Hartford, CT – The Connecticut Education Network (CEN) and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) today announced that Connecticut is investing $2.8 million through round one of the Community Wi-Fi Grant Program to expand free, high-speed internet access in neighborhoods, parks, schools, libraries, and other public spaces. The initiative is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Capital Projects Fund and is a key component of Governor Ned Lamont’s recovery plan. It empowers communities by helping residents work, learn, and stay connected. All Community Wi-Fi investments are made using federal relief dollars, strategically directed through the Governor’s plan to support economic and workforce development, education, and community engagement.
Round one partners include Wesleyan University, Danbury Public Schools, and municipalities from Wilton to Windsor Locks.
To see the full list of Round 1 awards, visit the Community Wi-Fi Grant Program: Round 1 Awardees and Project Descriptions.
Round 1 Highlights:
- More than $2.8 million awarded for 14 projects, involving 34 organizations
- Seven projects underway, 4 preparing orders, 3 finalizing contracts
“By working closely with our members to deliver reliable Wi-Fi in local communities, we’re helping close the digital divide directed at those who need it most,” said Ryan Kocsondy, Executive Director of CEN. “Extending high-quality connectivity through Wi-Fi networks strengthens the infrastructure that supports access to government services, telehealth, academic resources, and civic participation. We are proud to partner with our member institutions and make an impact on connectivity throughout Connecticut.”
"Expanding access to reliable, high-speed internet is critical to ensuring every Connecticut resident has the tools they need to succeed in school, at work, and in their daily lives," DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman said. "These community Wi-Fi investments reflect our commitment to closing the digital divide and building stronger, more connected neighborhoods. By partnering with schools, libraries, municipalities, and community institutions, we are strengthening the foundation for economic growth, educational opportunity, and civic engagement across the state."
Following the success of Round 1, submissions for Round 2 of the Community Wi-Fi Grant Program are now complete, with an additional $6.8 million expected to be awarded. Applications are currently under review. Due to overwhelming interest from communities across the state, the program is now oversubscribed, underscoring the urgent demand for equitable internet access and the strength of local partnerships. This high level of engagement highlights the program’s growing impact and reinforces the importance of continued investment in digital infrastructure.
About the Program
The Community Wi-Fi program is a $10 million competitive subgrant under the CEN Broadband Infrastructure Program, funded by the ARPA Capital Project Fund and supported by Governor Lamont’s Connecticut’s Plan for the American Rescue Plan of 2021. It is designed to aid and enhance internet infrastructure for work, education, health, and wellness. By leveraging the CEN infrastructure platform, the program will expand high-quality, secure, 802.11-based wireless internet access through Community Anchor Institutions (CAIs) across Connecticut, with a focus on underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. The program also promotes the adoption of eduroam®, a global platform for secure, authenticated Wi-Fi access, further extending connectivity and support to users across institutions. Any CAI was able to apply for grant funds, and where needed, leverage funds to attach to CEN and expand high-quality and secure Wi-Fi in their communities.
