The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for loans and loan guarantees to build or update broadband and telephone infrastructure in rural areas.

Up to $690 million in loans is available nationwide this year through the Telecommunications Infrastructure Program. The financing can be used for the construction, improvement, or expansion of telecommunications infrastructure serving rural areas with a population of 5,000 or less. In some cases, the loans may also be used to acquire telecommunications infrastructure or to refinance.

State and local government entities, federally-recognized tribes, nonprofits, corporations, and limited liability companies are eligible to apply. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis.

Hardship loans may be offered at the discretion of USDA to assist applicants in meeting financial feasibility requirements for applications proposing to assist underserved areas.

Applications are accepted year-round.

We encourage all applicants to contact John Holman, Telecommunications General Field Representative, (503) 310-7692, prior to developing an application to review application and eligibility requirements.