Sens Collins, King Applaud $24 Million Investment to Expand Maine Broadband and Digital Skills Training

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Sens Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) are announcing the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is awarding $24.8 million to expand broadband and digital skills training across Maine. Awarded through the NTIA’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, this Maine funding will ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances. The grant program was signed into law under the Biden Administration through King’s bipartisan Digital Equity Act, and included in the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act, to provide $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion. The National Digital Equity Center (NDEC) based in Wiscasset will receive $13.7 million to expand access to digital skills training statewide and increase capacity of the State of Maine’s libraries and other community organizations to provide digital equity services, including telehealth. The Greater Portland Council of Governments will also receive $11.1 million to expand workforce development and digital literacy and cyber safety for seniors at community hubs among other goals.


Collins, King Applaud $24 Million Investment to Expand Maine Broadband and Digital Skills Training