Accessible, affordable broadband is fundamental for long-term economic growth and stability. Yet, despite its general acceptance as an essential need, many Appalachian communities struggle to secure reliable broadband services. This impacts their ability to access education, employment opportunities, telehealth and more.
ARC’s broadband projects are designed to address unmet needs and create connections to help Appalachian communities thrive. These investments have expanded over the years, from exclusively broadband construction (or deployment) projects to non-construction projects that support access to available and affordable broadband – including broadband as a service (BaaS) projects and digital opportunity projects.
Proposals for broadband investments require specific forms, templates, procedural steps and reports that are unique to this project type. Broadband projects may be funded through various ARC grant initiatives, including Area Development, ARISE or POWER, so it is important for applicants to follow the timelines and processes specified by each funding source.
Application Guidance by Project Type
Featured Resources
Broadband Access in Appalachia
The share of Appalachian households with broadband internet access has increased by 12.2 percentage points when compared with figures from 2013-2017 and 2018-2022. Access more computer and broadband access data points from ARC’s latest Chartbook.
Broadband Bootcamp
Staying updated on broadband resources, challenges and opportunities is key to fostering growth and improving outcomes for Appalachia. Offered in 2024, this five-part virtual training series shares foundational knowledge for developing effective community broadband ecosystems that will have positive impacts for years to come.
Investments in Action
Accelerating Regional Broadband Access
