[1st-mile-nm] USDA Seeks Applications to Finance Rural Broadband in Remote Areas

[Richard Lowenberg]

USDA Seeks Applications to Finance Rural Broadband in Remote Areas

www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2013/06/0120.xml&contentidonly=true

WASHINGTON, June 11, 2013 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced 
today that applications are being accepted for grants to finance 
broadband deployment in remote, rural areas. The United States 
Department of Agriculture (USDA) remains focused on carrying out its 
mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today's 
announcement is one part of the Department's efforts to strengthen the 
rural economy.

"The Obama Administration believes that reliable infrastructure is 
critical to rural economic opportunity. Broadband service expands 
educational, medical and health services for rural residents," Vilsack 
said. "Expanded broadband service also is important because it supports 
employment opportunities and makes income growth possible in rural 
areas."

Through this notice, USDA Rural Development may award up to $21 million 
in grants through the Community Connect Grant program. It serves rural 
communities where broadband service is not available, but where it can 
make a tremendous difference in the quality of life for citizens.

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Richard Lowenberg, Executive Dir.
1st-Mile Institute, 505-603-5200
P.O.Box 8001, Santa Fe, NM 87504
www.1st-mile.org  rl at 1st-mile.org
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