Billions for Tribal Internet: Commerce Seeks Form Feedback
Published Date: 12/10/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of Commerce is asking for public feedback on forms used for two big programs that help Native communities get better internet. These programs, funded by a $65 billion law, aim to close the digital divide and bring fast, affordable internet to tribal areas. Comments on the forms are open until February 9, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up and help shape how the grants work!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
NEGP: 5% Funding Reserved for Native Entities
Under the Native Entities Grant Program (NEGP), NTIA must reserve not less than five percent (5%) of total program funds for Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations. The programs are funded under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which provided $65 billion for programs to close the digital divide.
TBCP Grants to Expand Tribal Broadband Access
The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) provides federal grants to expand broadband service on Tribal Land or to fund programs that promote use of broadband for remote learning, telework, or telehealth. TBCP is authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and as amended by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Application Burden: Time and Cost Estimates
NTIA estimates 700 applicants will respond, with 10 hours per applicant, for an estimated 7,000 total annual burden hours and an estimated total annual cost to the public of $321,426. Responding is mandatory and public comments on the forms are due by February 9, 2026.
NTIA NOFOs and Red Tape Reduction Plans
NTIA intends to release Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) in spring 2026 for both NEGP and TBCP and is working on reforms to reduce red tape, promote flexibility, and better align grant opportunities for Tribal connectivity; those reforms will be reflected in the forthcoming NOFOs. The public is invited to comment on the proposed information collections before submission to OMB.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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