Distance learning

Many rural areas and institutions rely on the technologies of distance learning and telemedicine to augment or even become the primary centers for those communities and in some cases, regions. It's one reason why the Agriculture Department's Rural Development Mission area offers what is known as distance learning and telemedicine grants.

The grant program actually is for applicants that they can be state and local government entities, federally recognized tribes, nonprofits and for profit businesses. And they can receive these grants to use for broadband transmission facilities, audio, video or interactive video equipment, terminal and data terminal equipment, computer hardware, network components, software, any of the infrastructure that's needed, internal wiring and those sort of things. And it's really to give access for distance learning and telemedicine.

Rural Development Deputy Undersecretary Betty Brand says a grant application process just recently concluded. Applications for distance learning and telemedicine grants totaling $72 million. However, days prior to the recent deadline, this announcement came.

We are actually providing that additional window for those who might not be able to complete that or be able to have their application submitted…

Due to the current covid-19 national emergency.