Community Connect Grant Program (10.863)
Program
10.863 Community Connect Grant Program
Federal Agency
RURAL UTILITIES SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Authorization
Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2004, Public Law 108-199.
Program Number
10.863
Last Known Status
Active
Objectives
To encourage community-oriented connectivity by providing grants to eligible applicants who will deploy broadband transmission service in rural communities where such service does not currently exist; who will connect all critical community facilities such as local schools, education centers, libraries, hospitals, health care providers, law enforcement agencies, public safety organizations, fire, and rescue services, as well as residents and businesses; and who will operate a community center which provides free and open access to area residents.
Types of Assistance
Project Grants.
Uses and Use Restrictions
Grants will be made available, on a competitive basis, for the deployment of broadband transmission services to critical community facilities, rural residents, and rural businesses and for the construction, acquisition, expansion, and/or operation of a community center which would provide free access to broadband transmission services to community residents for at least two years. Funding is also available for end-user equipment, software, and installation costs. See 7 CFR Part 1739 for details.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicant Eligibility
To be eligible for a grant, the applicant must: (a) Be legally organized as an incorporated organization, an Indian tribe or tribal organization, a state or local unit of government, or other legal entity, including private corporations or limited liability companies organized on a for profit or not-for profit basis. (b) Have the legal capacity and authority to own and operate the broadband facilities as proposed in its application, to enter into contracts and to otherwise comply with applicable federal statutes and regulations.
Beneficiary Eligibility
The people living in rural areas and to improve rural opportunities through the availability of access to high speed broadband networks.
Credentials/Documentation
None.
Application and Award Process
Preapplication Coordination
None required. This program is excluded from coverage under E.O. 12372.
Application Procedure
Submit an application in accordance with 7 CFR 1739 and its accompanying application guide.
Award Procedure
Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to applicants receiving the highest number of points.
Deadlines
Application dates and deadlines are published annually by RUS in a Notice of Funding Availability.
Range of Approval/Disapproval Time
Appeals
None.
Renewals
Not applicable.
Assistance Considerations
Formula and Matching Requirements
This program has no formula requirements. Grant funding will be provided up to 85 percent of the total project. A 15 percent matching contribution will be required from the applicant.
Length and Time Phasing of Assistance
Advanced monthly or as needed to reimburse disbursements for approved grant purposes. Applicants generally have three years to spend funds. Extensions may be granted.
Post Assistance Requirements
Reports
SF 269, "Financial Status Report," and project performance activity report required annually.
Audits
An audit report is required for the years in which funds are received.
Records
Grantee will provide evidence that funds are expended for approved purposes.
Program Accomplishments
New program.
Financial Information
Account Identification
12-1232-0-1-452.
Obligations
(Grants) FY 03 $33,000,000; FY 04 est $9,000,000; and FY 05 est $0.
Range and Average of Financial Assistance
Varies.
Regulations, Guidelines and Literature
Proposed, 7 CFR 1739A.
Related Programs
None.
Information Contacts
Regional or Local Office
None.
Headquarters Office
Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5151, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 202500-1500. Telephone: (202) 720-9554. Use the same number for FTS.
Web Site Address
Examples of Funded Projects
New program.
Criteria for Selecting Proposals
Not applicable.
