Request for Applications to $10 Million Regional and Local Assistance Program To Build Local Government Capacity for Broadband Deployment, Digital Equity Initiatives Will Launch June 17 – Guidelines Available Here
Request for Applications to $1.4 Million Digital Equity Technical Assistance Fund To Support Non-Profits Bridging Digital Divide Will Launch June 17 – Guidelines Available Here
Governor Also Announces That Prequalification Application to Help Internet Service Providers Access Federal Funding Through ConnectALL Deployment Program Will Launch June 21 – Guidelines Available Here
Prospective Applicants Encouraged To Attend Information Sessions Scheduled for June 24-27
Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled application guidelines for more than $11 million in new grant programs under Empire State Development’s ConnectALL Initiative, the largest-ever investment in New York's digital infrastructure, ahead of the launch of the applications on June 17. Together, the programs – the Regional and Local Assistance Program and the Digital Equity Technical Assistance Fund – will prepare local government and nonprofit organizations to participate in upcoming broadband deployment and digital equity programs across the state. The Governor also issued guidelines for a precertification application, set to launch June 21, to help interested internet service providers access federal broadband funding under the ConnectALL Deployment Program.
“Affordable, reliable broadband is an absolute necessity for New Yorkers looking to get an education, access vital government resources and participate in a 21st century economy,” Governor Hochul said. “We are issuing these guidelines now to give applicants a running start in accessing critical broadband funding that will get more New Yorkers online and expand high-speed internet statewide.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Closing the digital divide is critical to unlocking economic growth and reducing inequities in our society. By connecting families to high-speed internet, we are connecting them to jobs, opportunities and services. These new programs complement our existing suite of programs and will allow us to move one step closer to achieving our goal of internet for all.”