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The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it will allocate 7 million in grants and loans to 22 states and the Marshall Islands to enhance broadband access in remote areas. This funding is part of the USDA’s ReConnect Program, which aims to connect rural residents and businesses with high-speed internet.

The ReConnect Program, initiated by the USDA, is supported by the .2 trillion infrastructure bill signed by President Joe Biden in November 2021. The program requires all projects to offer download speeds of 100 megabits per second and upload speeds of 20Mbps. Participating projects also need to apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides discounted internet services for eligible households.

The allocated funds will be used to bring high-speed internet to remote locations, often serving populations of fewer than 5,000 people. For example, the Pioneer Telephone Cooperative in Oregon will receive a grant of .9 million to provide internet access to 2,239 individuals, a number of farms, and businesses. Likewise, a project in North Carolina will receive the same amount to connect 2,674 people, 84 businesses, 117 farms, and four educational facilities.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack expressed the importance of keeping rural America connected to reliable and high-speed internet. He believes that this initiative will not only bring new and innovative ideas to the rest of the country but also promote economic growth and create job opportunities.

With this substantial investment, the USDA aims to bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to essential services for residents and businesses in remote areas. By bringing broadband connectivity to these underserved regions, rural communities can thrive and participate fully in the digital economy.

For more information about broadband options and providers, you can refer to CNET’s list of the best internet service providers and learn how to set up the best broadband connection for your household.

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