From The Desk Down State

The first $50 million of the $420 million dedicated to statewide broadband Internet expansion was released during the week, along with information about how to apply for the grants.

Applicants for the grant are anticipated to include Internet service providers, rural cooperatives, nonprofits and local governments.

Grant responses for the first round of funding can be submitted through April 3, with up to $5 million available per project. Interested applicants can find more information about the Notice of Funding Opportunity at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/AboutDCEO/GATA/Pages/2366-1333.aspx....