USDA Announces $26 Million for Community Connect Grant Program in FY 2025

The USDA's Rural Utilities Service has announced approximately $26 million in grants through the Community Connect Grant Program for fiscal year 2025. The program aims to deliver broadband services to economically challenged rural communities currently lacking internet access, fostering economic growth and improving education and healthcare opportunities.

Eligible applicants include incorporated organizations, Indian Tribes, state and local governments, and legal entities such as cooperatives and corporations (for-profit or non-profit). The program requires matching contributions as specified in federal regulations.

Grant awards range from $100,000 to $5 million, with announcements expected in September 2025. The application window opened February 20, 2025, and closes April 21, 2025, at 11:59 a.m. ET. Applications must be submitted electronically. CLICK HERE for more information about the program.

This initiative is one of several USDA broadband programs, including the ReConnect Program which recently allocated over $313 million to connect rural communities across 18 states.

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