Don’t miss your chance to apply

The Evers Administration yesterday announced the first round of broadband expansion grants approved as part of the 2019-21 state budget bill, which was passed into law in early July. This grant round will provide $24 million in funding to expand broadband access across Wisconsin. A second round, providing an additional $24 million, will be announced next year.

The purpose of the Broadband Expansion Grant Program is to encourage the deployment of advanced telecommunications capability in underserved areas of the state. Since 2014, 138 grants totaling over $20 million have been awarded, and have connected or are in the process of connecting over 4,000 businesses and 75,000 homes to high-speed broadband internet service.

“This investment demonstrates our strong commitment to connecting the underserved areas of our state,” said Gov. Tony Evers.

Public Service Commission Chairperson Rebecca Cameron Valcq added, “Access to broadband is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.”

Grant application materials are available now on the PSC website. Applications are due no later than 4 pm, December 19, 2019. The deadline for submitting questions and requests for clarification is December 5, 2019. For additional questions, please contact the Wisconsin Broadband Office at PSCStatebroadbandoffice@wisconsin.gov.