Governor Hochul unveils $50 million ‘ConnectALL’ digital equity plan to close New York’s digital divide

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled this week the $50 million New York State Digital Equity Plan to close New York’s digital divide.

The plan outlines New York’s statewide strategy to increase its capacity to improve digital literacy and digital job readiness skills, facilitate access to affordable internet and devices, enhance digital privacy and safety, and make government services more accessible through the internet.

“With the launch of New York’s Digital Equity Plan, we are bringing the state one step closer to closing the digital divide,” Governor Hochul said.

“Affordable, accessible broadband is essential for connecting New Yorkers to work, education, and vital government services, and I will continue to work closely with the Biden administration and New York’s congressional delegation to advance our ConnectALL initiative and ensure that New Yorkers can participate in our modern economy.”

The announcement follows the plan’s approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, making New York eligible to apply for a $36.8 million federal Capacity Grant to implement the Plan, and builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to making affordable broadband accessible to all New Yorkers.

Governor Hochul established the $1 billion ConnectALL Initiative – New York’s largest-ever investment in broadband access – to close the state’s digital divide, transform digital infrastructure, and ensure that all New Yorkers have access to reliable and affordable high-speed broadband internet service.

“Reliable broadband and proficiency with digital devices are necessities in today's tech-dependent world," said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

"I am proud to see Governor Hochul use funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to take another step toward closing the digital divide with the New York State Digital Equity Plan, which will address critical barriers to broadband access and promote digital literacy. I was proud to vote for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will continue to support measures that connect homes and communities across New York State until we close the digital divide once and for all.”

Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.