The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated $25 million to enhance high-speed internet access in rural West Virginia. This funding, provided through the Broadband Technical Assistance Program, aims to assist local organizations, cooperatives, and Tribes in extending internet connectivity across rural communities.
The funds can be used for various projects, including feasibility studies, network designs, hiring efforts, and application development assistance, according to officials.
βIn todayβs world, having access to fast and reliable internet service is not a luxury but a necessity,β said USDA representative Thorn. βWhether itβs commerce, education, or healthcare, having high-speed internet is a catalyst for new opportunities in our rural communities. By partnering with local organizations to increase access and deploy this critical resource, weβre helping to close the digital divide for individuals regardless of where they live in the Mountain State.β
This announcement marks the second round of funding for the Broadband Technical Assistance Program. In the first round, the program received 96 applications, totaling $44.5 million in funding requests. Among the first-round recipients, Generation West Virginia was awarded a $610,116 grant to support high-speed internet services in rural areas of southern West Virginia.
For the second round, applicants must apply under one of two categories. Technical assistance providers are eligible for $100,000 to $1 million in funding, while technical assistance recipients may receive $50,000 to $500,000.
The department began accepting applications today, June 21. Applications must be submitted electronically usingΒ Grants.govΒ by August 20th.
For more information about rural development in West Virginia, visitΒ www.rd.usda.gov/wv.
Matt Pinner is a dedicated journalist for WVPrepBB.com, specializing in USA and crime news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the truth, Matt brings timely and insightful reporting to his readers. His work on WVPrepBB.com keeps the community informed and engaged with the latest developments in national news and criminal justice.
