NTIA Opens $790 Million Tribal Broadband Funding Program

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will make $790 million available for broadband projects serving Tribal and Native communities. Applications are open through September 17, and the agency expects to begin awarding grants in spring 2027.

The funding includes $540 million for the third round of the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program and $250 million for the Native Entities Grant Program. Tribal governments, Tribal colleges, Native corporations, Tribal organizations, and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands are eligible to apply.

The grants can fund broadband construction, internet affordability programs, telehealth, distance learning, and other initiatives that expand broadband access and use on Tribal lands. The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program does not require matching funds.

NTIA will prioritize projects that improve broadband adoption and affordability before reviewing most standalone infrastructure proposals. The agency expects the funding to complement broadband networks being deployed through BEAD.