The Connected Devices (MD-CDP) grant program is designed to assist in digital equity and inclusion efforts in Maryland. The COVID pandemic increasingly forced individuals to isolate themselves within their homes and avoid public venues and services, placing a strain on households who do not have the technology necessary to access the internet. Working in tandem with discounted and free internet services from the Maryland Emergency Broadband Benefit subsidy and Federal ACP subsidy, connected devices are an additional necessity. Unfortunately, many Marylanders’ cannot afford the cost of a device. MD-CDP is intended to provide new, internet-enabled devices to families who are most at need.
The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) issued an Invitation for Bids (“IFB”) in order to procure approximately 145,000 devices over a period of approximately six (6) months. The device specifications included a minimum of: 13” screen, chrome OS, SD card reader, dual band Wi-Fi, 2 USB ports, headphone and video output jacks and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. The approved bidder, HP, Inc., plans to provide model HP Chromebook 14 G7 or similar in accordance with their contract.
The program provides grants of internet-enabled devices to counties and municipal governments to distribute to their eligible households. Eligible households are identified as a household with an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Qualifying households may receive only one device per address. The period of performance for the program is 6 months. A stipend of $6 per device is available to the applicant to assist with the cost of distribution.
Applications for 2nd round of funding will be accepted through September 29, 2023.
- Round one of the application requests awarded 91,300 devices.
- Round two of the application requests will award the remaining allotment of devices. New eligible applicants will receive priority for funding.