WASHINGTON – The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has accepted California’s Digital Equity plan.
The Digital Equity Act, part of the Internet for All initiative and a key piece of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion. The program aims to ensure that all people and communities have the skills, technology, and capacity needed to reap the full benefits of our digital economy.
Using $4,001,520.00 from the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program, California created a plan aimed at addressing disparities in digital access, skills and affordability across the state.
All 50 States, D.C., and Puerto Rico have submitted their Digital Equity Plans to NTIA for acceptance. NTIA continues to accept plans on a rolling basis. On March 29th, 2024, NTIA launched the $1.44 billion Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program. Under the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), states and territories can apply for funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to begin implementation of their accepted digital equity plans.
In the coming months, NTIA will launch the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, which will make funds available to a variety of entities, including (for example) some political subdivisions of states, native entities, nonprofits, community anchor institutions, local educational agencies, workforce development organizations, as well as territories.
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About the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is the Executive Branch agency that advises the President on telecommunications and information policy issues. NTIA’s programs and policymaking focus largely on expanding broadband Internet access and adoption in America, expanding the use of spectrum by all users, advancing public safety communications, and ensuring that the Internet remains an engine for innovation and economic growth.