The Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) this week said it is making $9.44 million available to entities that can address digital access gaps in the state. The new Launchpad Program is being funded through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program.
Funds will be granted to projects that expand Wi-Fi access, device distribution, digital literacy training, and internet adoption in the state. The program is open to organizations such as non-profits, community-based organizations, and municipalities.
The Launchpad Program aims to build upon the successful foundation laid by the six focus areas of the Digital Equity Partnerships Program.
These areas include providing connectivity for individuals facing economic hardship by distributing hot spots to low-income or housing-insecure individuals, distributing and refurbishing devices, promoting digital literacy, offering education, outreach and adoption support, modernizing internet infrastructure in public spaces, and enhancing Wi-Fi access.
Priority will be given to applicants whose intended projects will serve specific geographic regions of Barnstable, Bristol, and Worcester counties, including gateway municipalities and rural communities of Massachusetts. In addition, applicants that plan to serve vulnerable populations, such as incarcerated/formerly incarcerated individuals, residents with language barriers, and veterans, also will be prioritized by the Launchpad Program.
“The Healey-Driscoll administration is paying particular attention to historically overlooked communities. When we connect these residents with sufficient resources, tools and access, they will be able to fully participate in the digital economy,” Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao said in the announcement.
If selected for a Launchpad Program grant, applicants will be given two years to implement their proposed projects. Applicants must first submit a Concept Paper, due by April 25, 2025. Applicants who are notified by May 12 to submit a full application must do so by July 16, 2025.
As well as the opening of the Launchpad Program, $1.44 million has been allocated to the Municipal Digital Equity Planning and Implementation programs, which will soon open new application rounds statewide. The Planning Program offers free strategic planning for internet affordability, digital literacy, and device access. The Implementation Program provides grants of up to $100,000 to help municipalities execute their digital equity plans.
Municipalities should submit their applications for these programs by April 25, 2025.
Last month, the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) announced awards in the Gap Networks Grant Program, which provides for broadband to areas without service. Comcast Cable Communications Management won $11.3 million in broadband awards for construction in 93 Massachusetts communities. Verizon New England received $1.4 million for broadband construction in three towns.
Additional information about broadband in Massachusetts, including links to state funding resources, awards made, state-specific Telecompetitor coverage and more, can be found on the Broadband Nation webpage for the state.
