Simpler Grants.gov #RUS-26-01-DLT

USDA Rural Utilities Service Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants for Rural Areas

The USDA Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is seeking applications for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program to enhance educational and healthcare access in rural communities. - Government Buyer: - United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Utilities Service (RUS) - Products/Services Requested: - Financial assistance for distance learning and telemedicine projects - Eligible uses include telecommunications-enabled information, audio and video equipment, software licenses, extended warranties, site licenses, maintenance contracts, and instructional programming (as capital assets) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; applicants must competitively procure all equipment and services unless a sole source is justified - Notable Requirements: - Grants range from $50,000 to $750,000, with a total of $27 million available - Minimum 15% matching contribution required from applicants - Applicants must provide a detailed scope of work, line-item budget, and description of project sites (including hubs and end-user locations) - Predetermined equipment or vendors are prohibited unless justified - Compliance with federal procurement standards is mandatory - Eligible Applicants: - State, local, and tribal governments, nonprofits, educational institutions, and businesses - Period of Performance: - Three-year project period beginning when funds are released; prior grants cannot be renewed, but new projects may be submitted by previous awardees

Description

The Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Program provides financial assistance to enable and improve distance learning and telemedicine services in rural areas. The grants support the use of telecommunications-enabled information, audio and video equipment, and related advanced technologies by students, teachers, medical professionals, and rural residents. The program aims to increase rural access to education, training, and health care resources that are otherwise unavailable or limited in scope. Eligible applicants include various government entities, nonprofits, educational institutions, and businesses. The program offers grants ranging from $50,000 to $750,000 with an estimated total funding of $27 million for FY 2026.

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