Greenwood Announces $350M in ‘Connect Illinois’ Grants to Grow Broadband Access in Underserved Communities

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – State Rep. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, recently announced $350 million in grants available through the ‘Connect Illinois’ program to grow broadband access in underserved communities. Businesses, nonprofits, cooperatives, school districts and local governments are welcome to apply.

“Without consistent broadband access, competing in modern life can be a huge challenge,” Greenwood said. “Kids have a less productive education and businesses have a harder time attracting customers; these are the kind of disadvantages that we have to eliminate in our community and across the state. Widespread broadband service will help grow our economy, bolster public schools and generally promote equity. These grants are a substantial step towards making that goal a reality.”

‘Connect Illinois’ Broadband Grant Program is offering $350M in grants to nonprofits, businesses, cooperatives, school district and local governments in unserved or underserved areas. This money can go towards network design, project planning, equipment, construction and deployment of necessary infrastructure. For more information or to apply, please visit https://www.illinois.gov/.

“It’s past time we deliver universal access to high-speed internet,” Greenwood said. “I strongly encourage small businesses and other organizations who have been left without this essential service to apply for assistance.”