The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has awarded Maine more than $5.7 million to implement its Digital Equity Plan. This funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Maine will use this funding to equip individuals and communities with the tools and skills needed to access affordable, high-speed Internet. Many residents face barriers such as limited digital literacy or financial constraints, and this investment aims to bridge that gap.
This award is part of the first funding round of the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which allocated over $800 million for states, U.S. territories, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, and Native entities. These grants require further review and approval before funds are released.
Maine will use the $5,784,349 to implement key digital equity initiatives, including:
- A comprehensive digital opportunity program that supports Internet access, digital skills training, and Internet safety education.
- A statewide campaign to collect and refurbish donated devices.
- A public awareness initiative to promote Tech Help for ME, a new online directory of digital resources.