2022 Digital Equity Grants
Applications for the next round of grants will open in 2023. The 2022 grants have been awarded. Subscribe to our digital equity or Seattle IT notice mailing list, follow us on social media, or check back here to find out about 2023 grants. If you have questions, see contact info below.
Technology Matching Fund
The Technology Matching Fund provides funds of up to $25,000 to qualifying non-profit ogranizations in Seattle for digital equity projects. City dollars are matched by the community's contribution of volunteer labor, materials, professional services, or cash. Projects should aim to increase internet access and adoption by:
- Empowering residents through digital literacy skills training and support.
- Ensuring affordable, available and sufficient devices and the support needed to use them effectively.
- Providing internet to low-income residents by expanding wi-fi or another means, and/or assisting with low-cost internet option awareness and enrollment support.
Proposals may include one area of service listed above or a combination of skills, devices and connectivity. Connectivity projects may include:
- Network routers, Wi-Fi access points, and repeaters
- Equipment to extend existing Wi-Fi outside of buildings
- Equipment to outfit a mobile Wi-Fi bus or van or other types of pop-up connectivity
- Indoor and outdoor free mobile internet solutions [for example, using public Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum].
- Portable internet hotspots
Applicants are encouraged to apply for either the Technology Matching Fund or Digital Navigator Cohort Grant. Please contact us if you have questions about which grant to apply for or need guidance on how to strengthen your proposal.
Deadline, Information Sessions and Office Hours
The 2023 application deadline has not been set yet and will be posted here when available.
The 2022 information session is available for viewing here: Digital Equity Grants Information Session #1 - YouTube
Contact:
For more information, contact communitytechnology@seattle.gov or call (206) 379-0469
Internet for All
These funds are a key part of the City's Internet for All framework. The lack of access to internet-accessible devices and technical skills play a significant role in why some residents remain unconnected. Partnering with organizations that support communities in a holistic way is essential for reaching diverse populations that need digital support. Read the City of Seattle's Internet For All Strategies and Action Plan here.