Dallas, TX- The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has awarded the City of Dallas an $11.1 million grant to bridge the digital divide. The grant will be awarded over the next four years to bolster the City's efforts to close the digital divide and ensure that all Dallas residents have access to affordable internet, devices, and digital skills training. This comes on the heels of the City's recognition as a 2024 Digital Inclusion Visionary Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) for the second consecutive year.
The City served as a lead applicant among a coalition of three community organizations and nonprofits to secure the $11.1 million grant, which will support a variety of digital inclusion initiatives, including the continuation of the Digital Navigators program, direct utility assistance for broadband services, the creation of digital literacy and workforce development curriculum and provision of digital equipment for incarcerated individuals, supporting a computer lab in a community center, and investing in technology to help connectedness for older adults.
This funding will build upon the foundational work that began during the pandemic and will further Dallas' ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide, which has been a targeted effort of the Dallas City Council.
"This funding is a significant boost for the future of our community and marks a transformative step in ensuring every resident has access to the technology and connectivity essential for success," said District 5 City Councilmember Jaime Resendez, a long-time advocate for bridging the digital divide. "Thank you to everyone involved."
"Grants such as this are vital to our efforts to become a recognized global city, one that addresses the foundational needs of residents by deploying resources for targeted economic growth and social impact," said Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. "Together, with our partners, we are committed to ensuring that residents get and stay connected and prepared to succeed in an ever-evolving digital society."
This announcement follows the City's recognition by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance as one of 60 municipalities nationwide awarded the 2024 Digital Inclusion Visionary Trailblazer title. The recognition highlights the Dallas' commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive community through initiatives such as the Digital Navigators Program, the Broadband and Digital Equity Strategic Plan, and Digital Inclusion Week activities.
"In the past decade, we've seen local governments step into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, where organizations that provide services can connect and thrive," said Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director. "NDIA's Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents."
The NTIA Grant will further enhance the City's ongoing efforts to provide broadband access and support for the digital needs of Dallas residents. As the city continues to move forward, it remains dedicated to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.
For more information on the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, visit digitalinclusion.org.
About the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA):
NDIA advances digital equity by supporting community programs and equipping policymakers to act. Working with more than 1,900 digital inclusion practitioners, NDIA advocates for equitable broadband access, tech devices, digital skills training, and tech support. Learn more at digitalinclusion.org.
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