Love In Action: Strengthening Rural Communities Through Grant Opportunities

February is the month of love, and BEK believes that real love is shown through action. That’s why we remain committed to investing in the towns and people we serve, not just this month, but all year long.

Throughout the year, we receive many requests for sponsorships and donations from local groups and organizations. We love seeing that passion, but there’s an even better way to help these great ideas grow.

We encourage community-owned businesses, facilities, and non-profit projects within the BEK Cooperative Service areas to apply for one of our two grant opportunities: the BEK Community Partnership Grant and the FRS Community Grant.

The Community Partnership Grant was created through the BEK Community Partnership Program (CPP) to support projects in the communities served through the cooperative. The program is designed to help meet the needs of today while preparing for the needs of tomorrow. The BEK Board of Directors reviews all applications and selects recipients each Spring and Fall.

The FRS (Foundation for Rural Services) Community Grant offers annual funding for projects that improve the quality of life in rural America. As a member of the NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association, BEK communities have access to this unique opportunity. Recipients are chosen by the FRS once a year in early December.

As a cooperative, BEK has established guidelines we must follow as far as giving. To make the most impact and support projects fairly, we encourage interested groups to read through the grant applications and learn more about the available requirements and opportunities.

This month, while we celebrate kindness and connection, we invite you to spread the word. Share these grant opportunities with organizations in your town, and encourage them to apply.

To learn more about each grant opportunity, and to apply, visit https://www.bek.coop/coop/grants.

Together, we can build stronger, more connected communities, right here at home.