The Estonian Ministry of Justice and the State Support Services Center (RTK) have announced the opening of a funding application round to create electronic communications networks with very high capacity in rural areas. This initiative, supported by European Union structural funds, seeks to provide fast and reliable internet access to residents and businesses in Estonia's rural regions and small municipalities. As a result of this measure, at least 10,000 addresses will have the opportunity to connect to the internet.

One of the significant changes introduced in the new measure is the focus on the tangible results of bringing broadband service to rural areas. Justice and Digital Minister Liisa Pakosta highlighted that the evaluation process will now consider where the network infrastructure will be implemented. Unlike previous funding practices that might have supported cable installation to buildings that did not ultimately connect to the service, the new approach emphasizes achieving real connectivity. Pakosta remarked that taxpayer money should bring about genuine improvements in connectivity rather than funding infrastructure that exists only on paper.

The initiative marks a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide in Estonia, ensuring that rural communities are not left behind in the digital transformation. By creating substantial broadband access, the project aims to foster economic growth, improvement in the quality of life, and better opportunities for remote work and education in these less populated areas. This funding could ultimately have significant socio-economic impacts in Estonia, ensuring all citizens can benefit from the digital economy.