The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it will be providing grants and loans totaling over $667 million to 22 states and the Marshall Islands. The funds will be used to connect rural residents and businesses with high-speed internet, as part of the USDA’s ReConnect Program.
This is the fourth round of funding under the ReConnect Program, which aims to expand broadband access in remote areas. The program is funded by the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill signed by President Joe Biden in November 2021.
All projects funded by the ReConnect Program are required to provide download speeds of 100 megabits per second and upload speeds of 20Mbps. They must also apply to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, which offers discounts on internet service for eligible households.
The allocated funds will be used to bring high-speed internet to remote locations, prioritizing areas with fewer than 5,000 people. For example, in Oregon, the Pioneer Telephone Cooperative will receive a grant of $24.9 million to provide high-speed internet to 2,239 people, as well as farms and businesses. Similarly, a project in North Carolina will receive the same amount to serve 2,674 people, 84 businesses, 117 farms, and four educational facilities.
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack highlighted the importance of keeping rural communities connected to reliable high-speed internet. He emphasized that this investment will not only bring new ideas and innovation to the rest of the country but also create job opportunities and contribute to long-term economic growth and prosperity.
The funding provided by the USDA is part of a broader effort to improve broadband access across the United States. To further explore broadband options and find the best internet providers, satellite internet providers, and Wi-Fi routers, individuals can refer to CNET’s guidance on the topic.
