State of Maryland Launches New Digital Equity Initiative to Support Computer Labs and Centers

Computer Labs Program will expand public access to technology devices and high-speed internet

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (November 18, 2024) – Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day announced that applications are open for the Office of Statewide Broadband’s new Computer Labs Program. The new digital equity program will administer $2 million in grants to local governments and other partners to support the creation and expansion of computer labs and centers. Part of the Connect Maryland initiative to provide all Marylanders with affordable and equitable access to high-speed internet, these computer labs will provide public access to technology devices like computers and broadband for vulnerable and underserved Marylanders.

“Ensuring high-speed internet access for all takes more than just building network infrastructure and connecting homes and businesses. It requires expanding access to connected devices and educating people to use them effectively,” said Secretary Day. “For many vulnerable Marylanders, public computers may be their only option to go online, so it’s vital to make sure that option remains viable and sustainable. The Computer Labs Program will empower local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders to build and support these important facilities.”

The Computer Labs Program will provide grants of up to $65,000 for the construction of new computer labs or upgrading and retrofitting of existing labs and centers throughout Maryland. This grant opportunity will also fund up to $10,000 for the computer lab’s internet service subscription costs for up to three years.

The majority of those served by these facilities must be members of at least one or more of several underserved population categories, including: individuals with disabilities, homeless/unhoused individuals, veterans, and incarcerated/returning citizens. Eligible applicants include local governments or their designated agency, nonprofit organizations, and community-based institutions that serve those populations. The Computer Labs Program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and all federal rules related to the Act apply to the program.

“By supporting free, public access to devices and high-speed internet, the Computer Labs Program will help promote digital equity and literacy for underserved groups in our communities,” said the Office of Statewide Broadband Director Ronnie Hammond. “It expands and enhances the state’s ongoing Connect Maryland Initiative which has invested more than $350 million into infrastructure and equity programs and provided broadband access to an estimated 52,000 previously unserved homes and businesses statewide.”

Applications for the Computer Labs Program will close on Friday, November 29, 2024. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted via email to: osb.de@maryland.gov. For more information on the program and applicant requirements, visit the Office of Statewide Broadband Grant Programs page.