Michigan Boosts Funding For Expanding Internet Access Initiative

LANSING, MI — More than $15 million in funding is being funneled toward Michigan's initiative of expanding high-speed internet access across the state, officials announced this week.

Twenty projects across the state will bring internet access to 6,700 locations and is projected to have an annual economic benefit of up to $12.4 million, according to an announcement from Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and the Department of Technology, Management & Budget.

"During my first days in office, I committed to working to increase high-speed internet availability, affordability, and adoption across our state," Gilchrist said. "We will continue to invest in expanding infrastructure to allow all Michiganders the opportunity to access high-speed internet. The funding in the CMIC grant will increase access for families and better connect people, communities, and businesses across Michigan."

With high-speed internet becoming a necessity in our educational, professional, and personal lives,

The CMIC grant program was established to expand broadband service to unserved areas in Michigan. The funds will go toward expanding broadband infrastructure across the state and provide access to high-speed internet for residents and businesses, officials said. Thursday marked the third round of awards.

The first round of grants were announced in October 2020, with $11.9 million awarded to 10 projects. The second round of $1 million and an additional four projects were awarded in April 2021. The total grant funds awarded so far will impact more than 18,000 locations in Michigan and generate annual economic benefits that could exceed $32 million.