July marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, highlighting the ongoing need for inclusivity and accessibility in society, particularly in the digital sphere. Individuals with disabilities frequently face challenges to digital equity, such as obtaining affordable assistive technologies, navigating inaccessible websites and digital content, and accessing reliable Internet service.
The Digital Equity Act of 2021 allocated $2.75 billion to the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to create three grant programs aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities and other groups by providing affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service along with connected devices and necessary digital skills.
This month, NTIA announced the first funding opportunity from the Digital Equity Act’s $1.25 billion Digital Equity Act Competitive Grant Program, releasing nearly $1 billion in funding. Local government units, Tribal entities, and other stakeholders are invited to apply for funding to help reduce barriers to digital equity within their communities. In addition to people with disabilities, these programs aim to assist low-income households, aging populations, incarcerated individuals, veterans, people facing language barriers, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural residents.
To support applicants seeking funding, NTIA has provided a guide on effective digital inclusion practices for serving individuals with disabilities. This guide includes personal stories from people with disabilities about how they have gained independence through assistive technologies.
Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, the three Digital Equity Act programs are part of the Internet for All initiative under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda.
The Department of Commerce emphasizes that America’s diversity is its greatest strength and remains committed to creating an economy that benefits all Americans. Further information on the Administration’s equity work can be found at whitehouse.gov/equity.
