PSC Issues Precision Ag Grant Program

The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved an Order (C-5529) issuing the 2023-2024 Precision Agriculture Infrastructure Grant (PRO-AG) program schedule and application materials.

The Order (C-5529) implements the Precision Agriculture Grant Act, Neb. Rev. Stat.§ 86-1401- 86-1406 and paves the way for the awarding of nearly one million dollars in grants to accelerate rural economic development by helping to provide high-speed internet service to farm sites in unserved areas of Nebraska.

“This grant program is another opportunity to advance precision agriculture in our state with much needed connectivity and supporting technology,” said Commission Chair Dan Watermeier. “We look forward to seeing the innovative projects submitted through the application process.” 

The PRO-AG program is divided into two distinct subprograms, Connectivity, and Devices and Technology. Each subprogram is designed to fulfill a specific purpose. Applicants can submit multiple project proposals but must apply separately for each subprogram. Applications will be assessed individually. Each application will be considered on its own merits within the
subprogram in which it is filed.

 The available funding for the 2023-2024 fiscal year of $906,478 will be divided among the two subprograms with $453,239 in grant funding available for Connectivity and $453,239 available for Devices and Technology grants.

Application materials and a detailed program guide can be found on the Precision Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program (PRO-AG) page of the PSC website. Applications for the 2024 program year are due on or before, February 23 at 5:00 p.m. (CT) and should be emailed to <psc.broadband@nebraska.gov >.  Grants will be awarded by the end of April.