TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — FloridaCommerce launched the Broadband Grant Registration Portal to streamline the application process for future broadband grant programs. Connecting Florida’s small cities and rural communities to broadband internet through workforce and infrastructure investments creates opportunities for Florida’s job seekers and job creators.
Since 2020, FloridaCommerce has been actively facilitating programs for unserved and underserved businesses, homes, farms and community anchor institutions to receive high-speed internet. Florida small cities and rural communities have received 85% of broadband infrastructure grants. These grants ensure Floridians across the state have reliable internet access to support workforce, education and health monitoring opportunities.
The Broadband Grant Registration Portal is a precursor to the Broadband Application Portal. Eligible applicants will preregister in the Registration Portal to receive credentials for the Broadband Application Portal. This preregistration will help confirm eligible applicants before the application cycles open.
Last month, FloridaCommerce launched a major initiative to deliver the required workforce to upgrade the state’s communications networks. FloridaCommerce, CareerSource Florida, the REACH Office, the Florida Department of Education, state and technical colleges, Local Workforce Development Boards, and other partners are collaborating to attract, train and deliver the workforce needed to bring broadband internet to all Floridians.
FloridaCommerce Office of Broadband is preparing to open grant application windows for the BEAD Deployment program, the BEAD Workforce grant program and the Digital Capacity Grant program. These programs will provide funding for broadband infrastructure, workforce and economic opportunities, cybersecurity and digital literacy initiatives across Florida especially in Florida’s small cities and rural communities.
To learn more about upcoming broadband grant opportunities contact the Office of Broadband at Broadband@Commerce.fl.gov or visit www.FloridaJobs.org/Broadband.
