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Connected Nation
This is Connected Nation – an award-winning podcast focused on all things broadband. From closing the Digital Divide to simply improving your internet speeds, we talk technology topics that impact all of us, our families, and our communities.
The podcast was honored in 2024 with an Award of Excellence for Podcast Series - Technology. This is the highest honor given by the Communicator Awards. The podcast also received an Award of Distinction in 2023 and the same in 2022.
Learn more about the national nonprofit behind this podcast at connectednation.org.
Connected Nation
What the federal agency dubbed "the Peoples' Department" is doing to connect rural America
On this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Farah Ahmad, who serves as the Chief of Staff in the office of the Under Secretary in USDA Rural Development who says they see their mission as "serving community first."
We'll discuss how the agency tackles the diverse needs of rural America, share details on funding opportunities for distance learning, telemedicine, and other projects—including what staff looks for in awardees—and ask “what’s next” as the Biden Administration takes action through the infrastructure plan to help those struggling without internet connectivity.
Related links:
Twitter: @UDSA and @usdaRD
Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/
USDA newsroom: https://www.rd.usda.gov/newsroom/news-releases
Remote learning and telehealth grants: Distance learning and telemedicine grants
USDA seeks public input to help create new rural renewable energy pilot program: head to this press release to learn more
