The Blandin Foundation offers a number of support programs to communities interested in pursuing better broadband. The next deadline for funding assistance is April 4, 2014.

You can get more information on programs on the Blandin Foundation website. Good luck!

The following grants are available:

• Robust Broadband Network Feasibility Fund  $25,000 – $40,000 for broadband feasibility studies
• LightSpeed Up to $50,000 for advanced application deployment
• Digital Inclusion Community Partnership Up to $25,000 for efforts to increase computer ownership and broadband  adoption among low-income populations
• Broadband Innovation Up to $10,000 for community projects that support enhanced culture of  broadband use

There is also an opportunity for consulting assistance:

Community Broadband Resources. Technical, educational, informational and convening resources are available to assist communities as they identify, prioritize and act on their broadband-related objectives. Many resources are publicly accessible at the Foundation’s broadband website and at the Blandin on Broadband blog. In addition, applications for up to 32 hours of flexible technical assistance are accepted on an ongoing basis (application is at website). Applications for community broadband resources are accepted on an ongoing basis.