New nonprofit would expand internet access for underserved Americans

What does this do?

HR 8936 establishes the Foundation for Digital Opportunity, a new nonprofit organization tasked with expanding internet access, affordable devices, and digital skills training across the United States. The Foundation would raise money from private companies, foundations, and other outside sources to fund grants, training events, and data collection on digital gaps. It could also create for-profit investment funds to attract private capital toward its goals.

Who does it affect?

The Foundation would be governed by a Board of Directors drawn from education, industry, nonprofits, local governments, and community organizations, with federal officials serving in a non-voting capacity. Low-income households, older adults, people with disabilities, rural communities, and tribal communities are the primary intended beneficiaries, along with schools, libraries, and local governments that run digital literacy or broadband programs.

Why does it matter?

The Foundation would operate alongside existing agencies such as the FCC and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration without replacing them, adding a privately funded mechanism to address gaps those agencies do not fully close. Regular congressional reporting and independent audits would be required to evaluate whether the Foundation is operating effectively and honestly.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Taxpayers fund startup costs
• Private fundraising covers ongoing work