NTIA funding will particularly benefit vulnerable populations, including veterans, incarcerated individuals, and those facing language barriers, with a special focus on Gateway Cities and rural areas in Barnstable, Bristol, and Worcester counties
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved $14.1 million in funding to bolster digital equity programs across Massachusetts, aiming to bridge the digital divide and enhance internet access for underserved communities.
The funding, part of NTIA’s Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, supports key initiatives under the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), including the newly launched Launchpad program and the expansion of Municipal Digital Equity Planning and Implementation efforts. Together, these initiatives aim to improve internet access, provide digital literacy training, and distribute devices to vulnerable populations.
“This digital equity capacity grant will strengthen our efforts to connect communities, grow businesses, and help residents use the internet to advance themselves professionally,” noted Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll in the announcement.
MBI’s Launchpad program will receive $9.44 million to assist smaller nonprofits, community-based organizations, and municipalities in their digital equity efforts. Additionally, $1.44 million will support municipalities in crafting and implementing their digital equity plans, while other funds will update the statewide Digital Equity Plan and facilitate program evaluations.
“Massachusetts is working to close the digital divide so that all residents can use the internet to connect with others, access critical services, and conduct their daily lives,” Governor Maura Healey emphasized.
NTIA funding will particularly benefit vulnerable populations, including veterans, incarcerated individuals, and those facing language barriers, with a special focus on Gateway Cities and rural areas in Barnstable, Bristol, and Worcester counties.
This initiative follows the Biden-Harris administration’s recent allocation of $147 million for broadband expansion in Massachusetts under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.
For more information, visit broadband.masstech.org.
