The Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant application for FY 2009 was announced in the Federal Register on December 24th but the grants are subject to the availability of funds. The notice was issued prior to passage of final appropriations to allow potential applicants time to submit proposals and to give the agency time to process applications within the current fiscal year. However on January 5th, more details were published in http://www.grants.gov. The estimated funding will be $25,000,000 for 100 awards with the award ceiling to be $500,000.
DLT grants are used to provide access to education, training and healthcare resources for people in rural areas and are used to encourage and improve telemedicine services and distance learning service through the use of telecommunications, computer networks, and related advanced technologies.
For FY 2008, Congress appropriated $30 million and projects have been awarded in 48 states and four territories totaling $263 million over the years.
All incorporated organizations or partnerships, Indian tribes or tribal organizations, state and local governments, consortiums, private corporations either for-profits or not-for-profits are eligible to apply.
The application deadline is March 24, 2009. For more information, go to the December 24th “Federal Register” or to http://www.grants.gov/. For copies of the application and materials for the grant program, go to www.usda.gov/rus/telecom/dlt.htm , by email dltinfo@usda.gov or call 202-720-0413, or fax 202-720-1051.
