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California Gets $70 Million From Federal Government To Get More Residents Online
A Broadband for All workshop in May
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California Department of Technology
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Topline:
California has won $70.2 million in federal grant money to achieve “digital equity.” That’s when all members of a community have equal access to the internet and other digital tools and skills. A draft version of the state’s Digital Equity Plan was released for public input in December. It identified barriers for eight groups including low-income residents and older adults.
Why it matters: An estimated 3.5 million residents don’t have internet access. The grant money will help connect more people and provide digital literacy skills training and apprenticeship opportunities.
Why now: Local agencies, nonprofits and other groups will get the chance to apply for grants later this year. Winners will be announced in 2025.
The backstory: Digital equity is a central part of Broadband for All, a multibillion dollar state and federal investment to expand broadband services by 2026.
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