Pilot broadband loan grant combo - grant

This federal Project Grant award of $12,435,000.00 was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service under the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants program (CFDA 10.855). The grant was awarded on December 17, 2024 to the Nicholas County Commission in Summersville, West Virginia to improve telecommunications infrastructure and extend educational and medical services to underserved rural areas. The project aims to bridge technological gaps and enhance access to critical resources for rural residents through innovative telecommunications equipment and services. Federal grant sub-awards include funding for generators for critical facilities, environmental health impact projects, cybersecurity improvements, and substance use and mental health treatment support services. This funding will help strengthen telecommunications capabilities and expand distance learning and telemedicine offerings in the region over the 2-year project period ending on December 17, 2026.