Securing Minnesota's Future with Digital Equity Capacity Funds

The Minnesota Office of Broadband Development (OBD) received over $12 million from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to implement its Digital Opportunity Plan using Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program funds. Through these funds, OBD aims to connect Minnesotans to digital equity information, resources, and––most importantly––each other. Broadly, these funds will be used to:

•  Pilot a Digital Opportunity Leaders Network to combine "local energy, regional expertise, and statewide continuity";
• Create a directory of Digital Opportunity resources; and
• Explore potential models for a program similar to the Affordable Connectivity Program, a statewide technology helpline, and a state-managed system to loan large-screen devices.

Here is how OBD plans to achieve its connectivity goals and set Minnesota up for a future of digital opportunity.