The City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS), through its Community Technology Digital Equity Program, has launched the Digital Skills Building for Native Communities Grant Opportunity as part of the Digital Inclusion Fund (DI Fund). This initiative aims to address the digital divide experienced by Native American communities in urban Portland by providing funding to programs that enhance digital literacy, support educational advancement, and open pathways to technology-related careers. The grant supports the City’s broader efforts to ensure equity in digital access and skills development for historically underserved populations.

Two types of grants will be awarded under this opportunity. The Foundations Grant offers $130,000 for projects focusing on introductory and intermediate digital skills, such as basic computer use, email, internet navigation, cybersecurity, and social media literacy. The Futures Grant, with an award of $150,000, supports advanced digital skills training, including AI prompt engineering, CAD, robotics, programming, website development, and career exploration in digital fields. Both grants will fund projects operating between June 2025 and June 2027.

Applicants must be nonprofit community-based organizations or educational institutions that serve Native American community members who live, work, or attend school in Portland. The grant was developed in response to consistent data from community surveys and reports indicating disproportionately low access to digital devices and broadband among Native populations in urban settings. While data has limitations due to small sample sizes, the need for culturally grounded and trust-based digital inclusion programming is well-documented.

Projects supported by this grant must align with three main goals: increase access to digital skills training for Native Americans in Portland, support digital skill development for education and employment, and promote career pathways in technology. Activities may include workshops, hands-on training, and career mentorship opportunities, and should demonstrate measurable community engagement and outcomes.

Applications must be submitted through the City of Portland Grants Portal by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Friday, April 11, 2025. Assistance is available for applicants who experience hardship with the online portal, and alternative submission options can be arranged by contacting the program coordinator. Grant tips, office hours, and application resources are available on the City of Portland’s website to support the submission process.

For further information, questions, or accommodations, applicants should contact Alonso Melendez, Digital Equity Coordinator, at alonso.melendez@portlandoregon.gov.