The application deadline for a $1.98 billion rural broadband auction is March 30, according to a press release from the Federal Communication Commission.

The FCC is now taking applications from current and potential broadband providers, such as phone companies, fixed wireless providers, satellite providers, cable companies, and rural electric utilities.

The auction will make the $1.98 billion available across the U.S. over the next ten years to help build out high-speed Internet for up to 1 million homes and small businesses in rural areas that lack service.

According to a document on the FCC website, there are an estimated 215 homes and businesses in Lincoln County that would be eligible for the funding.

Local providers or potential broadband providers that would be elligible include Flathead Electric Cooperative, Montana Sky and Frontier.

More information about the FCC program can be found at www.fcc.gov/auction/903. Applications are located at auctions.fcc.gov.