HONOLULU (KHON2) -- High-speed internet is coming to more families in Hawaiian Homelands after a $72 million grant was awarded by the Department of Commerce.
The grant is part of the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, which is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's "Internet for All" initiative.
It will used to deploy fast fiber optic internet connections for those who have limited access to broadband service.
According to U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, better high-speed internet at home would help "more people access education, health care and employment resources online."
For too long, many communities on Hawaiian home lands have lacked equitable access to the digital tools citizens need to participate fully in our modern economy. This grant empowers people with the resources they need to succeed and will strengthen the bonds of our communities.
Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke
In addition to high-speed internet, the grant will also be used to build community digital innovation centers, create workforce development programs and manage wireless communication towers.
“It’s more than just connectivity; it’s about opening doors to opportunity, through education, employment, and access to healthcare and other essential services. Mahalo to our federal partners at NTIA for supporting this vision," Luke added.
Officials said the funds will be distributed over four years with projects rolling out through 2028.