From the Illinois Broadband Connections Newsletter.

March 20th marked the close of the first application window for the Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program. With over 100 unique applications having been received from across the state, including South, Central and Northern regions, the Illinois Broadband Team now begins the merit review process. Applicants can expect to receive communication about their applications in the coming months.

Applications submitted after the March 20 deadline will be evaluated as a part of Wave 2, which closes on May 8th at 5pm (CT). Those interested in applying for Wave 2 are encouraged to review the IDEC FAQ or email broadband@illinois.gov with specific questions.

The goal of IDEC is to ensure that all people and communities across Illinois have the skills, technology, and capacity needed to reap the full benefits of Illinois’ digital economy and marks a first step in kicking off Illinois’ implementation of its State Digital Equity Plan.

- Full Newsletter available here

- RELATED/Previous newsletter (Review of BEAD Wave 1 Applications is Underway) link.