At Shaping Our Appalachian Region, we’re committed to ensuring that every corner of Eastern Kentucky has access to affordable, reliable internet. It’s a key component of our Blueprint and a focus in all of the work that we do.
With this, we are proud to announce that we have been selected as a recipient of a USDA Broadband Technical Assistance grant to support the development and expansion of broadband.
Our proposal focuses on Pike County. According to data, 20% of rural Pike County lack adequate levels of connectivity within and around six unincorporated communities.
The need for action is clear. And our approach is all-hands-on-deck.
The 2010 Census Data reveals that Pike County, with its population of 65,024 spread across 787 square miles, is a prime example of the digital divide across the region. Our mission is to bridge this gap and provide true universal broadband access to every Eastern Kentuckian.
To achieve this ambitious goal, we’re taking a more holistic approach. While targeting specific communities may seem logical, we recognize that the real solution lies in serving as many unserved households in unincorporated Pike County as possible. This approach ensures that no one is left behind in our quest for connectivity.
With funding from the USDA Broadband Technical Assistance program, we have a unique opportunity to make significant strides in expanding broadband access to underserved areas. But securing funding is just the beginning. We must also navigate the complexity of broadband infrastructure development, which requires careful planning and coordination.
That’s where SOAR comes in.
We’ll focus on providing the necessary expertise, capacity, and resources to assist the Pike County Fiscal Court in applying for broadband funding. We’re working closely with USDA Rural Development staff, engaging critical stakeholders from local schools to government officials, and collaborating with state and regional partners to gather data and advocate for funding allocation.
We’re all in on helping communities be connected
If you’re a community leader or organization looking for a roadmap to transform the digital landscape of your own community, download “Getting Funded: The Manual for Writing & Winning Broadband Grants” today. Let’s lead the way to a more connected future for all of Appalachia!
The FREE guide provides guidance on:
- How to navigate regulatory context and partnerships
- How to evaluate possible funding sources and their parameters
- How to identify actionable funding opportunities
- How to prepare and submit competitive grant proposals
Together, we can empower Eastern Kentucky communities and ensure that no holler is left behind.