The United States Department of Commerce’s National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is
seeking input on how to structure nearly $2.7 billion in grant
programs to ensure everyone in America has the digital skills and
devices they need to realize the full potential of high-speed
Internet access.
This request for comment is part of NTIA’s larger strategy to
hear from a diverse set of voices while implementing high-speed
Internet grant programs. NTIA requests feedback on the design,
rules, and evaluation criteria for both digital equity programs
identified in the bullets below.
The State Digital Equity Capacity Grant program will fund
implementation of state and territories’ digital equity plans,
which will identify barriers in communities to achieving full
participation in the digital economy, and strategies to overcome
those barriers.
The Competitive Digital Equity Program will fund
organizations including schools, libraries, nonprofits and others
offering digital inclusion activities and promoting internet
adoption. NTIA will establish the Competitive Digital Equity
Program after it begins awarding funds from the State Capacity
Grant Program.
