Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the re-release of the ConnectALL Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications, which will provide over $5 million in state funding to support digital equity and inclusion projects across New York. This move comes after federal funding for the program was cut by the Trump administration in May 2025. The grants aim to help New Yorkers access devices, develop digital skills, and increase awareness of affordable broadband services. Applications are open until August 25, 2025, through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application Portal.
Governor Hochul stated, “Digital access is essential for success in today’s world — whether it’s applying for a job, completing schoolwork, accessing health care, or staying connected to loved ones. In New York, we believe that access to affordable, reliable internet is a basic right, not a luxury. That’s why we are taking action to ensure every New Yorker has the tools, skills, and support they need to thrive in the digital age. No matter the challenges, we will continue forging ahead — investing in communities, strengthening partnerships, and delivering on our promise of a more connected and equitable future.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development added: “Digital equity is essential to economic mobility, educational access, and full participation in modern life. New York State remains unwavering in our commitment to ensuring that every community — urban, rural, and everything in between—can connect to the resources and opportunities the digital world offers. Through continued investment, strong partnerships, and innovative strategies, we are moving forward to close the digital divide and build a more inclusive future for all New Yorkers.”
The Governor also launched an information campaign about low-cost internet options available under New York’s Affordable Broadband Act (ABA), which requires providers to offer plans at $20 per month or less while providing enrollment assistance. The ABA is recognized as the nation’s first legally mandated low-cost broadband initiative.
The re-released grant opportunity under ConnectALL aims to address obstacles such as cost barriers and lack of skills or devices by increasing broadband subscription access; providing devices; expanding literacy programs; protecting privacy; and making government services accessible online.
ConnectALL plans to work with city and state agencies using various outreach methods including multilingual flyers and targeted text campaigns. There will also be a new $500,000 investment in 2-1-1 NY—a United Way subsidiary—to assist up to 10,000 low-income households outside New York City with screenings and guidance on reduced-cost internet service.
New York continues significant investment through ConnectALL—over $1 billion statewide—to expand broadband infrastructure and competition among providers so all residents have reliable high-speed internet access. Efforts include:
– Implementing a $50 million Digital Equity Plan focused on improving digital literacy skills and facilitating device access.
– Allocating over $242 million via the Municipal Infrastructure Program for municipal broadband networks funded by federal dollars from the American Rescue Plan.
– Bringing new infrastructure into affordable housing through an overall $100 million Affordable Housing Connectivity Program.
– Providing funding through the ConnectALL Deployment Program with $664.6 million from federal sources targeting unserved areas.
– Advancing technology innovation via programs supporting private sector investment.
– Developing public infrastructure like the Excelsior Broadband Network along major corridors such as the New York Thruway.
– Expanding cellular coverage through regional planning initiatives involving local stakeholders.
The ConnectALL initiative recently received national recognition when it was awarded NATOA’s Community Broadband and Digital Equity Award for legislative achievement in 2025.
More information about these efforts can be found on project dashboards at https://www.ny.gov/connectall-projects-dashboard-beta as well as details about provider application processes at https://broadband.ny.gov/deployment-program.
