Iowa, others get NTIA funding for digital equity

​The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved funding applications for several states and territories, including Iowa, under the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program. Iowa will receive $8,442,129 to implement key initiatives aimed at improving digital equity across the state.

This funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative under President Biden's *Investing in America* agenda, a larger $1.44 billion effort to address barriers to digital access and inclusion. Many Americans face challenges such as a lack of Internet skills, affordability issues, and limited access to devices, which this program seeks to overcome.

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized that affordable, high-speed Internet is essential for modern life, benefiting education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Iowa’s digital equity plan, developed under prior NTIA funding, outlines actionable steps to empower residents and communities with tools and skills for meaningful Internet access.

This award could represent a significant step forward in ensuring digital equity across Iowa, as the state implements programs to address connectivity gaps, foster digital literacy, and expand opportunities for all residents.

How Iowa will spend their allocation is unclear. The Iowa Department of Management-Division of IT (DOM-DOIT) issued an RFI this fall asking for proposals from Iowa organziations on how to execute the state's goals. CBAN was one of the respondents to that RFI.

CLICK HERE to read the NTIA's news release on the latest funding awards.

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