City of Dallas receives multimillion-dollar grant to support digital inclusion initiatives

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas has been awarded an $11.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration to enhance digital inclusion efforts. This funding, allocated over the next four years, will support initiatives aimed at ensuring all Dallas residents have access to affordable internet, digital devices, and essential training. The grant underscores the city’s continued commitment to closing the digital divide and follows its recognition as a 2024 Digital Inclusion Visionary Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance.
Advancing Digital Inclusion Efforts
Dallas served as the lead applicant for the grant in collaboration with three community organizations and nonprofits. The funding will support a wide range of initiatives, including the continuation of the Digital Navigators program, which assists residents with digital literacy and connectivity challenges. Additional efforts will include direct utility assistance for broadband services, the development of digital literacy and workforce development programs, and providing digital equipment for incarcerated individuals.
The grant will also contribute to establishing a computer lab within a community center and investing in technology aimed at improving connectedness for older adults. These efforts aim to build upon digital inclusion programs initiated during the pandemic and further advance the Dallas City Council’s commitment to ensuring equal access to technology across the city.
District 5 City Councilmember Jaime Resendez, a long-time advocate for digital inclusion, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “This funding is a significant boost for the future of our community and marks a transformative step in ensuring every resident has access to the technology and connectivity essential for success. Thank you to everyone involved.”
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert highlighted the importance of such investments in the city’s growth, noting, “Grants such as this are vital to our efforts to become a recognized global city, one that addresses the foundational needs of residents by deploying resources for targeted economic growth and social impact. Together, with our partners, we are committed to ensuring that residents get and stay connected and prepared to succeed in an ever-evolving digital society.”
Recognition for Leadership in Digital Inclusion
The recent grant award aligns with Dallas’ ongoing efforts to foster a digitally inclusive environment. The city was recently named a 2024 Digital Inclusion Visionary Trailblazer, a recognition given to 60 municipalities nationwide for their commitment to improving digital accessibility. Dallas has been acknowledged for its impactful programs such as the Digital Navigators initiative, the Broadband and Digital Equity Strategic Plan, and its annual Digital Inclusion Week activities.
Angela Siefer, Executive Director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, commended the efforts of local governments in building inclusive digital ecosystems, saying, “NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents.”
Moving Forward with Connectivity Goals
The NTIA grant will significantly enhance Dallas’ ability to expand broadband access and address the digital needs of residents across the city. As the city advances these efforts, it remains focused on ensuring equitable access to technology for all citizens, fostering greater economic opportunities and improving quality of life.
Residents interested in learning more about digital inclusion initiatives in Dallas or exploring available resources can visit the National Digital Inclusion Alliance website at digitalinclusion.org.