Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program
The goal of the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program is to fund initiatives that ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances. This program will complement digital equity activities funded by the Capacity Grant Program.
This is the first funding opportunity from the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, the third of the three Digital Equity Act programs. The Digital Equity Act provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion.
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Below you can find links to helpful materials as you develop and submit your application. We will continue adding materials, so bookmark this page and check back frequently for updates.
Who will be eligible for funding?
Eligible entities include:
- A political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of a State, including an agency of a State, including an agency of a State that is responsible for administering or supervising adult education and literacy activities, or for providing public housing, in the State;
- An Indian Tribe, an Alaska Native entity, or a Native Hawaiian organization
- A foundation, corporation, institution, or association that is not-for-profit entity and not a school;
- A community anchor institution;
- A local educational agency;
- An entity that carries out a workforce development program; or
- A partnership between any of the entities described in paragraphs (1) through (6). 47 U.S.C. §1724(b).
For additional details, check out 47 USC 1724: Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program (house.gov).
NTIA Grants Portal
Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program (2024)
Get Ready Materials
Get tips on how to prepare for the upcoming funding opportunity.
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
This Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) solicits applications for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, the third of three digital equity programs authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.
Application Resources
Here you can find a variety of materials to help stakeholders more easily apply for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program.
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Celebrating Disability Pride Month by Embracing Inclusion and Accessibility
By: Philip Powell, NTIA’s Federal Program Officer for Arkansas and Oklahoma
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it’s crucial to recognize the achievements, contributions, and resilience of individuals with disabilities. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in every aspect of our society, especially in the digital realm.
On a personal note, Internet access has a huge impact on my life. I am Deaf and have first-hand experience with how high-speed Internet assists the disability community. I visit my audiologist annually to ensure my cochlear implant is working properly, I’ve used the same doctor in Alabama for over two decades. She can now make adjustments remotely and conduct the visit via high-speed Internet. I no longer have to take two or three days away from work and family to drive to Alabama for one visit.
At NTIA, the ADA continues to guide our progress as we move closer to the promise of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for the 61 million individuals with disabilities in our country. Our communities grow stronger when all people can access the Internet, public accommodations, employment, transportation, and community living regardless of disability.
ACP Small Provider Participation Guide
Overview:
Digital Equity Act at a Glance
The third grant program funded by the Digital Equity Act of 2021 is the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program. The information below can guide organizations as they Get Ready to prepare their applications.
Understanding the DE Competitive Grant Program: What You Need to Know
The Digital Equity Act programs focus on empowering those most impacted by the digital divide, referred to as “Covered Populations.” The Covered Populations are: