LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan has received more than $20.5 million in federal funds to expand high-speed internet access for hundreds of thousands of residents, making it the second state in the nation to receive this grant.

The funding is part of the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, aimed at addressing the state’s disproportionate internet access issues.

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Currently, about 30% of households in Michigan experience some form of digital divide. In 2023, over 492,000 households were either unserved or underserved by high-speed internet infrastructure, while an additional 730,000 homes faced challenges related to affordability, adoption, device access, and digital literacy.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) announced that a significant portion of the funds will go to the Michigan Inclusive Training, Technology, and Equity Network, a new state initiative. This program will establish regional resource hubs across the state and create “Digital Navigators” to help residents overcome barriers to internet use and enhance their digital skills by providing essential information and resources.