Five Grants to Improve Broadband Access for International Internet Day

International Internet Day celebrates the invention of the World Wide Web and its positive impact on the world. While the internet has many benefits, lack of internet access, otherwise known as broadband, has been an ongoing issue. Specifically for people in low-income households or rural areas, getting this access can be a challenge. In honor of the day, which falls on Oct. 29, GrantWatch is sharing some grants that focus on providing people with internet access.

GrantWatch has a category for technology grants on its site, as well as one for community services and quality of life.

According to a report from the Federal Communications Commission, 19 million Americans, six percent of the population, lack access to broadband service at threshold speeds.  In rural areas, the report showed that nearly one-fourth of the population, 14.5 million people, lack access.

This can mean the difference between students being able to attend virtual school or employees being able to work remotely. In some areas, it can also mean a lack of access to adequate healthcare. Without broadband, entire rural and tribal communities could face these issues as well as limited employment opportunities.

There are many grants available to help extend access to high-speed internet in certain areas. Below, are five grants currently available on GrantWatch to help fund similar initiatives.

Five Grants to Increase Internet Access

1. There are grants available to U.S. healthcare providers to meet broadband and connectivity needs in rural areas. Funding is to increase the efficiency of health-related facilities that are located in rural areas.
2. In addition, there are grants to Wyoming businesses and government entities to promote the expansion of high-speed internet in eligible areas. Funding is for unserved areas or where the maximum fixed terrestrial broadband speed does not meet set download and upload speeds.
3. There are also grants available to Minnesota agencies, nonprofits, and tribal governments in eligible areas for broadband development. Funding is for building internet infrastructure development in eligible locations.
4. Financial assistance to U.S. households to offset the costs of broadband service and other technology needs during the pandemic. Recipients will receive a discount on Internet service costs and are eligible for a one-time discount towards a computer, tablet, or laptop.
5. Finally, there are grants available to U.S. IHE’s serving BIPOC communities for projects that increase internet access.

GrantNews Notes

It’s great to see grants available to help communities all over the United States get connected. Broadband is an essential infrastructure issue and can help communities improve exponentially by increasing access to healthcare and jobs.

Make sure to sign up for a paid subscription to GrantWatch to access all the tools available for grant seekers. Paid subscribers can access our keyword search tool to narrow down the focus of what funding you need for your initiative.