s), switches, router(s), and firewall(s) for network security but not personal computers, laptops, handheld or human interface devices. Low voltage contracting work including the installation of inside wiring, network cabinets, NEMA boxes, conduits, patch panels, cable tray or ladders, and other cabling requirements to provide power and connectivity for the broadband network equipment funded as part of the project. Broadband network engineering and designing documentation. Hardware warranty of broadband network equipment as needed. Installation, provisioning, and configuration labor costs at the Minimum Point of Entry (MPOE), MDFs (Main Distribution Frame), IDFs (Intermediate Distribution Frame), WAPs (Wireless Access Point), Wireless Bridges such as P2P and P2MP (Point to Point and Point to Multi-point) Radios, Switched Ethernet, and xDSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modems. Taxes, shipping and insurance costs (if applicable) that are directly related to broadband network equipment deployed under the BPHA. | Major rehabilitation, demolition or construction work will not be funded. | CPUC_Housing@cpuc.ca.gov | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/california-advanced-services-fund/casf-public-housing-account | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-adoption-and-access/bpha/bpha-application-process-overview.pdf | Final Ruling: https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PublishedDocs/Published/G000/M479/K637/479637749.PDF Rules and Guidelines: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-adoption-and-access/bpha/bpha-guidelines.pdf Draft CASF budget for FY2023-24: https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.cpuc.ca.gov%2FPublishedDocs%2FPublished%2FG000%2FM507%2FK986%2F507986944.docx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK |
||
| Federal | Opening March 22, 2024 | ReConnect | U.S. Department of Agriculture | Rural Utilities Service | The Broadband ReConnect Program furnishes loans , grants, and loan/grant combinations to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas. | Deployment | Infrastructure buildout in rural areas. | • 100% Grant (for Alaska Native Corporations, Tribal Governments, Colonias, Persistent Poverty Areas and Socially Vulnerable Communities): Up to $350 million available, maximum award amount is $35 million • 100% Loan: Up to $150 million available, maximum award amount is $50 million (with an interest rate set at a fixed 2%) • Combo: Up to $300 million available, maximum award amount is $25 million for the loan and $25 million for the grant (interest rate set at US Treasury Rate) • 100% Grant: Up to $150 million available, maximum award amount is $35 million (25% match required) • 100% Grant (Projects serving areas where 90% of households lack sufficient access to broadband): Up to $200 million available, maximum award amount is $25 million | • 100% Grant (for Alaska Native Corporations, Tribal Governments, Colonias, Persistent Poverty Areas and Socially Vulnerable Communities): Up to $350 million available, maximum award amount is $35 million • 100% Loan: Up to $150 million available, maximum award amount is $50 million (with an interest rate set at a fixed 2%) • Combo: Up to $300 million available, maximum award amount is $25 million for the loan and $25 million for the grant (interest rate set at US Treasury Rate) • 100% Grant: Up to $150 million available, maximum award amount is $35 million (25% match required) • 100% Grant (Projects serving areas where 90% of households lack sufficient access to broadband): Up to $200 million available, maximum award amount is $25 million | Grants, Loans | Prior maximum amounts: for 100% grants $25 million, for 100% grants to Tribal Governments or Socially Vulnerable Communities $35 million, for grant-loan combinations $50 million, for 100% loans $50 million | 105 | Varies by Program Product | Variable | Varies Annually | Application window opens March 22, 2024 | N/A | Companies, nonprofits, Governments, Tribal | Cooperatives; nonprofits; mutual associations; state and local governments and their subdivisions; a territory or possession of the U.S.; federally recognized Tribes. | Projects that are proposing to build in areas where at least 50 percent of the households in each proposed service area are not receiving service of at least 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream will receive 25 points. | Award funds can be used to fund the construction or improvement of broadband facilities, the acquisition of an existing system (up to 40 percent of the total requested award), and reasonable pre-application expenses (up to five percent of the total requested award). | 100/100 Mbps | Laurel Leverrier, Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Program, Rural Utilities Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), email laurel.leverrier@usda.gov, telephone: (202) 720-9554. | https://www.usda.gov/reconnect | FY2022 Program Guide: https://www.rd.usda.gov/files/ReConnect_Program_Application_Guide.pdf Program Fact Sheet: https://www.rd.usda.gov/sites/default/files/usda_rus_reconnectfactsheet.pdf | Round 5 TBD | |
| State | Open | California Advanced Services Fund: Line Extension Program | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | The Line Extension Program awards infrastructure grants to an individual household and/or property owner to offset the costs of connecting a household or property to an existing or proposed facility-based broadband provider. | Infrastructure | Grants to offset the costs of connecting a household or property to an existing or proposed broadband provider. | $688,000 | $688,000 for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 | Grant | A maximum of $500 for Fixed Wireless in previous funding cycles A maximum of $9,300 for Wireline installations in previous funding cycles | No | No | Rolling | Rolling | Individuals | Customer residing at the location to be served. All recipients of the LEP grant must meet the income-based requirements. | Location lacking access to a broadband service connection | Costs of connecting the eligible applicant to existing or new facilities-based internet providers | CASFLineExtensionProgram@cpuc.ca.gov | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/california-advanced-services-fund/casf-line-extension-program | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-infrastructure-and-market-analysis/line-extension-program/lep-rules-appendix-extracted-from-d1904022.pdf | Application Requirements: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/casf-infrastructure-and-market-analysis/line-extension-program/lep-rules-appendix-extracted-from-d1904022.pdf Draft CASF budget for FY2023-24: https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.cpuc.ca.gov%2FPublishedDocs%2FPublished%2FG000%2FM507%2FK986%2F507986944.docx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK |
||||
| Federal | Annual | E-Rate | Federal Communications Commission | Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) | The FCC's E-Rate program makes telecommunications and information services more affordable for schools and libraries by discounting telecommunications, internet access, and internal connections. | Deployment, Adoption | Broadband connections and equipment purchasing support for schools and libraries. | $4,768,000,000 | Determined annually, $4.768 billion cap for FY2023 | Subsidy | 20-90% discount | N/A | N/A | N/A | Annually | March 28, 2024 | N/A | Education, Tribal, Governments, Libraries | Eligible schools, school districts, libraries, and tribal libraries, or a consortium of such. | There are no geographic restrictions or eligibility requirements for this program. | Specific eligible costs are published each year, but generally include data transmission services, internet access, internal connections, managed internal broadband services, and basic maintenance of internal connections. | N/A | (888) 203-8100 | https://www.fcc.gov/general/e-rate-schools-libraries-usf-program | FY2023 Public Notice: https://www.fundsforlearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/FY2023-E-rate-Funding-Cap-4.77-Billion.pdf | ||
| Federal | Annual | Rural Health Care Program - Telecommunications Program | Federal Communications Commission | Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) | The Telecommunications (Telecom) Program provides reduced rates to rural health care providers (HCPs) for telecommunications and voice services for the use of telemedicine and telehealth. Eligible services are discounted at the difference in cost between urban and rural areas in the state. | Adoption | Provides discounts for voice and data services to healthcare providers. | $682,361,586 | $682 million available for FY2023 (combined with Healthcare Connect Fund) | Subsidy | Determined based on the differential between urban and rural pricing | N/A | No | N/A | Annually | May 1, 2024 | N/A | Nonprofits, Healthcare | Non-profit or public entities located in rural areas that are one of the following types of facilities: teaching hospitals, medical schools, local health departments and agencies, community mental health centers, nonprofit hospitals, rural health clinics, skilled nursing facilities, healthcare provider consortiums. | Rural areas | Telecommunications services. | N/A | 800-453-1546, rhc-assist@usac.org | https://www.usac.org/rural-health-care/telecommunications-program/ | https://www.usac.org/rural-health-care/telecommunications-program/step-4-submit-funding-requests/ | On March 8, 2023, the FCC released FCC Order DA 23-189, extending the deadline for the FY2023 Application Filing Window to May 1, 2023: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-23-189A1.pdf On May 24, the FCC issued a public notice confirming the unused $211.5 million in funding from FY2022 will carry forward to FY2023: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-23-440A1.pdf Information for FY2024 RHC Program Applicants: https://www.usac.org/wp-content/uploads/rural-health-care/documents/handouts/RHC-Program-Information-for-FY2024.pdf |
|
| Federal | Annual | Rural Health Care Program - Healthcare Connect Fund | Federal Communications Commission | Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) | The Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) Program provides a 65% discount on eligible broadband connectivity expenses for eligible rural healthcare providers (HCPs). | Deployment, Adoption | Provides financial assistance to eligible healthcare providers for broadband services. | $682,361,586 | $682 million annually, adjusted for inflation (combined with Telecommunications Program) | Subsidy | 65% discount on eligible expenses | N/A | No | N/A | Annually | May 1, 2024 | N/A | Nonprofits, Healthcare | Non-profit or public entities located in rural areas that are one of the following types of facilities: teaching hospitals, medical schools, local health departments and agencies, community mental health centers, nonprofit hospitals, rural health clinics, skilled nursing facilities, healthcare provider consortiums. | Rural areas | Broadband services, network equipment, and healthcare provider constructed and owned networks. | N/A | 800-453-1546, rhc-assist@usac.org | https://www.usac.org/rural-health-care/healthcare-connect-fund-program/ | https://www.usac.org/rural-health-care/healthcare-connect-fund-program/step-4-submit-funding-requests/ | On March 8, 2023, the FCC released FCC Order DA 23-189, extending the deadline for the FY2023 Application Filing Window to May 1, 2023: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-23-189A1.pdf On May 24, the FCC issued a public notice confirming the unused $211.5 million in funding from FY2022 will carry forward to FY2023: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-23-440A1.pdf Information for FY2024 RHC Applicants: https://www.usac.org/wp-content/uploads/rural-health-care/documents/handouts/RHC-Program-Information-for-FY2024.pdf |
|
| State | Open | California LifeLine | CPUC, in conjunction with FCC | Communications Division | To offset the costs of wireless and home phone service | Adoption | To offset the costs of wireless and home phone service. | Updated annually | Updated annually | Subsidy | Monthly service connection discount of up to $17.90; may be combined with federal subsidy of $9.25. | No | No | Annual renewal | Continuous | Income-qualified individuals | Income-qualified individuals or individuals that participate in other qualifying programs. | N/A | Monthly service connections and activation fees | http://www.californialifeline.com/ | |||||||
| State | Open | California Teleconnect Fund | California Public Utilities Commission | Communications Division | The California Teleconnect Fund (CTF) program provides a 50% discount on advanced communication services (including Internet access and broadband services) to qualifying K–12 schools, libraries, community colleges, government-owned hospitals/health clinics, and community-based organizations. | Adoption, Utilization | Provides 50% discount on broadband and internet service for qualifying schools, libraries, community colleges, government hospitals/clinics, community-based organizations, and other entities. | $108,296,000 | $108.296 million | Subsidy | 50% of approved service costs | N/A | No | N/A | Rolling | Rolling | Libraries, Education, Tribal, Governments, Healthcare | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/california-teleconnect-fund/ctf_eligible_entities.xlsx | The CTF Program categorizes applicants (and participants) into seven distinct groups: schools, libraries, community colleges, government hospitals/clinics, CBOs, healthcare CBOs, and 2-1-1 providers. Each category has different eligibility requirements. | Internet access and broadband services | The CPUC requires all existing California Teleconnect Fund (CTF) participants to periodically recertify their eligibility. | Entities participating in the CTF Program should email ctfhelp@cpuc.ca.gov to update their contact information in order to receive important information and notifications on maintaining eligibility and discounts. For general application inquiries before submitting an application, please direct them to CTFHelp@cpuc.ca.gov or call Amy Lau at (415) 696-7310. If you have submitted an application and are inquiring about its status, please direct them to CTFHelp@cpuc.ca.gov or call Ligia Serpas at (415) 703-4332. For participant recertification inquiries, please direct them to CTFHelp@cpuc.ca.gov or call Joanne Leung at (415) 703-1149. Carriers and service providers can direct inquiries to CTFClaims@cpuc.ca.gov or contact Wylen Lai at (415) 703-2616. | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/ctf | https://ecap.cpuc.ca.gov/s/ | https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/divisions/communications-division/documents/california-teleconnect-fund/ctf_applicant_and_participant_guidebook.pdf | ||
| Federal | Awaiting Rules | Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program | U.S. Department of Commerce | National Telecommunications and Information Administration | $1.25 billion discretionary grant program distributed via annual grant programs over 5 years to implement digital equity projects. | Adoption, Utilization | To expand access and adoption of broadband among vulnerable populations and others. | $1,250,000,000 | $1.25 billion | Grants | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | One Time Grant | TBD | Annual funding cycles for 5 years | Governments, nonprofits, companies | Public and private entities other than those that receive allocations from the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program. | NTIA will prioritize projects that represent geographically diverse regions. | Digital inclusion activities; digital navigators; workforce training programs; low-cost devices; and deployment of public broadband. | Must coordinate with state as part of the application process/materials | N/A | Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth, National Telecommunications & Information Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20230, Phone: (202) 482-5802 | https://www.ntia.gov/category/funding-programs | TBD | Application window expected to open in mid-2024 to 2025 - after State Digital Equity Capacity Grants are issued. Digital Equity Act Programs Overview: https://www.internetforall.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/digital-equity-act-info-sheet.pdf |
| Federal | Open | Telecommunications Infrastructure Loans and Loan Guarantees Program | U.S. Department of Agriculture | Rural Utilities Service | This program provides financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement, and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas. | Deployment | Infrastructure buildout in rural areas. | Dependent on funding type | Dependent on funding type | Loans, Loan Guarantees | $50,000 minimum | N/A | No | N/A | Rolling | Rolling | N/A | Companies, nonprofits, Tribal, Governments | State and local governmental entities; federally recognized tribes; non-profits, including cooperatives, limited dividend or mutual associations; for-profit businesses (must be a corporation or limited liability company). | Rural areas and towns with a population of 5,000 or less that don't have telecommunications facilities or where the applicant is the recognized telecommunications provider. | Application expenses are not eligible. Loans can be used to finance telecommunications in rural areas for improvements, expansions, construction, acquisitions, and refinancing. | 25/3 Mbps | For questions about the Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program, please call the Loan Origination and Approval Division at (202) 720-0800. | https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/telecommunications-infrastructure-loans-loan-guarantees | eAuthentication (usda.gov) | ||
| Federal | Open | Lifeline | Federal Communications Commission | Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) | Provides a discount on phone and broadband service for qualifying low-income households to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities and security that those services bring, including being able to connect to jobs, family, and emergency services. | Adoption | Monthly benefit of up to $9.25 towards phone or internet services for eligible subscribers (up to $34.25 for those living on Tribal lands). | $2,572,862,300 | $2.57 billion | Subsidy | $9.25 per month per subscriber | N/A | N/A | N/A | Rolling/Ongoing | Rolling | Rolling basis | Companies | Providers of voice and broadband service, either wireless or wireline, designated as "eligible telecommunications carriers." | Nationwide | Consumers' monthly costs for phone and broadband service. | 25/3 Mbps | FCC Telecommunications Access Policy Division: 202-418-7400 or LifelineProgram@usac.org | https://www.usac.org/lifeline/ | N/A | There is no NOFO. For further information: https://www.usac.org/lifeline/learn/. | |
| Federal | Annual | Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development | The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. | Deployment | Infrastructure installation in new or substantially rehabilitated HUD-funded multifamily rental housing is required. | TBD | TBD | Grants | Varies | N/A | No | N/A | Applicants should contact their local CDBG programs for application deadlines | Varies | N/A | Governments | Urban "entitlement" jurisdictions, which are generally cities = or > 50,000 and counties = or > 200,000, receive funds based on a formula. Other jurisdictions, including most rural areas, can apply for and receive funds available to "non-entitlement" jurisdictions. Those grants are distributed by the State Small Cities CDBG programs. | Certain Alaskan, Aleut, or Eskimo tribes and Alaskan Native Villages can apply directly to their HUD field offices. | CDBG funds may be used for broadband and telecommunications projects, including such infrastructure improvements as the installation of wiring, fiber-optic cables, and distribution lines. Other eligible activities include digital literacy classes and economic development grants and loans to for-profit businesses, particularly businesses that focus on broadband internet access and technology. | N/A | Check with city, county, or state governments | https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/cdbg | N/A | 1/10/2024 HUD Proposed Rule: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/cdbg/proposed_rule Proposed Rule Factsheet: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/CPD/documents/CDBG_Proposed_Rule-FACT_SHEET.pdf Proposed Rule FAQs: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/CPD/documents/CDBG-Proposed-Rule-FAQs-2023-01-11.pdf | ||
| Federal | Annual | PIH Operating Fund | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development | Public and Indian Housing | PHAs may use Operating Funds to provide computer internet services to residents of public housing both in their units and in common areas. HUD has allowed PHAs to use Operating Funds to cover costs of computer internet service for computer labs and for PHA operation and management. | Adoption | Internet services and computer labs. | $4,500,000,000 | $4.5 billion | Grants | N/A | N/A | No | N/A | Applicants should contact their Public Housing Agency for information. | June 1, 2023 | Varies | Governments | Public Housing Agencies | Nationwide | Eligible costs include providing computer internet services, including computer labs, to residents of public housing in their units and in common areas. Other eligible costs include the maintenance of PHA-purchased broadband equipment and wiring; Wi-Fi network equipment; satellite/cellular receivers; and in-unit routers, hotspots, and modems. | N/A | REAC - Technical Assistance Center 1-888-245-4860 REAC_TAX@hud.gov | https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/PublicHousingFundingSupportInternetConnectivityResidents.pdf | N/A | COVID-19 funding increased the Capital Fund and expanded its uses related to the internet. FY2023 Schedule: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/2023%20OPFund%20Grant%20Schedule%2020230117.pdf |