Contest to award millions to towns and cities to stimulate growth and revitalization

Communities in 27 states have a chance to earn millions of dollars to stimulate growth and revitalization as part of America's Best Communities, an initiative designed by Frontier Communications and DISH Network, says a press release from Frontier. The contest is open to all towns and cities in Frontier's service areas with populations between 9,500 to 80,000. Smaller communities can collaborate on projects.

Entrants are required to submit and implement their best plans for future growth and prosperity. "Judges will then select up to 50 qualified applicants in February 2015, each of which will be awarded $35,000 to develop their plans and proposals," the release said. These communities will then have seven months to refine and submit their final proposals in September 2015."

"Up to 15 semifinalists will be selected in November 2015, and will attend America's Best Communities summit in January 2016 to present their proposals," the release said. "In early 2016, eight finalists will be selected and will be awarded $100,000 each. The prize money awarded to the eight finalists will be used to implement the communities' plans and bring them to life, while sharing their stories—and successes—along the way." The top three proposals will be awarded a total of $6 million in grand prizes in Oct. 2017. The application deadline is Jan. 12, 2015. (Read more) (Frontier map of service areas)