Guides: Digital Divide in Texas: Funding

Funding Information and Records

Funding is widely available from the federal government and charitable foundations to support broadband infrastructure development and related activities and resources that enable connected communities.

Broadband Deployment: Status and Federal Programs (IF10441)
Congressional Research Service Report, June 6th, 2019, provided information on federal level funding and programs for expansion of broadband infrastructure.
BroadbandUSA - NTIA
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) BroadbandUSA program promotes innovation and economic growth by supporting efforts to expand broadband connectivity and meaningful use across America. BroadbandUSA serves state, local, and tribal governments, industry, and nonprofits that need to enhance broadband connectivity and promote digital inclusion.
Congressional Research Service (CRS) Reports on Broadband Access and Funding
CRS approaches complex topics from a variety of perspectives and examines all sides of an issue. This link will access reports from CRS on broadband initiatives and funding opportunities. CRS frequently provides updates on current issues.
Federal Broadband Funding Guide
Comprehensive guide to federal broadband funding released by Common Sense Media.
Grants by National Telecommunications and Information Administration
NTIA administers grant programs that further the deployment and use of broadband and other technologies in America, laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth; improved education, public safety, and health care; and the advancement of other national priorities. NTIA manages three broadband grant programs funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021: Broadband Infrastructure Program, Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, & Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Program.
Texas public libraries encouraged to apply for Federal Broadband Funding through state library
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) has announced the application window for federal E-Rate funding is now open from January 12 to February 22, 2022.

FCC announces over $5B in funding requests received in Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (InfoDocket): The Federal Communications Commission today announced that it has received requests for $5.137 billion to fund 9.1 million connected devices and 5.4 million broadband connections as part of the $7.17 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. The first filing window, which closed August 13, 2021, attracted applications from all 50 states, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S.
$7.2 Billion Federal Emergency Connectivity Fund Accepting Applications: The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 includes $7.17 billion for the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program. The ECF will provide funding for public and tribal libraries and K12 schools to purchase connected devices and broadband internet connections for use off of library and school grounds by library patrons, students, and teachers and staff who otherwise don’t have internet access.
Rural eConnectivity Program: The Rural Utilities Service, a Rural Development agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), hereinafter referred to as “RUS” or “the Agency” is issuing a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) to announce that it is accepting applications for fiscal year 2022 (FY 22) for the Rural eConnectivity Program (the ReConnect Program).

Grant Opportunities

Apply Now for Federal ECF Funding for Hotspots and Devices
Funding to help schools and libraries keep students, staff, and patrons connected during the COVID-19 health emergency.
Funding Information Network Libraries
Locate a Funding Information Network site nearby to search for grant opportunities through Candid, a database that connects nonprofits to foundation, federal, and state funding opportunities.
Spectrum Digital Education Grant

Digital Divide in Texas

Funding Information and Records

Grant Opportunities

Additional Links