Ohio schools may now begin applying for the BroadbandOhio Connectivity Grant. The state has set aside $50 million in CARES Act dollars to help provide hotspots and internet-enabled devices to students.
“This is for home internet hotspots, cellular-enabled devices, public WiFi, and mobile public WiFi services,” Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted said. “Again we’re targeting those vulnerable populations of people who are living in poverty, maybe have chronic health conditions or no internet access. We have $50 million. That’s a lot of money but it’s not going to be enough to probably serve everyone, so we will target it to those that needed the most.”
After hearing feedback from various groups that it would create a barrier for districts, Husted says the matching grant requirement been removed from the program. Purchases made since July 1 of this year are also eligible. The application window will close August 21. Here's a link for more information and to request a grant application.
