Digital Opportunity Grants

To help achieve the state's goal to close the digital divide in North Carolina, the Office of Digital Opportunity has launched a series of grant programs.  

Digital opportunity is economic development. It includes access to affordable high-speed internet, access to high quality large-screen computers, and the digital skills training necessary to safely navigate the internet. It ensures people have the skills and technology needed to compete for jobs. 
 

Digital Opportunity Grant Program (Now Closed)

UPDATE: On Friday, May 9, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration terminated North Carolina’s $22.4 million Digital Equity Capacity grant. Without this funding, we are not able to move forward with the $17 million Digital Opportunity Grant program. 

The $17 million Digital Opportunity grant program was intended to develop and expand existing digital skills, digital navigation and online safety programs, as well as create a structured system for the provision and deployment of computers to increase ownership, help desk and technical support to those who need it most. Learn more.
 

Digital Champion Grant Program (Awarded June 2024; Closed)

We awarded $30 million to community service, nonprofit, higher education and regional organizations to help North Carolinians access and use high-speed internet. All projects will develop or expand programming to address at least one of the following elements:
•    Affordability of reliable high-speed internet
•    Provision of internet-enabled devices (computer, laptops, etc.) that meet users' needs
•    Access to digital literacy and skills training 
•    Quality technical support
•    Applications and online content designed to increase accessibility and inclusivity 
 

Digital Navigator Grant (Awarded May 2023; Closed)

We awarded $4 million for the state’s first digital navigator initiative to be used to help connect North Carolinians to services that aid with home connectivity issues, digital device use, digital skills acquisition, and affordable internet.
 

State Government Entities (Awarded January 2023; Closed)

We awarded $9.9 million to state government entities to develop or expand large-scale projects that can be deployed quickly.