WASHINGTON — The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) today has approved and recommended for award an application from Massachusetts, allowing the state to request access to more than $14.1 million to implement its Digital Equity Plan. This funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
This funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda. For a variety of reasons, many Americans struggle to use the Internet connection available to them—for example, some lack the skills to navigate online resources and protect their personal and financial information online; others cannot afford a computer or tablet at home.
Massachusetts will use this funding to implement its digital equity plan, which outlines how the state will empower individuals and communities with the tools and skills necessary to benefit from meaningful access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service.
“Quality, affordable high-speed Internet allows families and businesses to thrive in our modern economy. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Department of Commerce is connecting everyone in Massachusetts and across the country to quality, affordable high-speed Internet and providing the resources they need to make the most of that Internet connection,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “We look forward to working with Massachusetts to ensure residents across the state have the tools and skills to take advantage of quality, affordable high-speed Internet – whether it’s for work, education, health care, or any other essential service.”
This approval is from the first funding round of the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which made available more than $800 million for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Native Entities to apply for grants to implement their digital equity plans. These plans were developed under the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program. Awards of funding will require additional review and approval of State-submitted documentation.
“For the first time, every state in the nation has a digital equity plan in place to promote widespread adoption of high-speed Internet services. Massachusetts now can request access to the funds to put its digital equity plan into action,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson. “The Biden-Harris Administration’s Internet for All initiative will ensure everyone can thrive online through access to devices and digital skills.”
“Massachusetts is working to close the digital divide so that all residents can effectively leverage the internet to connect with others, access critical services and conduct their daily lives,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We thank NTIA for helping our state continue to close digital equity gaps in our most vulnerable communities. With these funds, we will be able to expand training, access and affordability for Massachusetts residents.”
“With this $14 million grant from NTIA, Massachusetts is taking an important step toward ensuring every resident has access to the digital tools and opportunities they need and deserve,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “Broadband is as essential as electricity or water, and thanks to the Biden-Harris administration, this funding will help make our state more connected and equitable.”
“High-speed internet access is essential to driving our economy, enabling students, businesses, and workers to meet their daily needs online,” said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “This critical investment will equip our communities with the tools, support, and training necessary to fully engage in the digital economy.”
“We know that reliable, high-speed, affordable internet service is not a luxury but an absolute necessity for our residents in the 21st century,” said Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey. “Thank you to Secretary Gina Raimondo, Administrator Alan Davidson, and all of our federal partners at NTIA for helping us realize our shared vision for internet for all and digital equity across Massachusetts.”
Massachusetts will use the $14,133,924 in funding to implement key digital equity initiatives, including:
- Provide free, in-unit Wi-Fi in public housing or in low-income neighborhoods;
- Provide Wi-Fi cellular hotspots to people who lack stable housing; and
- Secure new or used Internet-enabled devices that can be distributed to target populations to improve access to affordable devices.
Additional funding opportunities will be available in the future. NTIA will announce State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program awards from this first round of funding on a rolling basis.
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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.