Rural residents of 46 states will benefit from two funding programs totaling $34.7 million announced by the U. S.Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Service for fiscal year 2006. They are provided in the Rural Broadband Community Connect Grants program and the Distance Learning and Telemedicine program.

Community Connect Grants

Rural communities in 8 states received $8.9 million in 2006 broadband grants from the Rural Development Service to connect essential community facilities. More than $57.7 million have been invested over five years by USDA Rural Development to open the door to broadband infrastructure in rural communities. Broadband technology enables essential services including schools to connect to the Internet. (See news release.)

To be eligible, applicants must propose to provide broadband transmission service on a “community-oriented connectivity” targeting rural, economically-challenged communities. Acceptable proposals offer a means for the deployment of broadband transmission services to rural schools, libraries, education centers, health care providers, law enforcement agencies, public safety organizations, as well as residents and businesses.

Distance Learning and Telemedicine

Rural communities in 38 states will benefit from the 2006 Distance Learning and Telemedicine grants totaling $25,853.99 for improved education and medical services, as announced by U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Thomas Dorr.

Available from USDA since 1993, the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program administered by the Rural Utilities Service is designed to meet the educational and health care needs of rural America through the use of advanced telecommunication technologies. Approved grant purposes include the acquisition of equipment such as computer hardware and software, audio and video equipment, etc.; purchase of available instructional programs, and tehnical assistance or instruction.

To be eligible, applicants must propose to deliver distance learning or telemedicine services, must be an incorporated entity, an Indian tribe or tribal organization, or a state or local unit of government. Either profit or not-for-profit entities are eligible. Since the program is designed to provide enhanced educational and health care opportunities to rural residents, applicants must determine the extent to which its project serves rural areas. Data from the 2000 U. S. Census must be utilized to make this calculation.

Additional details, along with regulations and an application guide are available on the Internet. For futher information, Rural Utilities Service, USDA, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 1550, Room 2838, Washington, D.C. 20250-1550; by phone at 202-720-0413; or by fax at 202-720-1051.