The California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) Broadband Infrastructure Grant Account closed its most recent application window on October 31, as the state continues efforts to expand reliable internet access to underserved communities. Although new applications are no longer being accepted for this round, projects funded through the program remain underway across California.
Many residents in rural or remote parts of California still lack fast and dependable internet. This gap impacts daily life by limiting access to online work, telehealth, and educational opportunities for families and students.
The CASF Infrastructure Grant Account is administered by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). It supports broadband providers, cooperatives, and local governments in building infrastructure such as fiber networks, fixed wireless systems, or cable modem services. The CPUC’s stated goal is “make broadband access universal, affordable, and resilient for all Californians.”
Several projects have received CASF grants to address these needs:
– In Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties, LCB Communications was awarded nearly $29.5 million to deliver fiber and fixed wireless service to over 1,100 previously unserved households.
– Surfnet Communications received a $10 million grant for the Three-County Fiber Project in San Luis Obispo, Santa Clara & Santa Cruz Counties. This project will bring last-mile fiber connections to 465 homes in rural areas.
– CalNeva Broadband secured just over $500,000 for the Rural Fresno Project serving Coalinga & Huron in Fresno County. This initiative aims to connect 600 locations using both fiber and fixed wireless technologies.
– In Riverside County’s Mountain Center community, Anza Electric Cooperative is utilizing $6.5 million from CASF funds to extend its fiber network.
Organizations interested in future funding cycles can review program rules on the CPUC website. Applicants must demonstrate that their projects will serve currently unserved areas with minimum speeds of 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload while maintaining cost effectiveness.
By supporting infrastructure development through these grants, the state aims to close the digital divide affecting families—especially those with low incomes or living in isolated regions—and help businesses participate more fully in the digital economy.
“Every mile of fiber, every new antenna, and every connection made under this program brings the state closer to universal broadband for all,” said Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer at CPUC.
“The CASF Infrastructure Grant Account isn’t just about technology; it’s about people: kids doing homework online, seniors checking in with doctors, and small businesses finding customers far beyond their zip code,” Shamim added.
For more information on participating or tracking ongoing projects statewide visit the CASF Infrastructure Grant Account page.
