Thursday, May 2 2013 4:15PM

The USDA will provide more than $20 million in funding to extend broadband services to Montana.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a new project that will bring rural broadband services to Montana in its effort to facilitate economic community development. 

The agency will provide $26 million from its Rural Utilities Service, and the funding will go toward improving telecommunications services in the area. InterBel Telephone Cooperative, Inc., of Montana will receive more than $20 million in loans to update its networks and meet future growth requirements, the agency noted. 

"These loans will provide the necessary telecommunications services essential for rural economic development," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Broadband offers rural communities greater access to educational, health care, business and social services and opens the door to increased global competition. As part of the Obama Administration's goal to improve infrastructure, we continue to fund projects that expand broadband service in rural areas."

USDA has been focusing on expanding broadband services throughout rural America in an effort to open up opportunities for small businesses, schools and individuals. Access to information and faster services may enable rural businesses to compete more heavily with other companies that have greater resources. Over time, this may help rural companies become more profitable, which can promote job growth and sustainability. 

For more information, check out this resource: The U.S. Department of Agriculture