Resources for Tribal Areas

Feb 18, 2025, - FCC data updates from December 2023 to June 2024 show where internet speeds are rising...and where they are falling.

Supporting and Advocating for Computer Science Education for Historically Underserved Students in Arizona.

The Arizona Broadband Map was created in partnership with Maricopa County, and made possible by ARPA funding, to provide insights into the current state of internet access and relevant socioeconomic factors and aid in identifying areas that could benefit from digital equity efforts.

January 6, 2025

NDIA celebrates all the organizations recommended for a Digital Equity Act Competitive Grant award today. This is an incredible moment for the United States – strengthening our global competitiveness by investing in the digital readiness of our people. All the prospective awardees, including NDIA’s 13 sub-grantees, are trusted institutions and experts at increasing reliable access to the internet and devices while providing digital skills training and support. 

The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) was established on January 22, 1959, to address the absence of utilities on the 27,000 square-mile Navajo Nation. Since then, NTUA has grown into a self-sustaining, not-for-profit, successful tribally-owned enterprise.

Dec 10, 2024

The promise of faster, more reliable internet for Apache County took a step forward on Nov. 26 with a ceremonial groundbreaking in St. Johns outside the Apache County Annex Building. The milestone marks the county’s broadband expansion project, which aims to connect nearly 3,200 homes and businesses in the area.

We Care Tucson provides individuals with access to information technology, medical equipment, and supplies. Through the restoration of donated computers and reusable medical devices, including the responsible recycling of non-functional components, we strive to cultivate an equitable and sustainable community in Southern Arizona.

EveryoneOn Arizona is a statewide organization that supports the sign-up process for the Affordable Connectivity Program. They assist individuals and families in applying for affordable internet plans, ensuring that everyone has access to essential online resources and opportunities.

The Arizona Telemedicine Program promotes telehealth services by facilitating access to healthcare providers, telemedicine networks, and training programs. They play a crucial role in advancing healthcare delivery through the use of technology and remote healthcare services.

GetSetUp is a virtual older adult learning platform that first focuses on the digital equity/inclusion, then after users understand their device we offer classes in physical health, mental health, workforce development as well as cybersecurity.

Mil Geospatial LLC, is a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) consulting firm, recognized as a small business and a minority owned enterprise located in Phoenix metro area.

The American Indian Policy Institute is home to the newly formed Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty, formed in partnership with the National Congress of American Indians. This Center is the first and only one in the nation dedicated to helping tribal governments, leadership, and communities understand the complexities of digital sovereignty. It provides access to resources and serves as a clearinghouse for tribal digital sovereignty. The center works towards the following goals and concepts: scholarship, capacity building, policy research and advocacy, and forming a coalition of organizations that work together to support tribes.

Jun 14, 2023

The Biden administration on June 12 announced it will send $714 million to help rural areas in 19 states connect to the internet, including $25 million for the Colorado River Indian Tribes.

The Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) has created a suite of BEAD application resources and an interactive mapping tool to help smaller ISPs be more competitive when applying for this historic funding.

This map from The Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) allows potential BEAD applicants to explore eligible project areas, view project areas funded by previous federal grants, and easily see existing ISP footprints in potential deployment areas. The tool is designed to support efficient initial assessments of eligibility by census block, and the creation of a high-level grant strategy based on that eligibility.

A collective public/private campaign aimed at eliminating the gap between Tucsonans who have access to telecommunications – and the educational, economic, and social advantages connectivity brings – and those who do not. A project fund of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, the coalition for Tucson Connected works together to deliver strategies that reduce and eliminate historical barriers to technology access and use.

T-Mobile has taken steps to address digital equity through its "Project 10 Million," which offers free internet access and mobile devices to eligible students and their families. The program aims to bridge the homework gap and provide equitable access to educational resources.

Sahuarita Food Bank is a community staple in southern Arizona. The Food Bank and family resource center provide local families with food services, financial and digital literacy training, coding and robotics classes, online safety training, digital navigator support, job search support and more. With a volunteer corps of more than 250 people, the Food Bank is one of the most trusted community anchors in the region. The organization recently launched project AZUL, a mobile digital literacy and skills training unit that brings service and support directly to rural communities.

The Rural Arizona Development Council supports rural development initiatives and addresses the unique challenges faced by rural communities in Arizona. They promote economic growth, community development, and the well-being of rural residents.

RefurbIT is an initiative of the ACHIEVE Enterprise Services, a full-service electronic recycling center that is an industry leader in converting obsolete computer electronics into reusable and refurbished products and provides refurbished IT equipment at discounted prices. RefurbIT serves Yuma, San Luis, Somerton, Wellton, Gadsden, Parker, Quartzsite, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Casa Grande, and Maricopa.

PCC offers a wide range of academic programs, from certificate courses to associate degrees. With a commitment to educational excellence and community engagement, Pima Community College provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education opportunities. The institution plays a pivotal role in workforce development, lifelong learning, and in helping students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

Maricopa Community Colleges provide digital literacy training and workforce development programs, including certifications and vocational training. They offer educational opportunities to enhance career prospects and meet the evolving needs of the job market.

Cox is committed to promoting digital equity through various programs and initiatives. One of their notable programs is Connect2Compete, which aims to bridge the digital divide by offering affordable internet access and devices to low-income families with school-aged children. Connect2Compete provides discounted internet service plans, digital literacy training, and access to affordable devices, ensuring that students have the tools and connectivity they need to succeed academically. Cox is a provider of the Affordable Connectivity Program and also works in collaboration with community organizations on STEM programs and engages in robust community outreach.

The Boys and Girls Club has a strong presence in communities across Arizona. They provide comprehensive support to young people, including digital literacy training and workforce development programs. Through their clubs and after-school programs, the Boys and Girls Club offers access to technology resources, mentors, and educational opportunities that equip youth with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the digital age.

AT&T has been involved in numerous initiatives related to digital equity. Through its "AT&T Connect All" program, the company aims to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable internet access and devices to underserved communities. AT&T also offers workforce training programs and supports STEM education initiatives.