Submit Applications for Community Telecommunications Grant 2026

The Community Telecommunications Grant (CTG) provides funding for community-led telecommunications and ICT projects that support local development and economic growth. Administered by the TRBR, the grant prioritizes sustainable, inclusive initiatives that benefit communities of at least 100 people, with funding of up to Vt1,500,000 per project.

The Community Telecommunications Grant (CTG) is a funding program designed to support community-driven telecommunications and information and communication technology (ICT) initiatives.

The grant focuses on empowering local communities through sustainable ICT infrastructure, services, and training that enhance social inclusion, economic participation, and long-term community development.

Overview

The CTG supports projects that integrate telecommunications and ICT solutions into local communities to address priority needs and strengthen the local economy.

Rather than short-term assistance, the grant emphasizes long-lasting, community-backed projects that demonstrate clear benefits, local ownership, and sustainability.

Key Objectives of the CTG

The Community Telecommunications Grant aims to:

Improve access to telecommunications and ICT infrastructure
Support digital skills development and ICT training
Strengthen community connectivity and participation
Encourage sustainable, community-owned technology solutions
Promote economic growth and social inclusion through ICT

Funding Amount and Grant Limits

The Telecommunications and Radiocommunications Board (TRBR) allocates a maximum of Vt3,000,000 annually for the CTG program.

Key funding details include:

Maximum grant per project: Vt1,500,000
Funding available once per year
Grants are provided only to eligible community-led projects
Individuals are not eligible to apply

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for CTG funding, applicant communities must meet all of the following criteria:

Be not-for-profit community groups
Be incorporated or supported by an incorporated organization
Be open to the public and inclusive
Be non-discriminatory in nature
Serve a minimum population of 100 people
Propose projects that commence after the official grant start date
Demonstrate clear community support and involvement

Eligible Project Types

CTG funding may be used for projects that focus on:

Telecommunications or ICT infrastructure development
Community-based ICT services
Digital literacy and ICT training programs
Technology initiatives that support local economic activity
Sustainable ICT solutions tailored to community needs

Ineligible Projects and Activities

CTG funding will not be provided for projects that:

Duplicate existing telecommunications or ICT services
Cover routine or day-to-day operational expenses
Fund capital works or major equipment purchases
Do not address identified priority community needs
Have already commenced before the grant announcement
Are run by individuals rather than community organizations

Organizations and Activities Not Eligible for Funding

The following are not eligible to receive CTG funding:

Commercial businesses and sole traders
Fundraising activities
Political or religious activities
Government agencies
Individual applicants

Why the Community Telecommunications Grant Matters

Access to telecommunications and ICT is essential for modern community development.

The CTG plays a critical role by:

Reducing the digital divide in underserved communities
Supporting local innovation and entrepreneurship
Enhancing access to information, education, and services
Strengthening community resilience and connectivity
Ensuring ICT investments deliver long-term value

How the Grant Works

Communities seeking CTG funding should follow these steps:

Identify a priority telecommunications or ICT need within the community
Ensure the project benefits at least 100 community members
Confirm eligibility and not-for-profit status
Develop a project plan focused on sustainability and community involvement
Ensure the project has not started before the grant commencement date
Apply within the funding limits set by the TRBR

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying as an individual rather than a community organization
Proposing projects that replicate existing services
Including capital works or equipment purchases in the budget
Starting the project before grant approval
Failing to demonstrate community support or sustainability
Ignoring eligibility and population requirements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Community Telecommunications Grant?

The CTG is a funding program that supports community-led telecommunications and ICT projects aimed at sustainable local development.

Who administers the CTG?

The grant is administered by the Telecommunications and Radiocommunications Board (TRBR).

How much funding can a project receive?

Each eligible project can receive up to Vt1,500,000, subject to the annual funding cap.

Can individuals apply for the CTG?

No. The grant is strictly available to eligible community organizations, not individuals.

Are equipment purchases allowed under CTG funding?

No. Funding cannot be used for capital works or major equipment purchases.

When must projects begin?

All funded projects must commence after the official grant commencement date.

Can commercial organizations apply?

No. Commercial entities, sole traders, and government agencies are not eligible.

Conclusion

The Community Telecommunications Grant (CTG) is a vital funding opportunity for communities seeking to strengthen connectivity, digital skills, and local economic participation.

By prioritizing inclusive, sustainable, and community-led ICT initiatives, the CTG ensures that telecommunications investments deliver meaningful and lasting benefits for local populations.