The state has announced the launch of the ConnectALL Deployment Program Request for Applications (RFA) for Priority, Reliable, and Alternative Technology Solutions. The state calls this a “critical milestone” in the multi-year process to secure affordable, reliable, high-speed internet service to the final remaining unserved and underserved locations across New York.
ConnectALL will accept applications through May 5 to fund projects deploying traditional fiber optic, cable, hybrid fiber-coaxial, and licensed fixed wireless broadband service, and federally designated alternative technologies such as unlicensed fixed wireless and low-earth-orbit satellite services. Applicants can view the Request for Applications here
Governor Kathy Hochul has made expanding broadband access a cornerstone of her administration’s efforts to create a more equitable New York. Through the ConnectALL initiative, New York State is investing $1 billion to transform the state’s digital infrastructure, enhance competition among providers, and ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. To date, ConnectALL has overseen the successful launch and implementation of several programs to advance broadband access, including:
- The Digital Equity Program will invest $50 million, including a federal allocation of at least $37 million, to implement the New York State Digital Equity Plan to close the digital divide. On March 24, ConnectALL closed the Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications, through which ConnectALL expects to award approximately $15.5 million of the federal allocation.
- The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program will provide up to $100 million in grants to bring new broadband infrastructure to homes in affordable and public housing, leveraging funds from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Capital Projects Fund. The first awards under this program are securing $10 a month broadband service and $30 a month Gigabit service for over 14,000 low-income households in Buffalo, New York City, and Rochester. The program continues to accept applications from internet service providers and expressions of interest from housing owners and public housing authorities.
- The Municipal Infrastructure Program will fund broadband expansion projects owned by a public utility or publicly controlled. ConnectALL is accepting applications to Phase 4 through April 25, 2025. To date, ConnectALL has awarded over $240 million through the program, funding construction of nearly 2,400 miles of broadband infrastructure that will reach 98,000 locations across New York State. Visit the ConnectALL Projects Dashboard for more information on Municipal Infrastructure Program projects.
- The Connectivity Innovation Program advances innovation and new broadband solutions, business models, and technologies in order to increase private sector investment and entrepreneurship; drive equity and innovation in the broadband marketplace; and reinforce a thriving research, development, and manufacturing ecosystem to support connectivity innovation in New York. ConnectALL is accepting applications to the Connectivity Innovation – Mobile Service RFA through June 17, 2025.
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