The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has dedicated over $313 million in funding to connect rural residents, farmers, and business owners to high-speed networks in 18 states.  

The demand for reliable and affordable broadband service has skyrocketed in the last year as Americans began relying on the internet for telework, distancing learning, and telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many Americans – both urban and rural – have lacked either access or sufficient connection strength during the health crisis.