USDA Announces 2023 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants
The USDA Rural Utilities Service (RUS) recently announced that they have released $64 million for the 2023 Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant program. The RUS is accepting applications from eligible entities to increase rural access to education, training, and health care resources that are otherwise unavailable or limited in scope.
What is the program’s purpose?
In order to make progress toward the goal of digital equity throughout the country, the DLT program provides financial assistance to enable and improve distance learning and telemedicine services in rural areas. DLT grant funds support the use of telecommunications-enabled information, audio and video equipment, and related advanced technologies by students, teachers, medical professionals, and rural residents. These grants are intended to increase rural access to education, training, and health care resources.
What are the anticipated funding amounts and duration?
Awards are expected to range in size from $50,000 to $1 million, with the anticipated program start being September 30, 2023 and end three years after funds are released. Match funding is required in the amount of 15 percent of eligible project costs.
How may the funds be used?
Funds can be used to purchase or support:
- Audio, video, and interactive video equipment
- Broadband facilities used for distance learning or telemedicine (up to a certain percentage)
- Computer hardware, network components, and software
- Instructional programming
- Limited technical assistance and instruction on how to use distance learning and telemedicine equipment.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants include most entities that provide education or health care through telecommunications, including:
- State and local governmental organizations
- Federally-recognized Tribes
- Non-profit organizations
- Incorporated, for-profit businesses
- Groups of eligible entities working together
When is the application deadline?
Applicants must submit applications electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm on January 30, 2023.
The full Request for Applications can be found here.
Morrison has extensive experience writing successful applications for clients for USDA programs. For more information on this grant or how to apply with Morrison’s assistance, please contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764.