Hmong American Partnership and Hmong National Development Awarded Prestigious Grant to Advance Digital Equity and Empower Communities

FOR IMMEDICATE RELEASE
January 7, 2025

Saint Paul, MN – Hmong American Partnership (HAP) and its subsidiary, Hmong National
Development (HND), are pleased to announce an award of $7.3 million from the Department of
Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This
funding, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program,
highlights the dedication of HAP, HND, and their partners to closing the digital divide in
underserved Hmong communities in Minnesota and California.

The grant will fund the Hmong Digital Leaders Program (HDLP), an innovative initiative
designed to create sustainable digital hubs, enhance digital literacy, and foster economic and
educational opportunities in the Twin Cities of Minnesota and Fresno, California. The program
will directly address key barriers to digital equity, including access to affordable broadband,
technological devices, and digital skills training, while empowering Hmong youth as leaders in
the digital economy.

“This grant is a transformative opportunity for the Hmong community,” said May yer Thao,
President & CEO of HAP & HND. “With this funding, we can take decisive steps to close the
digital divide and empower thousands of individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to
thrive in an increasingly digital world. HAP & HND are honored to lead this effort alongside our
valued partners.”

The program will connect over 6,000 households to affordable internet services, distribute 500
refurbished devices to low-income families, and establish four permanent Digital Hubs in
partnership with schools and community centers. These Digital Hubs will serve as long-term
access points for technology and digital skills training, creating lasting impact in the Hmong
communities of Minnesota and California.

Pao Yang, President & CEO of The Fresno Center, emphasized the grant’s impact: “The
Fresno Center is dedicated to bridging the digital divide for the 5,000 low-income community
members we serve each month—individuals who lack access to broadband and the skills to
navigate essential internet services. With this transformative grant, we will empower our
community in California by expanding access to critical digital resources, opening doors to
opportunity, education, and connection. Together with our partners, we can create a future where
no one is left behind in the digital age.”

Maychy Vu, Executive Director of HOPE Community Academy, highlighted the program’s
benefits for students: “What an incredible opportunity this digital equity grant provides for our
student leaders to inspire change, share transformative experiences, and create a lasting impact
by bridging the digital divide in our community! Together, we are paving the way for greater
access, empowerment, and opportunity for all.”

Bao Vang, President & CEO of Community School of Excellence, expressed commitment to
digital inclusion: “At the Community School of Excellence, we are deeply committed to
equipping our students and families with the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital world.
This grant allows us to expand our impact by creating permanent digital hubs and providing vital
access to broadband and digital literacy training. Together with HAP, HND, and our incredible
partners, we are proud to play a role in bridging the digital divide for the Hmong community and
beyond.”

This grant represents a collective effort by HAP, HND, The Fresno Center, HOPE Community
Academy, and the Community School of Excellence to ensure digital equity for underserved
populations. By increasing access to broadband and fostering digital inclusion, the program
aligns with the goals of the Digital Equity Act and reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s
commitment to empowering communities through technology.

For more information about the Hmong Digital Leaders Program and our work to promote digital
equity, please contact:

Name: Kathryn Gallo, Digital & Communications Manager
Organization: New Publica
Phone: (978) 317-4437
Email: kathryn@newpublica.com