After originally launching in January 2022 only to pause for nearly one year for administrative rulemaking, Round 3 of the Connect Illinois Broadband Grant Program is reopening. The $350M round leverages a combination of state and federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to resume investment in broadband access expansion ahead of separate but complementary federal BEAD funding. Hear from Illinois Office of Broadband director Matt Schmit and his colleagues at the Illinois Broadband Lab regarding next steps for Round 3. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions during a Q and A following the presentation.

About the presenter:

Matt Schmit, Deputy Director for Broadband within the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, administers the state’s Office of Broadband and its various grant programs. Matt leads the push for Illinois' ubiquitous broadband access and uses his past expertise from consulting in the areas of technology deployment, infrastructure investment, and economic development.

For more information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate, please contact Nancy Ouedraogo or call 217-244-7020.