Telecommunications grants available to help get access

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is now accepting applications for two grant programs, to improve telecommunications access for Wisconsin residents. These grants, the Non-profit Access Grant Program and the Lifeline Outreach Grant Program, are funded by the Universal Service Fund.

The Non-profit Access Grant Program provides funding to facilitate affordable access to telecommunications. The commission can award up to $500,000 in grants, with applications due March 1. This year, the Non-profit Access Grant will expand to a two-year performance period. Applicants must be non-profit organizations proposing projects that will facilitate affordable access to essential telecommunications services for low-income households, people with disabilities or customers in areas of the state, with relatively high costs of services.

The Lifeline Outreach Grant Program assists low-income customers in obtaining affordable access to telecommunications through the Lifeline program, which provides a discount on essential telecommunications services. The commission may award up to $250,000 in grants under this program, with applications due March 1.

The Lifeline Outreach Grant Program is currently organized under two program goals: outreach and education, and research and resource. Non-profit organizations, community- based agencies, political sub-divisions and Tribal governments are eligible under both program goal areas.

For-profit businesses, universities and other institutions of higher education, are eligible under the research and resource program goal area.

Grant applications for the programs must be submitted using the PSC Grants System. The system allows applicants to manage their applications online throughout the submission process.

For more information, visit psc.wi.gov.