Applications open for rural broadband funding grants in Washington

OLYMPIA — The Washington Public Works Board is currently accepting applications for broadband construction funding offering a total of $13.5 million in low-interest loans for projects in unserved areas of the state, according to an announcement from the Washington Department of Commerce.

Local governments, tribes, nonprofit organizations, cooperative associations, multiparty entities, limited liability corporations and incorporated businesses or partnerships may apply, according to the announcement. Projects passing threshold ratings based on a competitive ranking process may be awarded funds.

The pre-application deadline is July 18, the announcement said. A 30-day objection period will follow, and final applications are due on Oct. 4. Awards are expected in December 2023.

An optional application workshop will be held 10:30-11:30 a.m. Aug. 23, the announcement said, and applicants are encouraged to participate. No registration is required for the virtual meetings, and attendance is not required to submit an application for funding. The meeting will be via Zoom at https://bit.ly/3XjSbHy.

“The Public Works Board continues to make broadband access in unserved areas a priority with the availability of these very low-interest loans,” Board Chair Kathryn Gardow wrote in the announcement. “Every Washingtonian deserves high-speed broadband access, and the PWB is committed to closing this digital divide so that equitable participation in the modern world is possible.”