ConneCTed Communities Grant Program in Connecticut

The ConneCTed Communities Grant Program, administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP), supports broadband infrastructure development across the state with a goal of ensuring fast, affordable, and reliable internet access for all residents. The program is funded by the Capital Projects Fund (CPF) under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with a specific focus on providing connectivity to underserved communities and facilitating digital equity, especially in multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and low-income areas. In its second round, approximately $10 million has been awarded to projects across 44 Connecticut municipalities, including 10 classified as Distressed Municipalities. These projects are expected to enable over 3,800 additional homes and small businesses to access symmetrical broadband speeds of at least 100 Mbps, with many areas benefiting from gigabit-level service. These infrastructure investments aim to meet current digital needs while also preparing communities for future technological advancements. The program is still accepting applications for the current round, with an estimated $6.7 million in funding still available. Applications must propose projects that are substantially completed by December 31, 2026. DEEP prioritizes last-mile fiber infrastructure projects that demonstrate strong prior planning and include substantial matching funds. Proposals that commit to delivering 1 Gbps/100 Mbps service or infrastructure that can scale to that capacity are favored, as are those that include affordable service plans and high service quality. Eligibility to apply is extended to government entities (including state agencies, municipalities, counties, and tribal governments), private for-profit internet service providers, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, cooperatives, utilities, and mutual organizations. While MDU stakeholders such as property managers and tenants cannot apply independently, they are encouraged to partner with eligible applicants to co-develop proposals or report broadband connectivity issues via an intake form. These collaborative approaches help identify and document underserved properties for potential improvements. Applications are submitted through DEEP’s application portal and must include several components, such as a completed project schedule, budget, location data, and details on nonstandard installation costs, if applicable. A sample contract and the list of Distressed Municipalities are provided for applicant reference. Additional guidance is available in the program’s FAQs, Quick Start Guide, and through two webinars held in October 2024 and April 2025, which cover strategies for reaching MDUs and low-income residents. The application process is rolling, meaning there is no fixed closing date, and submissions are accepted on an ongoing basis until funds are depleted. Applicants may direct questions and submit documents to DEEP’s broadband program via email at DEEP.Broadband@ct.gov. The program continues to evolve with updates posted regularly on the official CT.gov website, ensuring transparency and access to vital information for prospective applicants.

Use the Quick Start Guide and FAQs to support strong submissions; partner with eligible entities for MDU projects.