Native Entities Grant Program
🏛 DOC NIST ERA
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Jul 15, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for Native Entities working on digital equity. Eligible applicants include Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations. Partnerships and consortiums between eligible entities may also apply. The program funds activities that advance digital equity and inclusion for underserved populations.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
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Program description
NTIA is soliciting applications for the Native Entities Grant Program (“Program”), authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, Division F, Title III, Public Law 117-58, 135 Stat. 429, 1209 (November 15, 2021) (codified at 47 U.S.C. §1701, 1721, et seq.) (the “Digital Equity Act of 2021” or “Act”). The Act authorizes two programs that set aside funds for Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations (collectively “Native Entities”): the “State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program” and the “Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program.” To reduce administrative burden and cost, NTIA is releasing the funds for both programs through a single application process.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Organization documentation proving Native Entity status
- Project narrative describing digital equity activities
- Budget and cost share documentation
- Letter of authorization or tribal council approval
- Letters of support from partners (if consortium)
Program contact
- 👤 Misty L Roosa Grantor
- 📧 shanell.williams@nist.gov
- 📞 301-975-3007
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 11.036 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$25,766,653
-
$10,722,300
-
$7,946,564
-
$204,575
Top States by Funding
- OH 1 awards $25.8M
- NV 1 awards $10.7M
- AK 1 awards $7.9M
- NY 1 awards $0.2M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 11.036). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2025 | $52,881,724 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, Native Hawaiian organizations, and partnerships between these entities. Consortiums of eligible entities can also apply.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline is September 17, 2026.
What does this grant fund?
The grant supports digital equity initiatives authorized by the Digital Equity Act of 2021, including capacity building and competitive grant programs for Native Entities.
Is cost sharing required?
Yes, cost sharing is required. You must contribute funds or resources alongside the grant.
Can tribal consortiums apply?
Yes, partnerships and consortiums between eligible Native Entities can submit applications together.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Clearly document your organization's eligibility status as an Indian Tribe, Alaska Native entity, or Native Hawaiian organization early in your application.
- Detail how your digital equity project will serve underserved or unserved populations in your service area.
- Budget your cost share carefully and identify funding sources before submitting.
- If applying as a consortium, establish clear governance and define each partner's responsibilities upfront.
- Review the full NOFO Section III thoroughly for all specific eligibility and documentation requirements.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to clearly establish organizational eligibility as a recognized Native Entity. Not identifying adequate cost sharing sources before applying. Submitting vague project descriptions without specific digital equity outcomes or service areas.
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