Grant Program to Expand Internet Access in Michigan

Approximately 1.24 million Michigan households do not have a permanent fixed broadband connection at home resulting in $1.8 billion to $2.7 billion in potential economic benefit left unrealized among disconnected households.

However, a new program announced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Oct. 8 is aimed at expanding broadband infrastructure across the state.

The Michigan Economic Development Corp. has partnered with Connected Nation Michigan to facilitate the Connecting Michigan Taskforce and improve the access, adoption, and use of broadband and technology across Michigan. The $12.7 million awarded in grants through the Connecting Michigan Communities program will extend access to over 10,900 households, businesses and community anchor institutions in Michigan.

“In today’s society, the fastest way to create an even playing field for all is access to high-speed internet,” said Whitmer. “These broadband internet projects, along with additional infrastructure initiatives we are undertaking, will provide underserved communities in Michigan with high-speed internet service. This critical service is no longer a luxury but is a necessity that allows every Michigander to get a quality education and compete in the global economy.”

The Connecting Michigan Taskforce will improve internet access by:

• Coordinating with local, regional, and state agencies as well as the private sector to increase broadband access and adoption in Michigan.
• Recommending policy changes to improve broadband access and adoption in the state.
• Identifying funding sources and opportunities to encourage investors to provide affordable broadband access to households and businesses statewide.
• Monitoring federal broadband-related activities for policies and funding opportunities that will impact broadband in Michigan.

Combined, the CMIC Broadband grants and the Connecting Michigan Taskforce will help more Michigan residents gain access to, and adoption of broadband and the economic benefits it will provide.

Learn more about the Connecting Michigan Taskforce here.