The Promoting Internet Needs of New Mexicans (PINON) Grant is an initiative by the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) to bridge the digital divide across the state. With a funding pool of over $7.3 million, the program will provide grants ranging from $25,000 to $500,000 to eligible organizations working on digital equity programs that support vulnerable populations. The grant is designed to align with the New Mexico Digital Equity Plan and the objectives set forth in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.
Eligible projects must focus on digital inclusion for individuals from one or more of the eight covered populations, which include low-income households, seniors, incarcerated individuals, veterans, individuals with disabilities, non-English speakers, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural residents. Grant activities can support digital literacy training, device distribution, technical support, capacity-building, and digital navigator programs.
Projects must also address at least one of the five key impact areas identified by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA):
Economic and Workforce Development
Education
Health
Civic and Social Engagement
Delivery of Other Essential Services
Additionally, projects must address one or more of the NTIA key barriers:
Online Accessibility and Inclusivity
Digital Literacy
Online Privacy and Cybersecurity
Device Availability and Affordability
Eligible applicants include municipal, county, and regional governments, Tribal governments and Tribal-led entities, community-based organizations, nonprofits, foundations, higher education institutions, and state agencies. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from the System of Award Management (SAM) to qualify. The process of obtaining a UEI can take several weeks, so organizations are encouraged to apply early.
The grant period will last 1 to 3 years, allowing awardees sufficient time to implement and complete their projects.
