In Washington, three agencies are working together to accomplish the state’s goal of bringing access to high-speed internet to every home and business. Commerce, the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB), and the Public Works Board (PWB) are dedicated to closing the digital divide. This page provides an overview of each agency’s role and funding cycles.
Together, we have the resources and technical know-how to provide support through mapping, planning and construction.
Access to broadband boosts economic vitality, creates jobs, and supports Washington businesses competing in local, regional and global markets. It also builds opportunities for telemedicine, education and public safety.
Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO)
Funding: Grants
Funding Cycle: Competitive – Closed
Next Cycle: 2024
Eligible Activities:
Eligible construction projects that provide high-speed broadband infrastructure that meets the state’s speed goals of 150 Megabytes (MBps) symmetrical by 2028. Projects must be deployed in unserved communities across the state.
Eligible Applicants:
• Local governments
• Federally recognized tribes
• Nonprofits
• Nonprofit cooperative organizations
• Public/private partnerships
Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB)
Funding: Loans/Grants
Funding Cycle: Non-competitive – Open
Next Cycle: Continuous
Eligible Activities:
Eligible construction projects are those that provide high-speed broadband service access to unserved and underserved populations in rural communities across the state.
Eligible Applicants:
• Local governments
• Federally recognized tribes
Requirements:
All applicants must have a committed internet service provider.
Public Works Board (PWB)
Funding: Loans/Grants
Funding Cycle: Competitive (Loan only) – Open
Next Cycle: 2024
Eligible Activities:
Eligible construction projects are those that provide high-speed broadband service access to unserved populations in rural and urban communities across the state.
Eligible Applicants:
• Local governments
• Federally recognized tribes
• Nonprofits
• Cooperative associations
• LLCs organized to expand broadband
• Incorporated businesses or partnerships
Requirements:
All applicants must notify project area internet service providers at least six weeks prior to application.