$400,000 in Funding Available to Help Close the Digital Divide

Community organizations across the Greater Capital Region have an opportunity to receive funding to help more residents access the technology, skills and support they need to fully participate in today’s increasingly digital world. The Digital Equity Coalition of the Capital Region (DECCR), in partnership with United Way of the Greater Capital Region, is accepting applications for a new grant opportunity that will distribute $400,000 to community organizations working to bridge the digital divide.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and government entities, such as libraries and senior centers. The initiative aims to help Capital Region residents overcome barriers to reliable internet, technology, digital literacy, and essential online services.

Applications are open now and will be accepted through September 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Addressing a Growing Need Across the Capital Region. 

President and CEO of United Way of the Greater Capital Region Peter Gannon says, “access to devices and reliable internet connectivity is critical in today’s digital first world.”

“For families already struggling with rising costs, affordable access to technology can help close the affordability gap by connecting them to critical services, employment opportunities, and resources that support financial stability and their wellbeing. This grant opportunity will help bridge the digital divide by connecting people with the resources, technology, and support they need to navigate an increasingly digital world,” Peter Gannon concluded. 

Reliable internet access and digital skills have become essential to everyday life. Applying for a job, accessing healthcare, completing schoolwork, finding housing, managing finances and connecting with government services increasingly require people to be able to navigate the digital world. Yet not every Capital Region resident has equal access to the necessary devices, connectivity, skills or technical support.

The new funding opportunity is designed to strengthen organizations already serving capital region residents and help expand their capacity to address those barriers.

Eligible projects may include efforts that:

• Provide internet-enabled devices such as laptops, computers and tablets

• Deliver digital literacy and technology training

• Offer technical support and device assistance

• Improve the accessibility of digital content and online services

• Help residents access employment, education, healthcare and government resources online

Priority will be given to projects that expand access to internet-enabled devices, strengthen digital literacy and skills, provide technical support, and make digital content and online services more accessible throughout New York’s Capital Region. This includes Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, and Washington Counties. Any organization is welcome to apply, but priority will be given to organizations working in the capital region.