Montana officials are looking to distribute $266 million in federal stimulus funds to expand access to broadband internet. Applications for proposed projects are now open.
State lawmakers and the Department of Administration are seeking applications from private broadband providers who have proposals to reach unserved and underserved communities, particularly in Indian Country.
According to the Federal Communications Commission, three in five rural Montanans do not have access to high-speed internet. The state launched an interactive map Monday to show who’s lacking access.
In a statement, Gov. Greg Gianforte called the effort "a historic investment to get fiber in the ground and close the digital divide."
The funds for broadband projects come from the American Rescue Plan Act passed by Democrats in Congress. Gianforte has condemned the passage of the massive stimulus bill as reckless spending, but has said the state aims to use the money responsibly.
Providers who are awarded federal funds must match 20% of the cost of their projects. Find more information at https://connectmt.mt.gov.
