NTIA recommends allocation of over $276 million to 44 Tribal entities for high-speed internet

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has recommended the allocation of over $276 million to 44 Tribal entities to enhance high-speed Internet access and adoption.

This funding is part of the nearly $3 billion Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, which supports the ‘Internet for All’ Initiative. These grants come from the program’s second round of funding, which has nearly $1 billion designated for Internet infrastructure deployment, affordability initiatives, telehealth, and distance learning projects on Tribal lands.

Awards will be issued following budget review and processing. The funding amounting to $276.2 million will support both Internet infrastructure development and adoption projects across Tribal lands.

The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program is financed through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 ($980 million), and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ($2 billion). Additional grants will be announced on an ongoing basis. Currently, projects have been completed or are under construction in 27 Tribal communities, providing over 4,600 households with free or low-cost high-speed Internet access.