The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has announced US$105,846,128 in grants awarded from the Internet for All initiative to five Tribal entities in Arizona.
The grants will fund high-speed Internet infrastructure deployment projects through the Internet for All Initiative’s Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program for Hopi Telecommunications, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona, San Carlos Apache Tribal Council/Triplet Mountain Communications and White Mountain Apache Tribe.
In all, the projects will connect more than 33,300 homes with the high-speed Internet connectivity necessary for learning, work and telehealth.
Vice President Harris said: “Our administration’s vision is to connect all native communities with the Internet and with the opportunity that comes along with access to affordable Internet — the opportunity to live healthier, happier and more prosperous lives. And we will continue to fight every day to make that vision a reality.”
Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, said: “This month the Biden-Harris Administration demonstrated that Tribal communities will not be left behind in connecting their communities to affordable and reliable high-speed Internet.
“Direct investment into Tribal communities is a crucial step in closing the digital divide in Indian Country while protecting local customs and traditions and creating new opportunities for global engagement and growth.”
