The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) ,Department of Commerce, is initiating Tribal Consultation on the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) and the Digital Equity Act of 2021 set aside for Native Entities (NE). The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, Pub. L. No. 116-260 (Act) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Section 60201, Public Law 117-58, 135 Stat. 429 (Nov. 15, 2021) (IIJA) provided new sources of tribal broadband funding to expand connectivity across Indian Country. Consistent with those statutes, the Department of Commerce and NTIA continue to be dedicated to ensuring universal broadband availability and promoting digital access.

• Tuesday, January 13 at 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET
• Tuesday, January 20 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET

Below are the questions on which NTIA seeks your input during this consultation:

• How can NTIA reform its TBCP and NE programs to better serve Tribal connectivity?
• How can NTIA adapt its TBCP and NE programs to be aligned with, complementary to, and non-duplicative of BEAD? What activities should be the focus of the TBCP and NE programs given the progress of the BEAD Program?
• What steps should NTIA take to stretch every dollar as far as possible and maximize the impact of TBCP and NE with respect to broadband connectivity on Tribal lands?
• What steps can NTIA take to reduce administrative burdens and red tape for Tribal governments?
• How have recent advancements in low earth orbit satellite and fixed wireless broadband technologies, impacted broadband connectivity in Indian Country?
• Would additional information on the latest advancements and improvements in satellite and/or wireless technologies assist in evaluating broadband technology options?
• What challenges exist with respect to broadband adoption on Tribal lands?
• What types of projects or initiatives –either public or private– have been most effective in advancing broadband access in Indian Country?

Written comments can be submitted to broadbandusa@ntia.gov with the subject line: Tribal Broadband Connectivity Grant Program/Digital Equity Native Entities Program, by February 13, 2026, at 6:00 pm Eastern Standard Time.

If you have any questions regarding the TBCP or NE programs or these consultation sessions, you may contact tbcp@ntia.gov.