New York communities can now apply for a new round of state funding aimed at expanding high-speed internet access.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that up to $36 million is available through the ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program to support locally driven broadband projects in unserved and underserved areas across the state.
The program funds open-access, publicly controlled broadband infrastructure, giving municipalities more control over how internet service is delivered. Since launching, the Municipal Infrastructure Program has committed $268 million to projects in 24 counties, supporting more than 2,300 miles of new fiber optic lines and 68 wireless hubs serving more than 96,000 homes and businesses.
“Our ConnectALL initiative is delivering results — connecting thousands of homes and businesses to high-speed internet across every region of the state,” Hochul said.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through April 30, with project reviews beginning Feb. 2. All funded projects must be substantially complete by Dec. 31 to meet federal funding requirements. Individual grants are expected to be under $10 million.
Eligible projects include last-mile infrastructure, fiber connections to data centers or internet exchange points, and the acquisition of existing infrastructure if it improves service delivery. Funding can also support equipment such as routers and switches needed to interconnect networks.
State officials say the latest funding round builds on a broader effort to close the digital divide. Through ConnectALL, New York is investing more than $1 billion to expand broadband access, improve affordability, and strengthen competition among providers statewide.
The funding is supported by federal dollars from the American Rescue Plan. U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said the investment will help families stay connected to education, health care, and economic opportunities while creating jobs across the state.
Additional details on eligibility and how to apply are available through the ConnectALL broadband office.
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