Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday announced a new $5 million initiative aimed at improving wireless mobile coverage across New York State, targeting communities with persistent connectivity gaps.
The program, known as the Connectivity Innovation – Mobile Service Request for Applications (RFA), is a key element of the broader ConnectALL Mobile Service Connectivity Initiative, first introduced during Hochul’s State of the State address. The funding will support innovative and scalable solutions to extend reliable cellular service in areas where it remains limited or unavailable.
The initiative is designed to support projects that can serve multiple mobile network providers and demonstrate the use of new or existing technologies in novel ways. Applicants may include local governments, nonprofits, and other eligible entities with creative proposals to address service gaps in their regions.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said the funding will provide critical support to communities that have long struggled with unreliable cellular service.
“The digital divide takes many forms across our state,” Knight said. “This program will empower eligible entities with the resources they need to implement creative solutions that bring reliable cellular service to areas traditionally underserved by the current connectivity marketplace.”
The state anticipates awarding approximately three grants ranging from $1 million to $2 million. Applications open April 11 and must be submitted by June 17 through New York’s Consolidated Funding Application portal. Full details and application materials are available on the ConnectALL website.
A virtual information session will be held in the coming weeks.
