Digital Opportunity in Indiana
Connecting the Unconnected
The Digital Equity Act is a federal act that provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that aim to ensure that all people and communities have the skills, technology, and capacity needed to reap the full benefits of our digital economy. These three programs are administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) across all 56 states and territories.
These programs include:
- State Digital Equity Planning Grant: a $60 million grant program to facilitate planning for states, territories, and tribal governments
- State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program: a $1.44 billion grant program for states, territories, and tribal governments to implement elements of their plans
- Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program: a $1.25 billion grant program to fund initiatives that ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances.
| Indiana was awarded $842k in 2022 as part of the Digital Equity Planning Grant to fund the creation of the state's first digital opportunity plan. | Indiana's plan, developed in collaboration with the Purdue Center for Regional Development was accepted by the NTIA in April 2024. | Indiana was allocated $15 million in Digital Equity Capacity Grant Funding to implement elements of the state's plan |
|---|
Digital Equity Capacity Grant
The Indiana Broadband Office Digital Opportunity team is pleased to announce that the Digital Opportunity Subgrantee Application opens on April 30, 2025.
This program provides funding opportunities to eligible entities using the $15,096,770 Digital Equity Capacity Grant allocation awarded by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) in December 2024.We are expecting to fund a broad range of programs that promote increased internet adoption and availability in Indiana communities.
Who can apply?
- community anchor institutions such as libraries, schools, universities & hospitals
- county and municipal governments
- nonprofit organizations
- state agencies that administer adult education & literacy activities
- public housing authorities in the state
- a partnership between any of these entities
How to apply:
Entities interested in applying should register for a Unique Entity ID (UEI) at SAM.gov. This process is required for anyone receiving federal grant funding.
It can take weeks, so we encourage you to do it as soon as possible! Plan to engage in local planning efforts and coalition-building to get a sense of your area’s digital needs. This is the best way to ensure that your application meets the needs of Hoosiers!
Visit the IBO’s Digital Opportunity page to read our plan and get the most up-to-date information on the subgrantee process.
We want to meet with you!
Email IndianaBroadband@iot.in.gov to hear from one of our office’s Digital Opportunity Advisors between now and the application opening date (April 30). We are currently planning in-person and virtual presentation opportunities.
Also don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates on timelines and application instructions.
Indiana’s Digital Equity Plan
Indiana’s Digital Equity Plan is a five-year plan that will serve as the first-ever statewide digital opportunity plan. The Digital Equity Plan was posted online for a 30-day public comment period.
