Detroit City Wire

LANSING, Mich.— The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI), part of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, has opened the application period for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. This initiative aims to address the digital divide by providing high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved areas in Michigan.

Starting January 9, internet service providers, communities, and eligible participants can submit project applications. The goal is to enhance connectivity across Michigan by enabling reliable and affordable high-speed internet access. "This marks a pivotal step in our journey to close the digital divide and build a digitally inclusive Michigan where everyone has access to reliable, high-speed internet," said Eric Frederick, Michigan’s Chief Connectivity Officer. He added that they are inviting partners to help shape resilient infrastructure for future generations.

The BEAD program represents the largest investment in high-speed internet infrastructure in U.S. history and is managed by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Michigan has secured $1.559 billion—the fourth-largest allocation nationwide—to connect over 244,000 locations across all 83 counties.

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that deliver scalable and resilient high-speed internet infrastructure. Successful proposals will receive funding for network construction designed to meet connectivity needs for at least 30 years.

Key dates include a pre-registration period open until March 10, 2025, which is required for participation in BEAD within Michigan. The project application window runs from January 9 through April 9, 2025.

In addition to infrastructure funding, the BEAD program focuses on affordability, digital skills training, and device access to ensure equitable connectivity statewide. MIHI developed this program with extensive community input to support economic growth and improve quality of life in Michigan.

For further details about Michigan’s BEAD Program or application resources, interested parties can visit MIHI's BEAD Program webpage.