Altafiber, the parent company of Hawaiian Telcom, announced today a $1 million commitment over the next five years to organizations that are working to expand broadband internet access in Hawaiʻi. 

According to a news release, a special round of $140,000 in digital equity grants from the Bell Charitable Foundation will be offered in August to celebrate Hawaiian Telcom’s 140th anniversary of serving the islands. 

Grants will be awarded in increments of $20,000 to $25,000 per organization for those with programs focused on increasing technology accessibility and literacy in the state of Hawaiʻi. Applications will be available online during the month of August at the Bell Charitable Foundation website. 

The foundation hosts grant cycles twice a year in April and October, for health and well being technology, and economic and social mobility and sustainability, respectively. Grants support nonprofit organizations geographically where altafiber and Hawaiian Telcom have a significant presence, primarily in Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky, Southeast Indiana and the entire state of Hawaii. 

After funding, the foundation requests periodic progress updates and offers to work with organizations regarding timing regarding metrics, photos, an annual impact report at the conclusion of the grant period and feedback from those impacted to gauge the impact made from the grants. 

To apply, visit https://www.bellfdn.org/grants-investments/#grant-application-reporting-requirements.