The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a $14.2 billion federal program that helps families and households who are struggling to afford internet service. The ACP provides eligible households with a discount of up to $30 per month and a one-time $100 discount toward a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is available for many Maine households today. Learn more about how to apply at https://getacp.org/Maine.

You can help spread the word about the Affordable Connectivity Program using this fact sheet. Resources to help you or others understand how to access this important program are available in the Maine Connectivity Authority’s ACP4ME Toolkit. 

What is Digital Equity?

Digital equity is the condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity for full participation in our society and economy. The committee is actively working to ensure this project supports achievement of relevant elements of digital equity goals identified in Maine’s draft digital equity plan (particularly goals #1 and #3): 

  1. Affordable, reliable internet connectivity; 

  2. An affordable device that meets their needs; 

  3. The opportunity to develop digital skills and access technical support; 

  4. Tools and information to protect themselves and their families online; and 

  5. Online state resources that are inclusive and accessible for all.

Direct Communications would participate in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides income-qualified households up to $30 per month discount for internet service. Under this program, a qualified household could have high-speed internet for $9.95 per month once the project is funded and built.