The Impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program Outreach Grant on Local Community Organizations in Southern California

This report examines the impact of the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Outreach Grant on three local community organizations in Southern California: the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF), the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA), and United Ways of California (UWCA).

These organizations leveraged their community ties and utilized diverse outreach strategies to promote ACP awareness and assist eligible households with enrollment. While each organization faced unique challenges, they all demonstrated the potential of local entities in bridging the digital divide.

Key findings include: the effectiveness of direct notification and multichannel outreach, the importance of in-language support for non-English speakers, and the value of integrating digital literacy training with broadband access initiatives.
However, the unexpected curtailment of the ACP in early 2024 significantly impacted the organizations’ ability to fully execute their plans.

The report concludes with policy recommendations for future low-cost broadband grant programs, emphasizing the need for flexible program requirements, sustainable funding models, and improved coordination among stakeholders to maximize impact and ensure long-term effectiveness of such programs.