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This document was created to support applicants in applying for the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program: Native Entities (2024), hereto referred to as the NE Capacity & Planning Grant Program. The NOFO establishes a competitive process to make both State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program funds and State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program funds available to Native Entities to carry out digital equity and inclusion activities consistent with the Digital Equity Act.

The Digital Equity Act makes funds available for a variety of digital equity related purposes. The information below can help Native Entities (Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations) to understand the various funding opportunities available and their role as outlined by statute.

What is the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program?

Previously, the State Digital Equity Planning Grant provided States and Territories funds to develop Digital Equity Plans. This second Program will make funds available to put the Digital Equity Plans into action. States and Territories must ensure they are reaching all of the Covered Populations within their jurisdiction.

Note: Certain Native Entities are also eligible to apply for Capacity Grant and Planning Grant funding through a competitive process.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will transform the landscape of high-speed Internet in America, improving access to health care, education, and civic engagement while connecting families and communities across the country. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the Department of Commerce supports the Administration’s commitment to equitable and highly skilled jobs in shaping the future of the high-speed Internet workforce.