Keaton PetersNearly $1 billion in grants is becoming available through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to fund programs that ensure communities have access to the internet and the devices and skills needed to fully participate in the digital world. The funding opportunity, part of the Digital Equity Act’s $1.25 billion Competitive Grant Program, is a significant step toward bridging the digital divide in America.
The funds “will make the promise of the Internet a reality for everyone in our country, no matter their background,” U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in a press release. “More families will be able to thrive in our modern economy by getting an education, expanding their businesses or staying connected to their communities online.”
Millions of Americans still lack reliable internet access or the skills and tools to use it effectively. This digital divide can prevent individuals from accessing essential resources, job opportunities, educational materials and even information during emergencies. By addressing these gaps, the program will ensure all Americans can fully participate equally in the increasingly digital economy and society.
The grant program is open to a wide range of applicants, including political subdivisions of states, Native American communities, nonprofits, local educational agencies and workforce development organizations. U.S. territories are also eligible to apply. Funded projects can include digital education programs, workforce development initiatives, deploying equipment and technology and the construction or operation of public access computing centers.
Most applications for the grant program are due by Sept. 23, 2024, with applications from U.S. territories applications due by Oct. 22. The NTIA expects to begin making awards on a rolling basis before the end of the year. Individual grant awards are expected to range from $5 million to $12 million, with NTIA encouraging proposals that demonstrate broad partnerships and the ability to administer resources effectively.
This Competitive Grant Program is part of the broader “Internet for All” initiative, which includes other significant funding opportunities such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. So far, more than 16 states have had their BEAD proposals approved, unlocking funds to expand broadband access. The digital equity funds, on the other hand, are intended to ensure the benefits of having the internet are accessible to all.
As an example of how these funds can be used, Nevada recently received $9 million in digital equity funding, becoming the first state to receive funds through the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program. Nevada plans to use this funding to address affordability and access by establishing public Wi-Fi and computer labs at community spaces. They also plan to establish a Device Distribution Matching Fund with the private sector. For digital literacy and skills, Nevada will develop a statewide framework for digital skills training curriculum, and fund digital literacy classes and on-demand technical support.
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communication and Information Alan Davidson emphasized the transformative potential of funding digital equity programs across the Nation: “From veterans to aging Americans to historically underserved minorities, everyone in America deserves the skills and connected devices they need to thrive in this modern digital world.”
Photo by Thomas Jensen on Unsplash
