RUS Broadband Grant Applications Due June 19

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Utilities Service (RUS) announced that applications for its Community Connect Grant Program for Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 are due June 19, 2009. The purpose of the Community Connect Grant Program is to provide financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible applicants that will provide currently unserved areas, on a "community-oriented connectivity" basis, with broadband transmission service that fosters economic growth and delivers enhanced educational, health care, and public safety services. Rural Utilities Service will give priority to rural areas that it believes have the greatest need for broadband. In addition, RUS announces the minimum and maximum amounts for Community Connect grants applicable for the fiscal year. Just over $13.4 million is available for grants. RUS has established a minimum grant amount of $50,000 and a maximum grant amount of $1,000,000 for FY 2009.