The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has awarded nearly $18 million to seven Tribal entities to enhance high-speed Internet access. The funding is part of the nearly $3 billion allocated to the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, which is a key component of the ‘Internet for All’ Initiative.

In the second round of funding for this program, nearly $1 billion was made available to support the deployment of Internet infrastructure on Tribal lands, as well as affordability programs, telehealth services, and distance learning initiatives. The nearly $18 million awarded will specifically support Internet adoption projects in Tribal communities.

The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program is funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, which allocated $980 million, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an additional $2 billion. Further grants will be announced on an ongoing basis.

Applicant Location Funding Amount Project Description
Atautchikun, LLC Alaska $7,338,679 The project will pre-pay qualifying broadband service for approximately 800 Tribal households, provide end-user devices to approximately 800 community members, and expand digital Tribal government services throughout the NANA region of Alaska.
Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation Washington $2,285,372 This project will create digital training opportunities at the Yakama Nation Library and reimburse service fees for qualifying broadband service for Tribal households, and establish community internet connection resources.
Native Village of Belkofski Alaska $623,184 The project will pre-pay broadband service for Tribal households, Tribal businesses, and community anchor institutions (CAIs) as well as distribute digital devices to tribal members that complete digital literacy trainings.
Native Village of Tetlin Alaska $822,866 The project will pre-pay qualifying broadband service for 50 Tribal households and 10 community anchor institutions throughout the Native Village of Tetlin.
Saddleback Communications Arizona $1,651,165 This project will improve broadband affordability and digital equity within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community by providing subsidies for broadband services and managed Wi-Fi, as well as offering digital literacy classes to residents.
Standing Rock Telecommunications, Inc. North Dakota $2,464,533 The project will pre-pay broadband services for tribal homes as well as purchase end user equipment for those that require it. Additionally, this project will collaborate with a Tribal College for the purposes of providing a student an opportunity to intern while in school.
Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians North Dakota $2,713,979 The project will pre-pay qualifying broadband service for 200 Tribal households, provide end-user devices to 100 community members and small businesses, and expand digital Tribal government services.