UPDATE, October 10: The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced today that it has received more than 700 applications seeking more than $6.5 billion for the first round of the Digital Equity Act’s Competitive Grant Program funding.
The $6.5 billion request is more than six times the original $1 billion set aside for the first round of Competitive Grant Funding (see original story below).
“The overwhelming interest in our digital equity funding underscores the urgent need for access to digital resources in communities across the country,” said NTIA Administrator and Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information Alan Davidson in today’s announcement.
Applications for the first round of Competitive Grant Program funding were due September 23.
Original Story Follows
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) today announced the first Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) from the Digital Equity Act’s Competitive Grant Program.
The Competitive Grant Program is intended to help Americans who don’t have adequate broadband service gain the digital skills they need to apply for work, learn, and navigate the online world.
Applications are due September 23, 2024. Eligible organizations for the Competitive Grant Program include local governments, Tribal entities, some nonprofits and community anchor institutions, and certain organizations focusing on education and workforce development.
The NOFO is found on the NTIA website.
According to an NTIA statement, the Competitive Grant Program will “fund programs that ensure communities have access to devices and skills needed to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances.” This may include training programs, online learning opportunities, and other digital literacy initiatives.
The NTIA announced the funding opportunity via a call with the press Tuesday morning.
“With additional access and expanded skillsets, 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,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
“Our pursuit of digital equity and inclusion can ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or location, has access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet service and digital skills,” said Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves. “The Commerce Department’s Internet for All programs will help millions more Americans succeed, prosper, and lead lives of dignity.”
The Digital Equity Act is funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As of April, all 50 states — plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. — had approved digital equity plans.
