Grants of up to $500,000 are possible under a U.S. Department of Agriculture Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program, according to the Carson City-based Nevada office of USDA Rural Development.
Up to $17.5 million is available nationwide under the program as announced earlier this month by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, with eligible recipients those operating a rural community facility, or delivering distance learning or telemedicine services into rural areas.
Those eligible include Tribes, state or local government units, and corporations. Applicants must demonstrate need and provide at least 15 percent in matching funds. No individuals or sole proprietorships are eligible.
In Nevada, USDA Rural Development in the past has awarded more than $2.47 million for distance learning and telemedicine projects. Included were $711,500 for the state’s university and community college system, $300,000 for the Nye County school system, $993,544 for the White Pine and Humboldt County school systems, and $474,872 for the Elko County School District.
New applications must be submitted by Aug. 12. Further details about eligibility and application procedures are available from Joe Bradley, Nevada general field representative, by telephoning 208-288-1435.
