FRED is a charitable organization established in 1989 by rural telephone companies like Granite State Communications to address the educational and developmental needs of rural areas. Over $75,000 in scholarships and grants are awarded each year to rural students.

Descriptions of available scholarships and grants are listed below. For more information and applications, visit the FRED website at www.fred.org.

Deadlines: Completed applications for FRED scholarships and grants should be sent to the following address by the dates below: Jennifer McLynch, Granite State Communications, PO Box 87, South Weare, NH 03281-0087.

• General Scholarships & Everette Kneece Scholarship: The application deadline for the 2012-2013 academic year has passed. Please check back this fall for application information for the 2013-2014 academic year. 
• Technology Grants: The application deadline for the 2012-2013 academic year is November 1, 2012, however completed application forms and documentation should be sent to the address above by October 12, 2012.  

FRED General Scholarships recognize outstanding students who have rural backgrounds, are interested in pursuing careers in the telecommunications industry, or show an interest in returning to rural America. The scholarships range from $1,000 - $5,000.

Everette Kneece Return to Rural America Scholarship is presented to one exceptional student who shows a desire to live and work in a rural community upon completing his/her education. The recipient will be awarded $5,000 to help defray the cost of tuition and books.

Technology Grants for Rural Schools are awarded to rural schools working to increase the use of technology in the classroom by utilizing new forms of technology to further enhance learning. This includes adding new programs and curriculum for technology education and purchasing new equipment. The grants range from $1,000 - $5,000.