Final Push To Award $644 Million Federal Investment To Serve Every New Yorker: Initiative Targets Last 0.3% of Homes and Businesses Across the State
Caps a Two-Year Process To Map and Confirm Service for New York’s Nearly Five Million Locations
Request for Applications Available Here, Submission Deadline May 5, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the ConnectALL Deployment Program Request for Applications (RFA) for Priority, Reliable, and Alternative Technology Solutions, a critical milestone in the multi-year process to secure affordable, reliable, high-speed internet service to the final remaining unserved and underserved locations across New York State. ConnectALL will accept applications from April 15 through May 5, 2025 to fund projects deploying traditional fiber optic, cable, hybrid fiber-coaxial, and licensed fixed wireless broadband service, and federally designated alternative technologies such as unlicensed fixed wireless and low earth orbit satellite services. Applicants can view the Request for Applications and submit a proposal by May 5, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
“Today marks a watershed moment in New York's digital future as we launch the final application phase of our historic ConnectALL Deployment Program,” Governor Hochul said. “Broadband is no longer a luxury — it's essential infrastructure for education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and daily life. With this program, we are ensuring that every single New Yorker, regardless of their zip code or economic circumstances, will have access to high-speed internet. By leveraging innovative technologies to reach our most remote communities, we are fulfilling our commitment to create a more equitable and connected Empire State.”
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Closing the digital divide in New York requires innovative approaches and strong partnerships between government and the private sector. This RFA represents the culmination of years of strategic planning and implementation to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to affordable, reliable broadband service. By embracing a range of technology solutions, including alternative options for our hardest-to-reach areas, we are demonstrating our commitment to leaving no community behind in the digital age.”
The RFA is open for applications and information on the Project Areas and eligible locations is available on the ConnectALL website. Organizations that have not yet completed the prequalification process, which was conducted from June 2024 to February 2025, will have an additional opportunity to submit these materials as part of their RFA response.