In June 2024, the PBDA opened the Capital Projects Fund – Digital Connectivity Technology (Technology) Program. This program utilized $20 million of the $279 million in the Capital Projects Fund that were allocated to Pennsylvania through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021.
In November 2024, the PBDA Board of Directors approved 117 applications for the distribution of over 9,000 laptops across 42 counties. These entities included libraries, municipalities, workforce training organizations, not-for-profit organizations, other community anchor institutions, in areas where affordability is a barrier. For details on the first round of approved applicants, please visit the Digital Connectivity Technology Program page.
The PBDA will open a second round of the Technology Program beginning April 1, 2025, to distribute the remaining laptops. The PBDA wanted to reach out specifically to Economic Development Organizations across the Commonwealth. The intricate knowledge you have of your community member organizations and their needs, can really help to alert those entities that could benefit from this program.
There are a number of barriers that make access to high-speed internet connectivity difficult for many. More so, numerous Pennsylvanians do not have access to the devices needed to be successful in our digital economy. This program will aim to close that piece of the digital divide by allowing public-facing entities to acquire devices that will be made free and publicly available to community members.
Additionally, in preparation for this second round, there will be two webinars which will provide an overview of the program, review FAQs, and outline any updates to the guidelines. Additional information for these webinars is provided in the attached flyer.
Should you have additional questions or needs, please contact the PBDA at pbda_capitalprojectsfund@pa.gov.
Thank You,
The PBDA Team
Download: DCTP Round 2 Webinar Flyer
Webinar 1: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Webinar 2: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
