CONTACT
Jonathan Yang
Marketing and Communications Manager
SETDA
[email protected]

SETDA Statement on the Termination
of Federal Digital Equity Grants

May 14, 2025 (Washington, DC) – On Friday evening, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) terminated Digital Equity Act planning and capacity grant agreements for at least 20 states, including Connecticut, Illinois, Nevada, Alaska, Maine, Vermont, New Jersey, North Carolina, and North Dakota. These actions threaten to undermine critical efforts underway to close the digital access divide–not only for K-12 students, but also for veterans, older adults, rural communities, and families navigating essential digital opportunities and services.

SETDA stands with our state members and partner organizations who have been diligently building inclusive broadband and digital access plans rooted in community need, engagement, and systemic transformation. Equitable access to technology is not a partisan issue–it is a public good. When all individuals have the tools, infrastructure, and skills to fully participate in modern society, everyone benefits.

This decision poses a significant setback to SETDA’s Universal Connectivity Imperative, our national call to action that recognizes internet access as essential infrastructure for learning, workforce readiness, and civic participation. We remain steadfast in our commitment to a future where every learner, in every zip code, has the connectivity and support they need to thrive.

We urge federal and state leaders to restore and reaffirm their commitment to universal access and invite those across sectors to join us in advancing this vital work.

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About SETDA

SETDA is the principal association representing U.S. state and territorial educational technology and digital learning leaders. Through a broad array of programs and advocacy, SETDA builds member capacity and engages partners to empower the education community in leveraging technology for learning, teaching, and school operations.

For more information, please visit our website setda.org or follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter/X.