ConnectLA

Office of Governor Jeff Landry announced today Louisiana is the first state in the nation to award $1.355B in BEAD funding to expand broadband access. ConnectLA is proud to issue its Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), outlining GUMBO 2.0 program awards to internet service providers that will construct critical broadband infrastructure in 140,000 locations across all 64 parishes. ? Additionally, over $500 million in non-deployment funds will support organizations in addressing critical gaps in digital access. This historic investment will transform Louisiana’s digital landscape, creating opportunities for generations to come. Review the Final Proposal and submit feedback by December 10 at connect.la.gov/bead. Read more: https://lnkd.in/emsw--ex

This week, we’re highlighting a completed GUMBO 1.0 project in Caldwell Parish. Through the GUMBO 1.0 program, SkyRider Communications is providing broadband access to a total of 508 locations in Caldwell Parish, including 449 residential locations and 59 businesses. “Business is OPEN in Caldwell Parish,” shared Monty Adams, President of the Caldwell Parish Industrial Board. “As President of the Caldwell Parish Industrial Board, we are very pleased that with the help of the state’s GUMBO program, SkyRider Communications has built an underground fiber network to many rural parts of the parish. Caldwell Parish has consistent, high bandwidth Internet service available. This will allow us to compete for new residential and business customers. Come see what Caldwell Parish has to offer!” We’re excited to see this project impact communities in Caldwell Parish, expanding digital opportunity and closing critical gaps in broadband access. Learn more about GUMBO 1.0 and the status of other projects here: https://lnkd.in/eaVDYTbR

Through ConnectLA’s GUMBO 1.0 program, we’re making significant strides in closing the digital divide in parishes across Louisiana. Today, we’re highlighting the completion of a GUMBO 1.0 project in Lafourche Parish, through which REV provided high-speed internet access to 43 residential locations. Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, Shalanda Young, spoke on this milestone in broadband expansion, saying “Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury – it is an essential tool to access education, healthcare, and jobs.” As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to seeing broadband access empower communities in Lafourche Parish and across Louisiana. Learn more about this project and its impact on rural communities in Lafourche Parish: https://lnkd.in/eJcT_gGk

Last week, ConnectLA joined broadband provider Cajun Broadband Inc for the groundbreaking of broadband expansion projects in Iberia Parish. We’re proud to support efforts across Louisiana to help bridge the digital divide and look forward to the far-reaching impact they’ll have on communities throughout the state!

Whether filling out a digital job application, performing online banking, or completing remote coursework, having internet access is crucial to fully participate in the modern economy. However, many communities—particularly those that are rural or low-income—face significant financial and technical hurdles to getting connected. To combat this, grassroots organizations, state and federal offices, and Federal Reserve Banks have all joined the fight to close the digital divide to support a more inclusive economy. In early 2024, the American Enterprise Institute ranked ConnectLA as the nation’s top performing broadband office in its annual evaluation of state broadband programs. ConnectLA’s secret to its success—community engagement. Check out this blog by Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas colleagues to learn more about how ConnectLA is engaging and helping their community. https://lnkd.in/eYGhKCP2

ConnectLA is proud of our nation-leading progress in broadband expansion efforts, and we’re not slowing down. We’re committed to closing the digital divide in Louisiana by actively engaging with the communities we serve, ensuring open communication with every stakeholder involved. Learn more about our progress as ConnectLA’s Deputy Director, Thomas Tyler, discusses our achievements and next steps: https://lnkd.in/eYGhKCP2

There’s only one week left to apply for NTIA’s $1.25 billion funding opportunity to address barriers to digital opportunity in your community! Next Monday, Sept. 23 is the deadline to apply for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s Digital Equity Competitive Program, which will fund efforts to help all communities fully participate in the digital world. Learn more about the program, eligibility and how to apply here: ?https://lnkd.in/d9q85xqx Watch the NTIA’s DE Competitive Grant Application webinar series for guidance on the application process: https://lnkd.in/e8u8kWsE

It’s not too late to apply for your share of this $1.25 billion funding opportunity to enhance digital opportunity in your community! The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is accepting applications for their Digital Equity Competitive Grant program until September 23, 2024. Interested in learning more about the program, eligibility, and how to apply? Visit the NTIA’s website for more information and to access the grant application portal: https://lnkd.in/d9q85xqx Watch the NTIA’s DE Competitive Application webinar series for in-depth guidance on the application process: https://lnkd.in/e8u8kWsE

Interested in joining ConnectLA’s efforts to combat the digital divide in Louisiana? The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program will fund initiatives to ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world. The deadline to apply is Monday, Sept. 23. Find more information about the program, eligibility, and how to apply here: https://lnkd.in/d9q85xqx Get in-depth guidance on the application process by checking out NTIA’s DE Competitive Application webinar series: https://lnkd.in/e8u8kWsE

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to help close the digital divide in your area! Applications for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program are due Sept. 23, 2024! This program aims to address barriers to digital opportunity and spur greater adoption and meaningful use of broadband in local communities. Learn more about the program, eligibility, and how to apply here: https://lnkd.in/d9q85xqx Need help building a strong application? Check out NTIA’s DE Competitive Application webinar series for guidance on the application process! https://lnkd.in/e8u8kWsE