2026-27 Digital Divide Grant Program Round 4

The Digital Divide Grant Program is administered by the California Public Utilities Commission and was established under California Public Utilities Code Section 280.5 to address disparities in access to digital technology and broadband connectivity. The program is funded through a percentage of fees collected from the lease of certain state-owned properties to wireless telecommunications providers. As part of California broader Broadband for All initiative, the program supports targeted efforts to expand equitable access to internet infrastructure, devices, and digital literacy resources for underserved populations, particularly in low-income school communities. The primary purpose of the Digital Divide Grant Program Round 4 is to fund projects that bridge gaps in broadband access, affordability, and digital readiness for students and communities. The program emphasizes holistic solutions that integrate connectivity, hardware, curriculum, and training. Eligible projects may include expanding broadband connections, providing devices such as laptops or hotspots, implementing digital learning software, and offering training programs that improve digital literacy among students and community members. The initiative specifically targets schools located in low-income urban or rural districts, with eligibility tied to a minimum threshold of 50 percent participation in free and reduced-price meal programs. Funding for this round includes up to three awards, structured across different applicant types. One grant of up to one hundred thousand dollars is designated for eligible schools, while two grants of up to fifty thousand dollars are available for community-based organizations. These organizations must demonstrate a track record in addressing the digital divide and are required to partner with an eligible public school or district to deliver the project. The funding is intended to support comprehensive solutions and does not specify a required matching contribution, indicating that applicants are not obligated to provide cost sharing. Eligibility is limited to low-income public schools and nonprofit community-based organizations. Schools must be located in California and meet the income-based criteria defined by meal participation rates. Community-based organizations must collaborate with an eligible school or district, with the school serving as the beneficiary of the funded project. The program prioritizes applicants that demonstrate strong alignment with program goals, measurable outcomes, and the ability to implement sustainable digital access solutions. The application process is competitive and follows procedures outlined in California Public Utilities Commission resolutions governing grant administration. Applicants must submit materials during the open application period, which for this round runs from July 1, 2026 through October 30, 2026. Following submission, applications undergo staff review and scoring, with final awards announced in early January 2027. Successful applicants are then required to adhere to reporting timelines, including a progress report due June 1, 2027 and a completion report due January 5, 2028. The evaluation of applications is conducted by Commission staff based on established criteria, including project feasibility, impact on digital equity, and alignment with program objectives. The Commission has adopted a ministerial review process for qualifying applications in future cycles, streamlining approval for projects that meet predefined requirements. Applicants seeking additional guidance or clarification may contact the program directly via the official email address. The program is expected to continue as part of California ongoing efforts to expand broadband access, suggesting potential recurrence in future fiscal years.