In a significant boost for broadband equity, Michigan's plan to shrink the digital divide has secured a hefty $20 million in federal grants, according to officials. The funds were announced this week, earmarked for the state's very first digital equity plan, which aims to improve internet speed and accessibility for citizens currently lagging in the digital age.
The cash injection, drawn from the federal Digital Equity Act, will back the plan that received a recent federal nod of approval. The initiative revolves around tackling digital equity barriers such as service affordability, availability, digital skills, and ensuring all residents have critical internet access. As reported by The Detroit News, the funds will be spread over the next five years to catalyze Michigan's digital inclusivity goals.
Empowerment through connectivity is the mantra championed by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, who lauded the plan and its federal endorsement. "Every Michigander deserves access to affordable, fast internet, and the approval of Michigan’s first-ever Digital Equity Plan will help us more efficiently and effectively connect more individuals, families, and small business owners," Gilchrist expressed in a statement released by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. The statewide plan, buoyed by the feedback from a robust 41-stop tour, engaged with over 800 residents to pinpoint the critical broadband gaps that many still face.
As detailed in a news release from the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office, the plan provides a blueprint for bridging gaps in education, healthcare, workforce development, and civic engagement—targeting a digitally equitable state by 2030. "The MIHI Office is proud to lead this effort to ensure digital equity for all Michigan residents," said Eric Frederick, Michigan’s chief connectivity officer, in a release from the office, which The Detroit News noted. Despite these commendable initiatives, about 30% of Michigan households still contend with the digital divide. More than 492,000 homes were either unserved or underserved as of last year, while an additional 730,000 faced other barriers impeding their digital fluency and internet access.
The funds granted this week will also kickstart a state-wide Digital Navigator Resource Network, which aims to bolster individual communities in their quests to address their specific digital requirements. Allie Herkenroder, Michigan’s digital equity director, highlighted the community-centric approach in the plan's success. "This plan could not exist without the support and involvement from Michiganders everywhere, and we are excited to usher in an era of digital inclusion for Michigan," Herkenroder said in a statement released by Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.
For those flying through the corridors of Michigan's digital landscape, the road ahead looks to be paved with faster internet, fewer dead zones, and a state primed for the demands of tomorrow. Details on the digital equity initiatives and resources can be found on the state's official website at Michigan.gov/MIHI.
