USDA Rural Development to host key webinar on distance learning and telemedicine grants

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is set to host a crucial webinar, focusing on the upcoming Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grants. This initiative is part of USDA’s efforts to address the challenges faced by rural communities, such as remoteness and low population density, through the use of advanced telecommunications technology.

Scheduled for Jan. 17, 2024, Wednesday, from 10 am-11 am, the webinar aims to provide detailed insights into the DLT Grant opportunity. Participants are encouraged to register here for the event. During the session, USDA Rural Development staff will discuss various aspects of the grant, including the application process, eligibility criteria, and the broad spectrum of fund utilization.

The DLT Grant, with awards ranging from $50,000 to $1 million, is expected to open its application window in January 2024 for a 60-day period. Eligible entities include state and local government organizations, federally-recognized Tribes, nonprofit organizations, incorporated for-profit businesses and consortia of eligible entities. The program specifically targets rural areas with populations of 20,000 or fewer, emphasizing its focus on underserved communities.

The funds are designated for various purposes, such as purchasing audio, video, interactive video equipment, broadband facilities, computer hardware, network components, software, instructional programming and offering limited technical assistance. A noteworthy requirement for grant applicants is a minimum 15% match, which cannot originate from another federal source.

The DLT Grant primarily addresses several key priorities: responding to healthcare challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, promoting racial equity, supporting rural economic recovery, and tackling the climate crisis. This fiscal year, Congress allocated $60 million to the program, with the possibility of increased funding subject to additional appropriations. Past beneficiaries of the program have included libraries, health clinics, and universities, showcasing its wide-reaching impact.

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