On tribal broadband programs, NTIA plans to cut red tape, improve flexibility

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration announced Wednesday it will cut red tape from tribal broadband programs and strive to make them more flexible.

The NTIA said planned reforms will target the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program and a program funded through the the Digital Equity Act carved out for tribal communities. The agency said it will issue a new Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, and new guidelines for the connectivity program.

The NTIA said it will continue to award tribal governments their baseline funds under the equitable distribution grants, but any further infrastructure use and adoption grants will be awarded under the Trump administration’s new rules.

Funding for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program stems from two bills passed in 2021. Through two rounds of funding so far, it has awarded $2.2 billion to tribal governments.

The NTIA said it plans to release the NOFO next spring, and will make available any remaining tribal broadband funding, which is expected to total about $500 million.

The agency also said it will soon announce a formal tribal consultation opportunity that will allow tribal governments to provide input on the next funding round.

“NTIA’s goal is simple: stretch every dollar as far as possible to achieve universal Tribal connectivity and better serve Tribal communities’ needs,” Assistant Secretary of Commerce and NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth said in a press release. “This strategic realignment of our Tribal grant programs will reduce administrative burdens, prevent duplication, and ensure consistency across NTIA’s broadband initiatives. Most importantly, it will maximize the impact of this funding, helping to connect as many Tribal households as possible.”