The DLT Grant Program is primarily focused on providing equipment that operates via telecommunications to rural end-users of telemedicine and distance learning. It is useful to keep in mind that while the equipment is eligible, it does not fund the telecommunications that connects that equipment. DLT does not fund communications links between sites (wireless or wireline), and it does not fund telecommunications or Internet connections. Grants (and eligible matching funds) can be expended only for the costs associated with the initial capital assets associated with the project.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible applicants must be a legally incorporated organization, Indian tribe, or state or local unit of government. Applicants must also either operate a rural community facility or deliver distance learning or telemedicine services to entities that operate a rural community facility or to residents of rural areas. Additional Eligibility Criteria: Minimum Rurality Score - To be eligible to receive a grant, an application must receive a minimum of 20 points as an average score for all end-user sites included in the project.
DEADLINE
Applications were to be submitted by January 30, 2023. A similar deadline is anticipated, annually.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/telecommunications-programs/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants