State-Wide Digital Equity Initiative
With funding from the NTIA, the State of Nebraska will be developing a plan to ensure Nebraskans have internet connectivity, devices such as laptops and smartphone, and the skills to meaningfully use internet technologies. The grant will also promote the use technologies such as telehealth and precision agriculture which are in the early stages of adoption and have the potential to significantly impact the lives of Nebraskans and the state’s economy.
The Nebraska Information Technology Commission (NITC)/Office of the CIO will be leading the planning effort with the assistance of the state’s regional economic development districts and the Nebraska Library Commission. The one-year grant is expected to start in October of 2022. States which complete plans can apply for $7.2 million or more in funding over 5 years to implement a state digital access, skills and opportunities grant program.
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By ensuring that Nebraskans have access to affordable, quality broadband, an appropriate device and the skills to use technologies at home, in school, or on the farm or ranch, in businesses, in health care, and in government, Nebraska will grow its economy and improve the lives of Nebraskans.
Broadband Assistance
Fast, reliable, high capacity fiber broadband service has quickly become vital for community and economic development. Remote work for many careers is now a reality while precision agriculture demands are ever-growing, making broadband service as essential as electricity to every home.
Rural broadband is important for:
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Attraction and retention of residents
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Greater economic growth
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Attraction of new businesses and small business growth
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Improved quality of life
It is important to act now to secure broadband service for rural Nebraskans while these resources are available.
First Steps
Meeting the broadband needs of the rural residents of Nebraska is a priority. Millions of state and federal dollars in broadband funding has been allocated to meet the unserved and underserved in rural Nebraska. WCNDD is here to support our region in securing broadband funds and connecting communities and counties with resources to best meet the diverse needs.
Call us so that we can better understand your broadband needs.
Consider conducting a Digital Needs Assessment of your area residents to have data to support the need for broadband expansion and funding.
Education and Resources Broadband Education
Bridging Nebraska’s Digital Divide – NROC’s State-Wide Resource Guide
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Leveraging Broadband In Your Community – A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development
Broadband Resources
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Nebraska Public Service Commission
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Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program (NBBP)
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Nebraska Broadband Mapping Project
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Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) Program
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National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) - Indicators of Broadband Need Map (arcgis.com)
6 Steps to Better Broadband
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Step 1: Get Organized
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Step 2: Gather Information
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Step 3: Build a Community Movement
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Step 4: Explore Strategies to Improve Broadband Services
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Step 5: Address Digital Inclusion and Skills Development
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Step 6: Develop and Implement a Plan