NTIA Opens Native Entities Grant Program Competition

Alongside the third round of the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration opened a companion Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Native Entities Grant Program—the dedicated set-aside for Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations under the Digital Equity Act. NTIA has set aside at least $250 million for this round, and applications are due the same day as TBCP's: September 17, 2026. Unlike TBCP, NEGP requires applicants to put up matching funds—at least 10 percent of the award, though NTIA will consider waiving some or all of that requirement for entities that can document financial need. For Tribes weighing whether to apply to TBCP, NEGP, or both, the matching fund requirement is one of the most consequential differences between the two programs, and it's easy to miss if you're reading quickly.