The Community Connect Grant Program helps bring high-speed internet to rural areas that currently lack it. The goal is to boost economic growth and improve education and healthcare access in these communities. Grants range from $100,000 to $5 million, and priority is given to areas with the greatest need.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations and entities that can provide high-speed internet to rural areas lacking adequate broadband. Eligible applicants include local and state governments, tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, for-profit businesses, and educational institutions.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Applying for areas that already have adequate broadband service
- Submitting applications after the deadline
- Incomplete applications
- Not meeting the broadband speed requirements
- Not demonstrating economic need
What You May Need
- Completed application form
- Proof of eligibility
- Detailed project plan
- Budget and financial statements
- Community support letters
- Proof of matching funds
- Technical specifications of the broadband service
- Environmental impact assessment
- Compliance with 7 CFR part 1739
Cautions
- Expenses for application preparation are not reimbursed
- Ensure compliance with all regulations in 7 CFR part 1739
- Priority is given to areas with the greatest need
- Cost sharing or matching funds are required
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include special district governments, private institutions of higher education, individuals, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, state governments, city or township governments, for-profit organizations, county governments, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, and other Native American tribal organizations. These entities must aim to provide broadband service to rural areas that currently lack adequate internet access.
Overview
This grant is for organizations and entities that can provide high-speed internet to rural areas lacking adequate broadband. Eligible applicants include local and state governments, tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, for-profit businesses, and educational institutions.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Applying for areas that already have adequate broadband service
- Submitting applications after the deadline
- Incomplete applications
- Not meeting the broadband speed requirements
- Not demonstrating economic need
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to build and deploy broadband infrastructure in eligible rural areas, covering costs such as equipment, construction, and installation. The goal is to provide internet service that meets or exceeds 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload speeds.
Total Program Funding
$17,000,000
Expected Awards
5
Cost Sharing
Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- May 13, 2026
- Deadline
- Jun 29, 2026(1 days)
- Archive Date
- Jul 29, 2026
Application Checklist
- Review the FY 2026 Community Connect Grant Program Application Guide
- Register and submit your application through the online system
- Prepare a detailed project plan and budget
- Gather community support letters
- Ensure compliance with broadband speed requirements
- Provide proof of matching funds