State announces $15 million in grant funding for Digital Equity Plan
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Indiana is getting an influx of federal funding toward the state’s goal of making high-speed internet available to groups that are traditionally part of the digital divide.
The Indiana Broadband Office announced last week a $15 million influx of funding from the federal government’s Digital Equity Capacity Grant. The money comes on top of an $842,000 grant two years ago that helped the state develop its Digital Equity Plan.
The new federal money will go toward programs that execute that plan, which sets its main goal as “equipping Hoosiers with the skills, knowledge and resources to navigate the digital world.”
The plan emphasizes ways the state can bring internet access to groups that might struggle with access such as older residents, veterans, incarcerated people and those with learning disabilities.
Indiana Chief Broadband Officer Steve Cox said the funding will be a big help in the state achieving those goals.
“We are excited to see Indiana receive funding from the Digital Equity Capacity Grant,” Cox said. “This program will further bridge Indiana’s digital divide by supporting programming like digital literacy and internet affordability. With many services being delivered online, digital equity and accessibility are vital for participation in today’s society.”
The state’s digital equity plan was drafted by the IBO and approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) earlier this year.