Wisconsin Public Service Commission Announces Grant Funding Opportunities to Improve Telecommunications Access and Affordability in Wisconsin

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) announced the application periods for the Telemedicine Equipment Grant Program and the Lifeline Outreach Grant Program and is encouraging eligible entities to apply. Funded by the Universal Service Fund, these grant programs improve the availability and affordability of telecommunications services to people in Wisconsin. 

• The Telemedicine Equipment Grant Program provides funding to support the purchase of specialized medical telecommunications equipment used to promote technologically advanced medical services, to enhance access to medical care in rural and/or underserved areas of the state, or to enhance access to medical care by underserved populations and/or persons with disabilities. Eligible entities include non-profit medical clinics/hospitals and public health agencies, including Tribal health care facilities or programs. The PSC may award up to $1 million in this grant round. The application period opened on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, and applications are due Wednesday, March 4, 202,6 at 1:30 p.m.
• The Lifeline Outreach Grant Program improves participation in the Lifeline Program, which helps address affordability challenges by providing a discount on essential telecommunication services like internet and phone for low-income households. Nonprofit organizations, community-based agencies, institutions of higher education, local and Tribal governments, and for-profit businesses are all eligible to apply for this grant program. The PSC may award up to $250,000 this grant round. The application period opens on Monday, January 12, 2026, and applications are due on Wednesday, March 11, 202,6 at 1:30 p.m.