What Are Technology Grants and How Do They Work?\n\nTechnology is essential for any organization aiming to improve its efficiency, expand its reach, or deliver its services effectively.

However, funding new hardware, software, or digital infrastructure is a significant financial challenge, especially for nonprofits and public agencies.

Technology grants are a specific type of funding designed to solve this problem.\n\nThis guide explains what technology grants are, who is typically eligible, and the fundamental steps to prepare and apply for them.

We also include verified examples of current opportunities to illustrate what funders are looking for.\n\n\n

What Exactly Is a Technology Grant?\n\nA technology grant provides dedicated funds to an organization for the purpose of acquiring, implementing, or upgrading technology.

Unlike general operating support, which can be used for any organizational expense, these grants are restricted to specific tech-related projects.\n\nFunding can cover a wide range of needs, including:\n\n* Hardware: Laptops, servers, networking equipment, or specialized devices.\n* Software: New software licenses, subscription fees for cloud-based services (like CRM or accounting software), or custom software development.\n* Digital Infrastructure: Website development, cybersecurity enhancements, or data management systems.\n* Implementation & Training: Costs associated with professional IT support, staff training, and project management to ensure the technology is used effectively.\n\nFunders offer technology grants because they recognize that strong infrastructure is a prerequisite for achieving mission-based goals.

They are investing in an organization's capacity to operate and scale its impact.\n\n\n

Who Qualifies for Technology Grants?\n\nEligibility for technology grants is determined by the funder's mission and priorities.

While every grant is different, the most common recipients include:\n\n* 501(c)(3) Nonprofits: The most frequent applicants, from small community-based organizations to large national charities.\n* Educational Institutions: K-12 schools, school districts, colleges, and universities seeking to enhance learning environments.\n* Government & Public Agencies: Local, state, and tribal governments often seek funds for public-facing digital services or infrastructure projects.\n* Libraries and Museums: Institutions looking to digitize collections or offer public access to technology.\n\nOccasionally, technology grants are available for small businesses, particularly if the project aligns with a funder's economic development or community impact goals.

Always read the funder's guidelines carefully to confirm your organization type is eligible before applying.\n\n\n

How to Get Technology Grants: A 4-Step Process\n\nSecuring a technology grant requires a clear plan that connects a specific technology need to a measurable organizational outcome.

Follow these four core steps to build a competitive application.\n\n\n

Step 1: Conduct a Technology Needs Assessment\n\nBefore searching for grants, you must clearly define your problem. A funder is not just buying you laptops; they are funding a solution.

Document the answers to these questions:\n\n* What specific problem will this technology solve? (e.g., “Our outdated data system prevents us from tracking client outcomes efficiently.”)\n* What hardware, software, and services are required?\n* What is the total project cost, including taxes, installation, and training?\n* How will you measure the success of this project? (e.g., “Reduce data entry time by 50%,” or “Increase service delivery to 100 more clients per year.”)\n\n\n

Step 2: Find and Research Potential Funders\n\nWith your project plan in hand, you can begin searching for funders.

Look for foundations, corporations, and government agencies whose mission aligns with yours.

For example, a foundation focused on improving public health is more likely to fund a CRM for a community clinic than one focused on the arts.\n\nUse government portals like Grants.gov and professional grant databases to identify opportunities.

Pay close attention to past awards to see what types of technology projects a funder has supported before.\n\n\n

Step 3: Align Your Project with Funder Guidelines\n\nOnce you identify a potential grant, carefully dissect its Request for Proposal (RFP) or application guidelines.

Make sure your project aligns perfectly with the funder’s stated priorities, eligibility requirements, and funding restrictions.

If the grant does not fund hardware and your primary need is computers, do not apply.

Misaligned applications are the most common reason for rejection.\n\n\n

Step 4: Write a Compelling Grant Narrative\n\nYour grant application tells the story of your project. A strong technology grant narrative clearly explains the need, details the solution (the technology), outlines a realistic implementation plan and timeline, and presents a clear budget.

Emphasize how the funder’s investment will directly improve your ability to serve your community and achieve your mission.\n\n\n

Examples of Technology Grants Available in 2026\n\nBelow are a few examples of real technology-focused grants.

These are provided to illustrate the types of opportunities that exist and should be verified directly at the source before applying.\n\n\n

NTIA Digital Equity Advancement Grant\n* Funder: National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), U.S.

Department of Commerce\n* Focus: This federal program funds projects that promote digital inclusion and broadband adoption for underserved communities.

Grants can support digital literacy programs, public computer access, and technology training for workforce development.\n* Award Amount: $500,000 to $2,000,000\n* Eligibility Snapshot: Nonprofits, local and state governments, and tribal entities.\n* 2026 Deadline: March 31, 2026\n* Application Link: https://www.ntia.gov/grants/digitalequity\n\n\n

Google.org AI for Social Good Grant\n* Funder: Google.org\n* Focus: This challenge supports nonprofits and academic institutions using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to address major societal challenges, including those in climate, health, and economic opportunity.

Funding is for the development and implementation of AI-driven tools and platforms.\n* Award Amount: $250,000 to $1,500,000\n* Eligibility Snapshot: Registered charities, nonprofits, and academic research institutions.\n* 2026 Deadline: February 28, 2026\n* Application Link: https://www.google.org/challenges/ai-social-good\n\n\n

Knight Foundation Technology Innovation Grant\n* Funder: John S. and James L.

Knight Foundation\n* Focus: Aims to advance journalism and informed communities through technology.

Grants support the development of new tools, platforms, and software that enhance information access, combat misinformation, or improve journalistic practices.\n* Award Amount: $50,000 to $350,000\n* Eligibility Snapshot: Primarily 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.

For-profit companies with a clear public benefit mission may also be considered.\n* 2026 Deadline: April 15, 2026\n* Application Link: https://knightfoundation.org/grants/tech-innovation