Michigan Department of Labor and

Economic Opportunity (LEO) High-Speed

Internet Office (MIHI)

State of Michigan
Digital Equity Plan (DRAFT)

July 2023
Digital Equity Plan (DRAFT)
State of Michigan

Table of Contents
1 Executive Summary ................................................................................................................. 3
2 Introduction and Vision for Digital Equity ............................................................................. 6
2.1 Vision................................................................................................................................ 6
2.2 Alignment with Existing Efforts to Improve Outcomes ................................................. 6
2.3 Strategy and Objectives.................................................................................................. 11
3 Current State of Digital Equity: Barriers and Assets ............................................................. 22
3.1 Asset Inventory .............................................................................................................. 22
3.1.1 Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population ........................................................ 22
3.1.2 Existing Digital Equity Plans .................................................................................. 29
3.1.3 Existing Digital Equity Programs ........................................................................... 37
3.1.4 Broadband Adoption............................................................................................... 40
3.1.5 Broadband Affordability .......................................................................................... 41
3.2 Needs Assessment .......................................................................................................... 42
3.2.1 Covered Population Needs Assessment .................................................................. 42
3.2.2 Broadband Adoption............................................................................................... 56
3.2.3 Broadband Affordability ......................................................................................... 56
4 Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement......................................................................... 58
4.1 Coordination and Outreach Strategy ........................................................................... 58
5 Implementation ..................................................................................................................... 60
5.1 Implementation Strategy & Key Activities ................................................................... 60
5.2 Timeline ......................................................................................................................... 69
6 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 70

Appendix A-1
Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population ...................................................................... 72
Organizations by Covered Population ......................................................................................75
Digital Inclusion Plans ............................................................................................................. 79

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Disclaimer: The Draft Michigan Digital Equity Plan was developed based on data and feedback
collected through extensive stakeholder and community engagement completed during the first half of
2023. While this plan has been thoughtfully prepared to establish Michigan’s vision for digital equity in
the context of its overarching strategy and goals, this is not the final version of the document.
Responsive public comments from Michiganders of all walks of life are imperative to strengthening the
Digital Equity Plan. The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) invites the public to review and
comment on this draft version and to provide MIHI with the valuable feedback needed to help ensure
that the plan meets the needs of Michiganders.

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1 Executive Summary

Introduction to Digital Equity in Michigan

Nearly every aspect of modern life requires access to high-speed internet. Digital equity means
that all individuals and communities have the tools and resources necessary to access and
meaningfully connect to the internet. Currently, Michigan faces multi-faceted challenges in
achieving digital equity leading to a digital divide, or a portion of the population who do not
have reliable, affordable access to internet.

As of 2023, more than 492,000 households are unserved (locations without 25/3 Mbps service
available) or underserved (locations without 100/20 Mbps service available)1 by high-speed
internet infrastructure. Another 730,000 households face barriers related to affordability,
adoption, device access, digital literacy, or a combination thereof. Taken together, this means
that approximately 30% of Michigan households struggle with some form of the digital divide2 .
This is particularly prevalent for covered populations including low-income households, where
nearly 35% of households earning less than $20,000 annually do not have a broadband
connection3, aging individuals, where more than 22% of residents aged 65 and older do not have
broadband at home4, and racial or ethnic minorities are nearly half as likely to have a home
broadband connection than non-minorities5. Many Michigan residents fall within these covered
populations, with individuals likely falling into more than one covered population category,
highlighting a need to ensure all vulnerable populations are included within the state’s digital
equity efforts. Moreover, many individuals lack access to internet-connected devices such as
computers, creating another significant obstacle. Michigan is also a fairly rural state, with 61 of
the 83 counties in the state being labeled as rural by the U.S. Census Bureau, posing challenges
related to access and affordability of broadband. These complex and overlapping issues create
many barriers and challenges for achieving digital equity in Michigan.

High-speed internet is essential to communities, as it provides access to information, enhances

communication, and expands opportunities for its users. Additionally, education, economic
development and mobility, environment, healthcare, transportation, infrastructure, and
workforce development are inextricably linked to the universal availability and adoption of
broadband service—its benefits reach beyond the immediate users of broadband service. The
Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunities estimates expanding broadband
statewide could produce significant economic opportunities for households valued between $1.8
billion to $2.7 billion annually6.

Michigan’s goal to bridge the Digital Divide and increase digital connectivity also includes the
aim to ensure all individuals, especially covered populations, are adequately educated, trained,
and have the needed resources to utilize the internet in a productive and impactful manner.
Vision

1 Data for number of unserved and underserved locations comes from the June 15th, 2023 data published by the Federal
Communications Commission that represents availability reported by internet service providers as of December 31, 2022.
2 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Roadmap (2021), Michigan High-Speed Internet Office
3 U.S. Census Bureau. (2019). 2019 American Community Survey 1-year Estimates Detailed Tables
4 U.S. Census Bureau. (2019). 2019 American Community Survey 1-year Estimates Detailed Tables
5 U.S. Census Bureau. (2019). 2019 American Community Survey 1-year Estimates Detailed Tables
6 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Roadmap (2021), Michigan High-Speed Internet Office

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The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) envisions to close the digital divide by 2030
and achieve a digitally connected and inclusive state where every resident and community has
an affordable high-speed internet connection available to them regardless of location, economic
status, or race/ethnicity. The key to MIHI’s vision is community engagement working together
with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and other state
agencies, and creating solutions distinct to communities’ needs.

MIHI’s ultimate goal for digital equity in the state is to ensure that high-speed internet access is
available to every home, business, institution, and community. A key component of digital
equity includes expanding the availability of internet-connected devices, technical assistance,
training programs to ensure individuals are able to utilize the internet effectively.

Alignment with Existing Efforts to Improve Outcomes

The goals of the Digital Equity Plan are aligned to the State of Michigan’s priorities and other
existing or planned efforts such as the BEAD program. There is considerable overlap in
prioritization of increasing the workforce, improving educational attainment, enhancing overall
health outcomes, improving civic and social engagement, and increasing awareness to other
essential services and programs. To best serve Michigan natives and bridge the digital divide,
MIHI will collaborate with public, private, and governmental agencies on new and existing
programs that coincide.

Strategy and Objectives

MIHI's goals have informed the development of key strategies aimed at bridging the digital
divide and enhancing digital equity throughout Michigan. These strategic initiatives will form
the foundation for measurable tactics and objectives that will guide MIHI's efforts to ensure
universal access and adoption of broadband service. By aligning MIHI's goals with actionable
strategies and measurable objectives, Michigan can develop a comprehensive and equitable
approach to achieving digital equity. MIHI’s goals for the Digital Equity Plan and to bridge the
digital divide by 2030 are included the.

MIHI’s Digital Equity Goals

Ensure all Michiganders have access to an affordable, reliable high-speed

internet connection at their homes

Attract workers and employers to Michigan

Improve educational attainment including removing barriers for credentialed

workers and in postsecondary achievement
Improve overall health outcomes, particularly with improvement in rural
areas and in underrepresented populations
Educate Michiganders about the online services available to them as a citizen
of the state

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Asset Inventory
MIHI has taken significant steps towards improving digital equity in Michigan through its
comprehensive inventory of digital equity assets, plans, and programs. This inventory utilized
the Michigan Digital Inclusion Resource Map to inform its collection of available resources and
is focused on asset that serve covered populations to improve the state's digital equity
ecosystem. The map is based on the Michigan Statewide Digital Inclusion survey, which received
responses from over 200 organizations and resources throughout the state. MIHI has aligned
the survey results with the covered populations they support, as shown in Appendix A-1.

Central to MIHI’s approach to developing the asset inventory was the engagement with
stakeholders, communities, and Tribal leaders throughout Michigan to gather a more
comprehensive understanding of the state's resources, how those assets can be better utilized,
and where asset gaps currently exist. MIHI is committed to addressing the existing asset gaps
that were identified, while also maintaining efforts to eliminate the obstacles and barriers
related to digital equity.

Needs Assessment
With the goal of 95% statewide adoption of broadband, MIHI conducted a comprehensive
community engagement strategy wherein community members and stakeholders shared their
biggest broadband barriers via surveys to collect information on the barriers Michiganders face,
specifically covered populations, when accessing broadband. The results of the needs
assessment emphasized that the most significant barrier to internet adoption was the
availability of broadband service. Affordability and the need for digital skills to effectively utilize
the internet were also considered as significant concerns. These findings are guiding MIHI's
efforts to develop targeted tactics and objectives that respond to the specific needs of these
covered populations and to help achieve digital equity throughout Michigan.

Coordination and Outreach Strategy

Core to MIHI's coordination and outreach strategy is MI Connected Future (MICF), an inclusive
engagement model that aims to facilitate stakeholder and community engagement by promoting
robust outreach and input, specifically targeted to covered populations. The MICF model has
four primary components - community meetings, partnership roundtables, data collection, and
public comment - that are crucial to its implementation. These components are designed to
gather data and feedback from community members and organizations to further improve the
Digital Equity Plan.

Implementation Strategy
MIHI’s implementation strategy is derived from the data and feedback gathered from
community members and organizations during MICF. As a result, MIHI plans to implement a
Digital Navigator program that’s aim is to promote community-based solutions, address the
digital divide equitably based on individual community requirements, and facilitate high-speed
internet access and digital skills training opportunities in urban, suburban, and rural areas. The
implementation strategy include a robust network of digital navigators deployed throughout the
state and designed to support community needs. Each navigator will support the capacity
building of individuals through digital skills training, by providing resources for device access,
and affordability resources. Navigators will be instrumental in barrier removal for individuals
and have an emphasis on supporting underrepresented communities and covered populations.

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1 Introduction and Vision for Digital Equity

1.1 Vision
Broadband in the 21st century is a necessity yet much of Michigan remains without access to an
affordable, or reliable broadband connection. The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI)
recognizes the importance of broadband access to its citizens which promotes economic
opportunity, educational attainment, health outcomes, and civic engagement. MIHI envisions a
connected and inclusive state where every resident has an affordable high-speed internet
connection available to them regardless of where they live, how much money they make, or what
they look like. Digital equity in Michigan looks like state-wide universal broadband availability,
affordable broadband subscription plans for middle- and low-income households, at least one
internet enabled device per household, inclusive training and technical support services for
devices, digital skills, and personal cybersecurity.

Digital equity is not something that can be accomplished with a one-size-fits-all approach. The
needs of each corner of our state vary tremendously, as do they vary from household to
household. For example, the Eastern Upper Peninsula lacks broadband infrastructure apart
from portions of its towns, compared to Detroit which has infrastructure, but is met with
affordability barriers for many of its residents. MIHI will not be satisfied with a blanket
approach to digital equity wherein each region of our state has the same solution to close the
divide. Digital equity means meeting communities and people where they are, connecting them
to the resources that already exist, learning about problems that persist, and providing
community level technical support to encourage accessibility and promote adoption.

Communities know communities best. Our vision is to approach the digital divide by employing
a grassroots strategy where communities lead the conversation and work toward solutions in
tandem with MIHI and other state agencies. By building off the existing work community
leaders already have in place and resources available locally, and by providing support for
technical assistance, by fostering connections between communities and existing programs and
services (state, regional, or otherwise), while following a coordinated approach, Michigan will
close the digital divide by 2030.

1.2 Alignment with Existing Efforts to Improve Outcomes

MIHI recognizes the importance and impact of infrastructure deployment on digital equity. As
such, the structure of the MIHI office is designed in an intentional way wherein members of the
infrastructure team and the Digital Equity team collaborate on cross-over projects and programs
to ensure infrastructure deployment is conducted equitably. MIHI will cross reference existing
infrastructure with planned infrastructure and overlay it with feedback collected from the state-
wide engagement tour to ensure the needs of the community are being met in a holistic manner.
Details regarding specifics of infrastructure rollout strategies will be provided in the Michigan
Initial Proposal (BEAD Program activity).

MIHI operates based on two strategic state goals:

1. Universal availability of reliable internet service, and,
2. 95% adoption of internet service at the home

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As of 2021, 30% of Michiganders struggle with some form of the digital divide7, but
overwhelmingly, MIHI heard from communities that the lack of availability was the biggest
concern. MIHI is working to braid existing American Rescue Plan Act – Coronavirus Capital
Projects Funding (ARPA-CPF)8 with future BEAD program dollars to support the build out of a
reliable high-speed internet network throughout the state. MIHI is confident with strategic
planning and collaboration with internet service providers and communities, goal one will be
accomplished by 2030. Additionally, once a plan has been developed to use BEAD funding to
bring affordable, high-speed broadband service to all unserved and underserved locations,
BEAD funding may be used for non-deployment uses such as digital skills training, education
programs, affordability program enrollment assistance, and other digital equity uses that
support adoption.

While it is easy to solve the availability problem, the adoption goal becomes increasingly
complex. The American Community Survey monitors households that do not have an internet
connection, but there is little information available as to why Michiganders don’t have an
internet connection at their home. Barriers to adoption come in many forms and are evidenced
in the feedback MIHI collected as part of its MI Connected Future (MICF) state-wide listening
tour9; however, the most commonly identified barrier (second to availability) was affordability
of service. MIHI is looking to solve the affordability gap through creative engagement with
communities and service providers to share existing resources that support affordability of
internet service for Michiganders and to explore options for provider-led affordability programs.

Additionally, as MIHI toured the state to learn from Michigander’s as to why they were not
online, many communities provided their community plans for digital equity and infrastructure
expansion. Some of those plans are referenced later in this document, but MIHI will incorporate
the content of the existing plans into the implementation of the Digital Equity Act
implementation activities by working with community task forces, Tribal nations, and
municipalities seeking broadband expansion and digital equity initiatives.

Economic and Workforce Outcomes

MIHI is located within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). The LEO
strategic plan for FY2022-FY2026 emphasizes five strategic focus areas:

1. Close equity gaps

a. Prioritize closure of socioeconomic/demographic opportunity gaps in all decision
making
2. Protect and enhance health, safety, and economic security for workers
a. Ensure safe working conditions, fair wages, and labor protections
3. Educate Michiganders and grow the middle class by removing barriers to employment
a. Support education, training, onramps, certifications to make sustaining wages more
attainable.
b. Address barriers including housing, transportation, healthcare, childcare, language,
and placement.
c. Address talent shortages in current and future growth sectors in every region of the
state.

7 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Roadmap (2021), Michigan High-Speed Internet Office
8 Also known as the Realizing Opportunities through Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN)
9 MI Connected Future (MICF), an inclusive engagement model that aims to facilitate stakeholder and community engagement by
promoting robust outreach and input, specifically targeted to covered populations. See section 4 for a full description of this state-
wide listening tour.

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4. Create better jobs and support small businesses

a. Become the benchmark of economic development y supporting the creation of good
and promising jobs that make Michigan’s economy more resilient, while
implementing the state’s first small business strategy that includes focusing on
microbusinesses.
b. Address talent shortages in current and future growth sectors in every region of the
state.
5. Build strong communities and have great places to live
a. Create a strong foundation for communities to grow by making historic investments
in broadband, housing, and other critical infrastructure.
b. Invest in developing vibrant places with rich amenities.

Worker attraction is paramount to the success of the LEO strategic plan, but to attract workers,
the state must also attract employers. Many parts of rural and northern Michigan lack
broadband infrastructure that makes it nearly impossible to motivate a business to locate in
these areas. The growth of e-commerce, digitization of business practices, and even the
automation of worker facing platforms, the internet is key to running a successful small (or
large) business. MIHI also recognizes the importance of attracting workers equitably and
removing barriers to entry for historically underrepresented communities, including English
language learners, women, and people of color.

In addition to barrier removal, worker retraining and upskilling will be necessary to fill looming
employment gaps in the trades industry which are crucial to the success of the ARPA- CPF and
BEAD programs. The National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA)
projects a labor shortfall of more than 11% over the next five years for laborers and material
movers, and a shortfall of nearly 10% for inspectors. MIHI is partnering with existing state
programs to elevate the importance of the trades and the programs available currently that will
remove barriers to entry for Michiganders, like MiSTEM, MiYARN, and other LEO based
programs.

Educational Outcomes

Households with a broadband connection make, on average, over $2,000 more per year than
households that do not have a broadband connection10. Similarly, the National Skills Coalition
researched the difference in wages between workers with no digital skills, compared to the
wages of workers with likely digital skills and with wages of workers with up to nine digital skills
(Table 1)11. The wage differences between a job requiring no digital skills compared to a job
requiring nine digital skills equates to a 143% difference in wages.

10 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Roadmap (2021), Michigan High-Speed Internet Office

11 Closing the Digital Skill Divide - National Skills Coalition

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Figure 1: National Skills Coalition Data on Digital Skills Impact on Median Hourly Wage

As more digital skills are required, median hourly wage rises (2021)
$43.00
$37.92
$30.58
$25.50
$21.64
$19.05 $17.62 $18.00

Overall Job requires Job requires Job requires Job requires Job requires Job requires Job requires
(all jobs) no digital skills only likely one definitely three definitely five definitely seven definitely nine definitely
digital skills digital skill digital skills digital skills digital skills digital skills

Source: National Skills Coalition

MIHI recognizes how foundational digital skills are to increasing household income and
educational attainment and aims to incorporate digital skills standards and competencies into
K-12 education settings to improve employment outcomes for workers. Employment and
education are connected tremendously in this regard. The incorporation of digital skills into the
classroom so that they are foundational to the success of education, means workers will have the
digital skills competencies needed to attain higher wages when they enter the workforce.

Health Outcomes

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) elevated the connection
between health outcomes and the digital divide as part of the June 2022 Health Information
Technology Commission report12. This five-year strategy roadmap emphasizes the need to
address “Michigan’s digital divide to help address disparities in health care and social services if
rural parts of the state.” The Health IT Commission highlights the need for online accessibility
among patients and their healthcare provider, given the recent transition to many online patient
management systems. Many health systems exclusively utilize online health information portals
that require an internet connection and some level of digital skills in order to view and/or
manage. Additionally, the Health IT Commission references challenges in a health IT system
regarding consumer cybersecurity and legality of health information exchange.

The Health IT Commission also identifies the need for online data services to promote capacity
building for “more complete insight into utilization, quality improvement, and evidence-based
intervention design.” The purpose of this initiative is to promote holistic wellness and health
outcomes and monitor the improvement of health among rural residents.

MIHI supports the use of telemedicine wherever possible to improve patient outcomes,
particularly to enhance patient access, improve care, and reduce costs (direct or indirect) to the
patient. Telemedicine cannot be utilized in a community lacking broadband infrastructure, or
affordable access to said infrastructure and as such, health disparities will continue to occur in
rural and underrepresented populations if not deployed equitably.

12 CY2022 Bridge to Better Health Final Draft Document (michigan.gov)

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It is also important to note there are medical researchers and medical professionals (and the
National Digital Inclusion Alliance) who identify broadband access as a “super social
determinant of health” because of its ability to impact all other Social Determinants of Health's
(SDOH).

Civic and Social Engagement

Voter records and registrations are managed by an electronic pollbook system in Michigan
which means rural communities will need sustained access to a reliable internet connection to
ensure safety of the elections over the course of the nine day early voting period.

Photo ID’s are a requirement to vote in Michigan. Photo IDs can be obtained by visiting the
Secretary of State branches however, one must obtain an appointment to avoid spending an
afternoon in a government office waiting to receive the ID. Appointments can only be booked
online. The Michigan Department of State is transitioning some services online, including
registering to vote and renewing one’s photo ID or Driver’s License. The online transition allows
for expanded access for Michiganders to obtain the photo ID needed to engage in elections
(among other activities) on their own time and in their own home. The same is not true however
for those lacking a reliable internet connection in their home.

In addition to online civil engagement, many government assistance programs utilize online
application systems for those seeking assistance. For those without internet, they are not only
unable to apply for the benefits they need, but also they may be unaware that benefits even exist.

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1.3 Strategy and Objectives

To accomplish the vision for Michigan, MIHI aims to employ a holistic strategy focused on
meeting the needs of communities by community members themselves. MIHI will serve as a
resource and provide support to remove barriers. Partnership with existing state agencies and
communities will be paramount to maximizing the reach of the Digital Equity Act (DEA) and its
subsequent funding.
Outlined below are the strategies in which MIHI will utilize to close the digital divide in
Michigan, followed by how MIHI will measure the progress of the goals with key performance
indicators (KPIs). The KPIs are crucial to measuring success of the holistic approach and
effectiveness of closing the digital divide for Michiganders by focusing on the availability of and
affordability of access to, fixed and wireless broadband technology, the online accessibility and
inclusivity of public resources and services, digital literacy, securing online privacy of
individuals, and the availability and affordability of consumer devices and technical support for
those devices.

Goal Strategy
Ensure all Michiganders have access to an Collaborate and align efforts between DEA
affordable, reliable high-speed internet planned activities with BEAD planned
connection at their home activities and partner with communities,
Tribal governments, and state agencies to
align similar goals and timelines for
infrastructure deployment and digital equity
initiatives
Attract workers and employers to Michigan Coordinate, partner, and support existing
workforce development strategies and
programs housed within the LEO and other
relevant state agencies
Improve educational attainment including Collaborate and partner with Michigan
removing barriers for credentialed workers Department of Education to elevate online
and in postsecondary achievement learning opportunities and additional
pathways to digital skills development for
adults

Improve overall health outcomes, particularly Coordinate and collaborate with the Michigan
with improvement in rural areas and in Department of Health and Human Services to
underrepresented populations monitor health outcomes pre- and post-
deployment of broadband projects in rural
and underrepresented communities

Educate Michiganders about the online Coordinate and collaborate with the Michigan
services available to them as a citizen Department of State to provide trainings to
Michiganders about their digital citizenship

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Collaborate and align efforts between DEA planned activities with BEAD
planned activities and partner with communities, Tribal governments, and
state agencies to align similar goals and timelines for infrastructure
deployment and digital equity initiatives
MIHI recognizes and values the work municipalities, counties, Tribal governments, and other
state agencies have already done to close the digital divide in their respective communities.
MIHI also recognizes the importance of collaboration in order to implement BEAD deployment
dollars into the communities that need the infrastructure the most. Collaboration with local
units of government is paramount to the success of the DEA and BEAD.
The structure of MIHI office is intentionally designed in such a way that the Infrastructure team
works closely with the Digital Equity team to ensure both teams are aligned on timelines,
upcoming projects, and existing community plans so as to not invalidate the work of community
on a project. Throughout the MICF listening tour, the MIHI team heard about the work already
happening throughout our state and wants to ensure projects (particularly BEAD deployment
projects), align with the goals of the community task forces already in place. Universal
availability cannot be accomplished without the voice of community and MIHI aims to work in
tandem with community leaders to deploy infrastructure and digital equity initiatives.
Equitable implementation and alignment of the DEA and BEAD requires an equitable approach
for each region of our state. The digital equity needs of the Upper Peninsula vary greatly from
those of Detroit, and it is the goal of MIHI to support communities by developing a unique
solution to each community’s needs.
Geographic barriers are important, however they are not the only barrier many communities
face when looking at solutions to closing the digital divide. Historically underrepresented
communities and covered populations (aging individuals, people of color, non-English speakers
to name a few), have unique barriers to full participation in the digital world. Collaboration with
organizations and agencies that are comprised of, or represent covered populations are also
imperative to the success of the DEA and BEAD alignment and implementation. MIHI continues
to collaborate with and learn from organizations who serve covered populations so as to
incorporate barrier removal strategies which may not have been initially considered.
MIHI aims to holistically align and implement efforts funded by the DEA and BEAD to the best
of its ability, with the recognition that community involvement is the key to its long-term
success at closing the digital divide. MIHI will actively work to elevate the voices of
underrepresented communities and populations throughout the planning and implementation
process for DEA and BEAD funded programs.
Additionally, MIHI collaborates with other state agencies supporting infrastructure deployment
activities to ensure projects are planned with similar timelines and cohesiveness. State agencies
include, the Michigan Infrastructure Office, the Michigan Department of Transportation, the
Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the Department of Natural Resources,
the LEO, and the Executive Office of the Governor.

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Coordinate, partner, and support existing workforce development strategies

and programs housed within the LEO and other relevant state agencies

The strategies and objectives MIHI will employ to achieve its goal of attracting workers and
employers to Michigan and to improve economic and workforce outcomes for the state include
emphasis on strong labor standards, the attraction, retention, and transition of skilled workers,
and outlines the importance of partnership with in-house training organizations and community
colleges to achieve the goal.

MIHI and the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) support all efforts to
promote strong labor standards to ensure worker safety. The workforce and labor division of
LEO focuses on “ensuring workplace safety and equitable labor relations for employees and
employers.” MIHI plans to require potential subgrantees to comply with the strong labor
standards outlined in the BEAD NOFO including, but not limited to, using a directly employed
workforce, compliance with Davis-Bacon Act requirements (including the collection of certified
payrolls), using project labor agreements, local hire provisions, union neutrality commitments
from all subgrantees, and proof of an appropriately skilled and credentialed workforce. To
support employers unfamiliar with Davis-Bacon Act requirements, MIHI will conduct a series of
technical assistance webinars tailored to employers to prevent compliance failures. MIHI will
continue to collaborate with Labor Division leadership to ensure accuracy of information and
equitable outreach to industry leaders.

Additionally, LEO identifies safe working conditions, fair wages, and labor protections for
workers in its 5-year operational plan. One relevant strategy to achieving this goal in the context
of the DEA is through strategic promotion of the workplace rights one-stop site which
emphasizes responsibilities, rights, compliance requirements, and regulations. The one-stop site
is a resource for employers and employees to ensure safe working conditions and strong labor
practices. MIHI will encourage subgrantees to utilize the workplace rights one-stop site and to
promote it to their workforce.

LEO prioritizes talent and worker attraction within Michigan as evidenced in the LEO 5-Year
operations plan. As a division of LEO, MIHI operates under the same goals. Additionally, LEO
has established the Infrastructure Workforce Taskforce (IWT) following the passage of the
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). MIHI is a member of the IWT which operates with the goal
to “identify opportunities and develop plan for increasing talent pipeline for infrastructure jobs
in order to:

1. Translate unprecedented BIL resources into good paying jobs and career pathways
with diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility focus, and;
2. Mitigate labor market inflation at height of BIL investments in order to improve
effectiveness economy-wide.”

The IWT is comprised of LEO division heads and representatives from the Michigan
Infrastructure Office (MIO) to ensure coordinated approach to workforce attraction plans across
the state.

Outlined below are relevant plans, strategies, and programs LEO and other State of Michigan
Departments have in place. This list is not exhaustive in nature.

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Agency Strategy/Plan/Program

Michigan Economic $34 million talent attraction and retention strategy targeting
Development student, job seekers and industry professionals in key growth areas
Corporation (MEDC) (i.e., EV mobility and semiconductor industries).

STEM-Forward Internship program connects students, who attend

MEDC Michigan colleges and universities, with paid internship
opportunities in STEM-focused careers.
LEO - Michigan Science, Removing barriers to employment by increasing the implementation
Technology, Engineering, of project-, problem-, and place-based education-based instruction
and Math in K-12 schools in Michigan and expose 200,000 students to STEM
(MiSTEM)Network careers.
Addressing talent shortages by engaging and creating customized
targeted solutions to meet employer needs by:
LEO – Workforce
• Establishing and strengthening existing employer-led
Development, Education
collaboratives (ELCs)
and Training (E&T)
• Aligning career pathways and educational credentials that lead to
transferrable skills and increased wages for job seekers
Expand talent in Michigan by upskilling and reskilling Michiganders
and leverage resources resulting in 7,500 postsecondary credentials
by:
• Promoting tuition free pathways to obtain postsecondary
credentials;
LEO – E&T; MEDC
• Expanding relationships with secondary and postsecondary
education providers to improve job outcomes for students with
disabilities; and,
• Boosting apprenticeship opportunities to obtain industry-
recognized credentials.
Expand Michigan’s labor force by providing job readiness services to
LEO – E&T; Michigan 800 people by conducting outreach activities and supporting eligible
Works! Agencies persons experiencing barriers to employment to re-enter the labor
force.

Help 50,000 Michigan women re-enter or remain in the workforce

LEO – Office of with support of the Tri-Share Child Care program and the MI
Prosperity; Women’s Fostering Access, Rights and Equity (MI FARE) program. MI FARE
Commission is designed to educate women workers about their employment
rights and benefits.

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Agency Strategy/Plan/Program

MDOC operates a skilled trades training program that aims to

provide a positive learning community for prisoners who are serious
about completing career and technical education.
Prisoners complete training at the vocational village located in the
state prison facilities. Career paths include (but are not limited to):
Michigan Department of
• Commercial Driving License and Forklift Operation
Corrections (MDOC)
• Carpentry
• Electrical
• Computer Coding
• Computer Numerical Control Machine Tooling and Robotics
• Line Clearance and Tree Trimming

MIHI is aware of several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that conduct in-house training
programs, as well as labor unions who support training programs. MIHI will require any
subgrantee to outline their in-house training programs to determine appropriate skilling for the
projects which they are seeking funding.

Workforce gaps are top of mind for Michigan policy makers and agencies, especially as Michigan
is entering the time for unprecedented BIL buildouts. MIHI is plugged in to existing workforce
development structures within the state given the vast network stewarded by our Workforce
Development division. Partners in this space are eager to engage with MIHI to support
workforce growth in their respective capacities.

MIHI partners with LEO E&T to support relationship building among the Michigan Community
College Association (MCCA), the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators
(MAISA), and Michigan Occupational Dean’s Advisory Council (MODAC). Additionally, LEO
houses the Michigan office of Registered Apprenticeships which provides supportive services
and funding for employers of apprentices. The GoingPRO Talent fund supports employers in
reskilling new workers and ensures a pathway to credentialling as part of the involvement in the
program. GoingPRO is housed in the WD division. Other programs include the Michigan Youth
Apprenticeship Readiness Network (MiYARN) which aims to expand youth registered
apprenticeships by partnering with regional entities, the Michigan Learning and Education
Advancement Program (MiLEAP) which supports in the transition from education and training
programs to high-wage jobs. MiLEAP focuses on underrepresented populations, particularly
that of economically distressed rural and urban areas.

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Collaborate and partner with Michigan Department of Education and other

state agencies, to incorporate a statewide digital skills curriculum for K-12
students, and additional pathways to digital skills development for adults

The Michigan Department of Education’s (MDE) Top 10 Strategic Education Plan was approved
in August 2020 and provides direction to the Michigan education community.13 MDE aims to be
a Top 10 education state in 10 years and employs the strategic education plan to monitor growth
and progress on its eight goals. Three of MDE’s goals most relevant to the work at MIHI are:

• Expand secondary learning opportunities for all students

• Increase the percentage of all students who graduate from high school
• Increase the percentage of adults with a postsecondary credential
The following provides an overview of how MIHI can impact/influence MDE’s goals.
Expand secondary learning opportunities for all students
MDE focuses on six specific areas for secondary learning opportunities:

1. Career and Technical Education

2. Early Middle College
3. Advance Placement
4. International baccalaureate
5. Dual Enrollment
6. Secondary Transition
Closing the digital divide is important for all six focus areas and supports growth and progress
not only in the number of skilled workers able to build the infrastructure needed to close the
availability gaps, particularly in Michigan’s rural communities, but closing the digital divide
ensures more educational opportunities for individuals looking to advance their education, but
may be limited by their school districts’ course offerings.
Dual Enrollment, for example, showcases a strong argument and need for closing the digital
divide. When COVID-19 shut down schools and learning transitioned online, those who were
dual enrolled were now at risk of losing not only their high school credential but also their
college credits or even degree, if they did not have reliable access to the internet. According to
MDE, in the 2018-19 school year, 4.1% of students across all Michigan schools were dual
enrolled. Enrollment declined to 3.7% during 2020-21 and remained into 2021-22.
Subsequently, school districts who offered a dual enrollment opportunity also declined and have
not yet met pre-pandemic numbers. 14

Increase the percentage of all students who graduate from high school

13 Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan

14 https://www.mischooldata.org/dual-enrollment/

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Access to the internet and high school graduation rates may not be directly correlated, however,
a recent study found that Grade Point Average (GPA) does. According to the Quello Center,
students with a “fast” internet connection at home report a GPA of 3.18 compared to their
counterparts with “slow” internet connections at home who reported a GPA of 3.10.
Additionally, students with no internet access at home reported a 2.81 GPA and those who only
had cell phone access to the internet who reported a 2.75 GPA.15 While GPA is not the sole
indicator for graduation, it does play a major part.
MIHI will work with MDE to incorporate awareness campaigns for parents and students about
the importance of an at-home internet connection, and provide a pathway to support the
affordability of, and access to a reliable broadband connection, including affordability of and
access to internet enabled devices. This holistic approach will support families with the
resources needed to get online and support their scholars in school.

Increase the percentage of adults with a postsecondary credential

MDE and LEO partner to achieve Governor Whitmer’s 60x30 initiative. 60x30 is a program
with the goal of supporting 60% of Michigander’s achieving a postsecondary credential or
college degree by removing barriers to attainment. Educational attainment and economic
growth correlate closely, particularly in the earned wages for individuals with a postsecondary
degree or credential.
MIHI is working to expand the broadband skilled trades workforce through partnerships among
industry leaders, and community colleges to ensure Michigan has the skilled workforce needed
to build out the robust broadband network necessary to reach universal availability. This means
credentialed workers will earn more in their lives, and Michigan will be one step closer to
closing the digital divide.
In addition to the Top 10 in 10 strategic plan, MDE adopted a set of competencies to support
consistent digital skills for k-12 schools in 2016. The International Society for Technology in
Education (ISTE) standards have been adopted in Michigan as the Michigan Integrated
Technology Competencies for Students (MITECS).16 These competencies work to integrate
technology into learning for students as a way to enhance their education. 81% of all workforce
sectors indicated the MITECS competencies reflect “high” or “very high” alignment with the
skills needed in their workforce.
MIHI aims to continue collaboration with MDE to meet the digital skills gap and promote
workforce development for K-12 students, but will also work to ensure adult learners and
covered populations have ready access to a digital skills curriculum regardless of enrollment
status in a postsecondary education program. MIHI and the State of Michigan Library plan to
incorporate free access to a digital skills learning platform via local libraries and Michigan
Works! Associations.

15 Hampton, K. N., Fernandez, L., Robertson, C. T., & Bauer, J. M. Broadband and Student Performance
Gaps. James H. and Mary B. Quello Center, Michigan State University. https://doi.org/10.25335/BZGY-
3V91
16 MITECS

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Coordinate and collaborate with the Michigan Department of Health and

Human Services to monitor health outcomes pre- and post-deployment of
broadband projects in rural and underrepresented communities

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) operates with the vision to
“deliver health and opportunity to all Michiganders, reducing intergenerational poverty and
promoting health equity.” With broadband indicated as a super determinant of health (SDOH),
it is imperative to equitably roll out broadband infrastructure and the necessary technical
support to rural and underrepresented communities. Particular emphasis is to be paid to
Michigan’s Tribal communities given their simultaneous rurality and historically
underrepresented status.
MIHI and MDHHS will work together to support the monitoring and tracking of health
outcomes in areas both pre- and post-deployment through existing health monitoring and could
expand to new datasets as needed. Continued partnership with the Health IT commission is
paramount to improving health outcomes for Michigan.
Additionally, MIHI will work with MDHHS to promote and improve the way in which benefits
such as SNAP, FAP, Medicare, and Medicaid are accessed by improving the MIBridges portal to
improve accessibility for individuals with few digital skills. MIHI and MDHHS will work to
promote relevant programs to MIBridges users, such as the Affordable Connectivity Program.

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Coordinate and collaborate with the Michigan Department of State to

provide trainings to Michiganders about their digital citizenship

With the rise of political and civic engagement transitioning to exclusively online mechanisms, it
is imperative to support covered populations in getting involved in the services provided by the
state. The Michigan Department of State emphasizes equity in engagement and utilizes a team
of individuals to specifically reach out to historically underrepresented communities regarding
the changes MDOS is implementing and how it will effect them. MIHI and the MDOS will work
closely to educate Michiganders on the tools available to engage digitally.
Additionally, to promote safety and security of covered populations, MIHI will work with MDOS
to educate individuals on the importance of protecting online activities and how to do so. Many
Michiganders indicate that they refrain from using online services due to cybersecurity
concerns. By utilizing preventative education, the online transition will promote better civic
engagement for Michigan through ease of access and barrier removal to voter registration
and/or license renewals.

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Key Performance Indicators:

Below are the key performance indicators by which MIHI will measure the effectiveness of the
Digital Equity Act implementation plan. The goals and strategies outlined above detail the
holistic ways in which MIHI will work to support the systemic changes needed to close the
digital divide effectively and permanently. The goals and KPIs are designed to work in tandem,
but may not initially appear to align, however they are intrinsically connected. For example, the
goal of attracting workers and businesses to Michigan will be effected as MIHI improves the
affordability and availability of service throughout the state, particularly rural areas. With more
broadband availability, more Michiganders can work from home, which will impact their income
or their options for educational advancement, and so on.
Each KPI will be measured on a scale that will indicate zero when the digital divide has been
closed. The baseline for each of the below KPIs will be determined as part of the initial phase of
the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant and the short-term goals will be determined following
the results of the baseline, however, the long-term goal for each will be to reach zero (0) thereby
indicated the digital divide has been closed. The data for KPIs is a combination of public data
sources including the American Community Survey, the FCC, and the Computer Use Survey.
1. The availability of, and affordability of access to fixed and wireless broadband technology
a. An affordability score that combines three data sets
i. Internet-income ratio developed as part of Purdue University’s Digital
Divide Index (measured by each covered population in each region)
ii. The ratio between the FCC’s Benchmark Rate for 100/20 Mbps unlimited
internet service and what each covered population in each region would
pay for home internet service
iii. Percentage of households who temporarily lost their internet connection
due to inability or difficulty paying for the subscription (measured by each
covered population in each region)
2. The online accessibility and inclusivity of public resources and services
a. A digital government accessibility score
i. Likelihood of each covered population to access government services
online as compared to how likely they are to use telehealth, online
banking, or online consumer services
3. Digital literacy
a. A digital participation score that combines two things:
i. Proportion of each covered population in each region that struggles to use
computers or internet devices
ii. Likelihood of each covered population is to do various online tasks versus
the overall statewide average
4. Awareness of, and the use of, measures to secure the online privacy of, and cybersecurity
with respect to an individual
a. A Digital Security Score that combines two things:
i. The percentage of each covered population in each region which has
refrained from one or more online activities due to cybersecurity concerns
ii. The percentage of each covered population in each region which doesn’t
use the internet at all due to cybersecurity or privacy concerns
5. The availability and affordability of consumer devices and technical support for those
devices

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a. A Device Distress Score for each covered population in each region that
compares:
i. Percentage of homes with no computing device at all
ii. Percentage of homes with only a smartphone
iii. Percentage of homes where someone was unable to use a computer five or
more days during the last six months because someone else was using it/it
was elsewhere/it was otherwise inaccessible

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2 Current State of Digital Equity: Barriers and Assets

2.1 Asset Inventory
The objective of this section is to provide an overview of the specific advantages that the state of
Michigan has in terms of advancing digital equity for underserved communities. It aims to
compile a comprehensive list of existing resources, programs, and strategies that contribute to
digital inclusion and promote availability and adoption. The inventory encompasses both
publicly and privately funded assets, as well as digital equity initiatives and plans initiated by
various governmental entities such as municipal, regional, and Tribal governments.
By conducting this asset inventory, the state of Michigan aims to identify and highlight the key
resources at its disposal, enabling the effective implementation of the Digital Equity Plan. This
comprehensive approach aims to bridge the existing gaps and address the specific needs of the
state in order to accomplish its goals and objectives for achieving digital equity.

2.1.1 Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population

2.1.1.1 Introduction and Methodology for Identifying Digital Inclusion Assets

Leveraging existing assets is a key strategy for both the Digital Equity and BEAD programs, this
is why MIHI developed a Digital Inclusion Resource Map in September 2022. The map serves as
a tool for:
1. Collecting information regarding existing assets from the communities
2. Understanding the current digital inclusion programs, offerings, and resources available in
communities across Michigan.
3. Promoting these new and existing programs to communities
The map was developed based on responses received to the Michigan Statewide Digital
Inclusion survey developed by MIHI and distributed to key stakeholders and the public
throughout the state. MIHI used several channels to engage stakeholders and encourage
participation in the survey, including socializing it at community meetings as part of the MI
Connected Future tour, Partnership Roundtables, and in the MIHI newsletter. Additionally, the
survey is easily accessible and prominently displayed on the MIHI website. By targeting
stakeholders, such as non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, government agencies,
colleges, universities, trade schools, public libraries, and K-12 schools, the survey seeks to
determine the current state of digital equity and inclusion programs and identify key
organizations involved in these efforts. Based on these insights, the Digital Inclusion Resource
Map is continuously updated, providing an ongoing and up-to-date inventory of digital inclusion
assets in Michigan.
In addition to the Digital Inclusion Resource Map, MIHI has independently developed a robust
list of assets, plans, and programs that can support digital inclusion. As a way to identify the
resource and initiatives and associated gaps in each, the MIHI office developed a robust and
innovative community and stakeholder engagement process called MI Connected Future
(MICF). The MICF aimed to holistically and authentically engage with communities and

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stakeholders to provide the state with input and direction needed to achieve universal
broadband access and a more digitally equitable state. MIHI adopted the ethos of “listen first,
plan second” to ensure the needs and current challenges of communities and stakeholders were
collected and incorporated into the planning process equitably. This key initiative demonstrates
that Michigan is at the forefront of the efforts to promote digital equity and inclusion. MIHI will
continue working towards achieving its goal of a more connected and equitable Michigan by
maintaining a collaborative approach with stakeholders across the state and providing ongoing
support for existing and emerging digital equity and inclusion assets, plans, and programs.

2.1.1.2 Digital Inclusion Assets

In addition to the Digital Inclusion Resource Map and MICF, MIHI has identified other assets
throughout the state that can play a significant role in closing the digital divide across the state
of Michigan. The assets identified in this section do not constitute an exhaustive list but
represent a best effort from the MIHI Office to identify key assets across state government.

In this section, a selection of the state’s digital inclusion assets were aligned with the covered
populations they support, as outlined in Table 2. Additional assets identified through the
Michigan Statewide Digital Inclusion survey are summarized in Appendix A-1. For clarity and
context, a definition for each of the covered population categories are presented in Table 1,
sourced from the Digital Equity Act of 2021. Despite not being a covered population under the
Digital Equity Act of 2021, at-risk youth category was added to the list based on the Digital
Inclusion Resource Map survey, which reflected significant digital inclusion efforts in this area.

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Table 1: Definitions of Covered Populations

Covered Population Description

Households with income no more than 150 percent

Covered households
of the federal poverty threshold.

Aging Individuals Individuals 60 years and older.

All persons in State prisons, local jails and other

municipal confinement facilities, correctional
residential facilities, and correctional facilities
Incarcerated individuals
intended for juveniles. This does not include
individuals who are incarcerated in a federal
correctional facility.
All persons aged 18 years and older who served in
Veterans the armed forces in the past but are no longer on
active duty.
A person who has a physical or mental impairment
that substantially limits one or more major life
Individuals with disabilities activities, a person who has a history or record of
such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by
others as having such an impairment17.
This includes:
a) English learners: Individuals who speak a
Individuals with language language other than English at home and
barriers speak English less than “very well.”
b) Have low levels of literacy: Individuals below
literacy proficiency

Individuals who identify as a race other than White

Racial or ethnic minorities
alone or as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Individuals living outside of cities and towns with

more than 20,000 residents or living outside larger
Rural community
cities and towns with more than 50,000 residents
and their surrounding urban areas.

An individual who is less than 18 years of age who

At-risk youth faces extreme threats to a successful transition into
adulthood.

17 Guide to Disability Rights Laws | ADA.gov

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Table 2: Select Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population

Select Digital Inclusion

Covered Populations
Assets
Covered Aging Incarcerated Veterans Individuals Individuals Racial/Ethnic Rural Youth
households individuals individuals with with a minorities community
disabilities language
barrier

MI Dept. of Labor and

Economic Opportunity
(LEO), Michigan Poverty ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Taskforce
MI Dept. of Labor and
Economic Opportunity
(LEO), Office of Global ✓ ✓
Michigan
Michigan 2-1-1, 2-1-1
Assistance ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
MI Public Service
Commission (MPSC), Wi- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Fi Hot Spot Map
MI Dept. of Technology,
Management, and Budget
(DTMB), Michigan ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Geographic Framework
DTMB, Michigan Public
Safety Communications ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
System (MPSCS)
MI Dept. of Health and
Human Services,
Community Information ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Exchange (CIE)
Southeast Michigan
Broadband Navigator ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Washtenaw Community
College, Fiber Optics ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Certifications
Closing the Digital Gap
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Human-I-T
✓
Michigan Public Libraries
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Michigan K-12 schools and
school districts ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Community Centers
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Health
Divisions/Departments ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
A more detailed description of the select digital inclusion assets are included below:

MI Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), Michigan Poverty

Taskforce
The Michigan PTF is committed to finding ways to strengthen, broaden, coordinate, and
streamline existing state efforts to ensure that Michigan families have access to the support they
need. The Michigan PTF will work to evaluate measures and better understand poverty's impact
on Michigan families and communities, identifying root causes and opportunities to bring
positive change. The PTF is creating a coordinated plan to help communities address the digital

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divide, which acts as a barrier for families in accessing available economic, educational, health,
housing, and safety services, and it awarded funding to create a playbook for local communities
to plan their broadband expansion efforts. The Michigan Poverty Task Force can help promote
digital equity by identifying root causes of poverty, reducing access barriers, and streamlining
efforts across the state to ensure accessibility to digital resources and technology for all covered
populations.

MI Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), Office of Global Michigan

The mission of the Office of Global Michigan is to empower and engage the immigrant, refugee,
and international community to make Michigan the home for opportunity. The office assists
immigrant and refugee communities with connectivity needs, as well as licensing, workforce
training, education, housing, healthcare, and quality of life. The Office also works with state
agencies that provide services to immigrants and refugees and strives to minimize or eliminate
barriers to accessing those state services.

Michigan 2-1-1, 2-1-1 Assistance

Michigan 2-1-1 provides individuals with a confidential and free-to-use service (by simply calling
or texting 2-1-1 or visiting their website), connecting all covered populations with local
community-based organizations offering thousands of programs and services. 2-1-1 Assistance is
a robust information and referral system that provides users with information on a range of
services, including the Affordable Connectivity Program, and assistance with needs such as food,
housing, financial aid, employment, childcare, education, healthcare, and mental health, as well
as household needs and utility payments. Michigan 2-1-1 serves as a connectivity tool for
individuals seeking help and resources within their community. The accessibility of this service,
one of 2-1-1’s guiding principles, on a digital platform helps promote digital equity and ensure
that all individuals have access to critical resources.

MI Public Service Commission (MPSC), Wi-Fi Hot Spot Map

During the COVID-19 pandemic, MPSC partnered with Connected Nation Michigan to create a
map of known public Wi-Fi hotspots to support those without a home connection. The resulting
interactive broadband map enables all covered populations to search for broadband availability
by street address, view the types of broadband available, and locate providers offering service at
their home or business.

MI Dept. of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB), Michigan Geographic

Framework
DTMB supports the business operations of state agencies through services such as the
management of a variety of geospatial datasets, enterprise software licenses, aerial photography,
and other remote sensing products that can be used for various purposes. The Michigan
Geographic Framework serves as the digital base map for the State government and assists in
maintaining core enterprise spatial assets. The Michigan Geographic Framework is an
integrated and centralized place to store and maintain data, where it can also be standardized
and shared with other entities to create accurate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) maps.

DTMB, Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS)

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The MPSCS is a network of over 300 towers and more than 14,000 radios located throughout
the state that supports public safety communications, such as first responders in their service to
citizens. These towers can also be used as colocation points for wireless broadband facilities.
MPSCS also provides interoperable voice and data communications to federal, state, local and
private public safety agencies all over the state of Michigan.

MI Dept. of Health and Human Services, Community Information Exchange

(CIE)
CIE is a localized effort to create and sustain the technology and relationships required to
support Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) needs of both individuals and communities. CIE
maximizes a person-centered approach by ensuring social care information for all covered
populations is collected only as needed and is stored safely. CIE's initiatives encompass a wide
range of objectives related to digital equity, including expanding broadband access, supporting
digital literacy, and promoting patient agency in accessing and mediating their health and social
care data.

Southeast Michigan Broadband Navigator

The Southeast Michigan Broadband Navigator is a resource that provides information on
broadband availability, digital literacy, equity, inclusion, cybersecurity, funding, and programs.
It is a resource for communities, governments, educators, and stakeholders by providing data
and maps on broadband availability and usage. The navigator will be regularly updated and
expanded to address emerging issues and respond to feedback from stakeholders. The intent of
the Navigator is to help Michigan residents answer questions related to broadband access,
availability, and affordability, as well as provide information on resources and policies to
increase equitable broadband access.

Washtenaw Community College, Fiber Optics Certifications

Washtenaw Community College offers certification courses for fiber optic technicians, fiber
specialists in testing and maintenance, and fiber specialist in splicing. The comprehensive
training program combines theory and hands-on learning experiences to prepare any individual,
with a high school diploma, to take the Certified Fiber Optic Technician exam.

Closing the Digital Gap (CTDG)

CTDG is a nonprofit corporation headquartered in Lansing. Closing the Digital Gap provides
computer training, computer ownership and internet access to small non-profit organizations
and individual in Michigan who may be unemployed, underemployed, low-income, single
parents, disabled, veterans, immigrants, at-risk youth, and seniors. Its mission is to provide low-
to moderate income residents of the service area the opportunity to earn or purchase a low-cost
computer, receive computer/Internet training and access internet services for low-cost, along
with assisting participants in making connections with community resources through referrals
for further training or resources that may lead to employment and/or educational enrichment
for participants and their families. CTDG further services micro-enterprises/entrepreneurs and
small non-profits to support with technology and training in Michigan both online, in-person,
and through a blended delivery of training, programs and services.

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Human-I-T
Human-I-T is an organization that believes removing systemic social and economic barriers is
essential to shrinking the digital divide. They are committed to shrinking the digital divide by
providing communities with equitable access to opportunity through devices, internet access,
digital skills training, and tech support. The organization has distributed 318K tech items,
assisted 105K households with internet and provided digital literacy training to 7K learners. The
organization runs an online store, HITConnect.org, which offers laptops, desktops, and tablets
for as low as $50 per device to Detroiters. They also offer Detroit households eligible for
Comcast Internet Essentials high-speed home Wi-Fi for $9.95 a month.

Michigan Public Libraries

Across the state, Michigan has 665 public libraries, which are integral to supporting digital
equity and inclusion efforts. Michigan public libraries commonly offer public computers and
free internet access through wireless connections (Wi-Fi), although the availability of services
and technologies may differ across locations; the overarching aim is to provide individuals with
access to resources and information, both in physical and digital formats. For instance, the Elk
Rapids District Library has allowed library cardholders to access Wi-Fi hotspots for the past six
years due to the high cost and unreliable nature of rural internet. Similarly, the Kent District
Library provides an array of digital and technical resources, such as one-on-one technology
tutoring, classes for seniors learning computer basics, and computer software tutorial courses.
Hence, libraries play an integral role in building digital literacy, engaging in workforce
development, and expanding access to the internet across the state.

Michigan K-12 schools and school districts

Primary and secondary institutions play an integral role in developing digital literacy skills for
children and adolescents. There are a total of 899 districts in Michigan, with 3,400 public
schools serving over 1.4 million students. The Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies
for Students (MITECS) is a statewide effort spearheaded by the Michigan Department of
Education to focus on learning enhanced by technology by integrating technology competencies
across all areas. Digital literacy plays a large part in the effort, centralizing on responsible digital
citizenship and the utilization of digital tools to solve problems and achieve goals in a creative,
innovative, and collaborative manner. Additionally, some school districts, such as the Detroit
Public Schools Community District, have a device lending program that allow students to
borrow laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots to use in and outside classroom settings.
K-12 schools also play a large role in providing internet to students, faculty, and staff. During the
COVID-19 pandemic, many devices such as laptops, wireless tablets, and Wi-Fi hotspots were
loaned to students to complete coursework through distanced learning. Certain schools, such as
schools in St. Clair County, installed wireless hotspots to provide 24-hour internet access across
the county to students, faculty, and staff. K-12 institutions provide the foundation to develop
digital skills through expanding training and access.

Community Centers
Community centers, including those that provide social, educational, or recreational activities,
generally provide services to individuals of all-ages and often serve as locations where
information and resources can be accessed. For instance, the Martin Luther King Community
Center in Jackson has a dedicated computer center and provides Wi-Fi to the public. During the
COVID-19 pandemic, many community centers, such as the New Troy Community Center in

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New Troy and Baxter Community Center in Grand Rapids, were transformed into “Lift Zones”.
Lift Zones was a partnership with Comcast where free Wi-Fi HotSpots were provided to allow
for free access to the internet. Community centers are playing an increasingly large role in
expanding digital equity and access.

Health Divisions/Departments
There are 43 Health Divisions and Departments across the state of Michigan, all tasked with the
promotion of public health and wellness. An essential component of the promotion of public
health is health equity—ensuring all individuals have access to needed resources. Hence, several
Health Divisions and Departments provide services to aiding individuals with online enrollment
in public assistance programs. For example, the Grand Traverse County Health Department has
developed the Michigan Child Collaborative Care (MC3) Telemedicine Program, which provides
psychiatric support to primary care providers in Michigan managing patients with behavioral
health problems. The program supports telehealth by offering same-day phone consultations
and remote psychiatric evaluation via video telepsychiatry. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic
has increased the use of telehealth to provide needed services to the general population.
Telehealth can be beneficial for many populations, such as those living in rural areas, are low-
income, lack transportation, and are disabled, as many such barriers can be removed using
telehealth.

2.1.2 Existing Digital Equity Plans

Creating a more digitally equitable Michigan is a significant priority for the state, and many
existing plans and efforts support this goal. Listed below are several existing state, local, and
regional plans and efforts that have been identified as critical components in supporting and
enabling state objectives related to digital equity and inclusion. Though the list is not exhaustive,
it highlights much of the state’s plans for education, economic development, healthcare,
transportation, workforce development, and equity which are inextricably linked to universal
availability and adoption of broadband service.
2021 Michigan Broadband Roadmap
To bridge the digital divide and improve digital equity and inclusion, MIHI has committed to
implement strategies to ensure that every Michigander, business, institution, and community
can meaningfully adopt high-speed internet service. In support of this mission, MIHI developed
a Michigan Broadband Roadmap, which established four core goals related to digital equity and
inclusion as mentioned below:
1. Ensure high-speed internet is available to every household, business, anchor institution,
and community in the state
2. Create a more digitally equitable Michigan
3. Improve the state’s broadband ecosystem
4. Enhance and coordinate Michigan’s broadband related investments with other
investments in social programs, education, and economic equity and development
Michigan Poverty Task Force Report
The Michigan Poverty Task Force issued its second report with recommendations aimed at
lifting Michiganders out of poverty, connecting families in every corner of Michigan with
economic opportunity, improving quality of life, improving outcomes, and creating real change.

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The following selection of recommendations from the report are relevant to supporting the work
of MIHI is undertaking in the successful implementation of the DEA and BEAD programs:
1. Increase investments in a universal benefit application so Michigan residents can apply
for resources in one place, which can promote digital equity by enhancing resident’s
access to digital resources and services.
2. Establish a highly visible education and awareness effort to boost participation in and
access to a formal network of Community-Based Education and Training Information
Portals, which can establish an accessible resource for residents to access education,
training, career resources, and other digital resources.
3. Develop a coordinated strategy to help communities address the digital divide, including
identifying best practices and effective measures to provide digital resources, access to
training and education, and other tools necessary to bridge the digital divide and promote
digital equity.
The report includes other recommendations that are indirectly related to the success of the DEA
and BEAD programs, and could be implemented more effectively by ensuring every home,
business, and institution in the state has access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Five-Year Strategic Plan
The MEDC is Michigan’s economic development lead with a mission to achieve long-term
economic prosperity for Michiganders by investing in communities, enabling the growth of good
paying jobs, and promoting Michigan’s strong image worldwide. The strategic focus areas rely
heavily on achieving universal broadband availability and improved digital equity by adopting
the following activities:
1. Attract, keep, and grow businesses in industries that support maximum growth in jobs,
wages and investments.
2. Cultivate the skills and talent needed for in-demand and high-growth occupations
statewide.
3. Collaborate with local communities and partners to create places in which people and
talent want to live, work, visit and play.
4. Support entrepreneurial growth to enable commercialization and new high-tech business
creation.
5. Promote Michigan’s image as a world-class business location and travel destination.
6. Help existing small and microbusinesses grow and thrive and improve economic
prosperity for all through small business ownership.

Michigan’s Statewide Housing Plan

The Statewide Housing Plan of Michigan, the first of its kind for the state, focuses on creating
housing stability for all residents. The plan includes five statewide housing targets, eight priority
areas, 37 goals, and 134 suggested strategies to address complex and intersecting challenges
related to achieving housing stability. Feedback from thousands of residents, hundreds of
organizational partners, public surveys, focus groups, meetings, and interviews informed the
five-year plan. Broadband Infrastructure is a key priority with the goal of increasing affordable

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high-speed internet access. One strategy is to coordinate with MIHI and others to improve
accessibility and affordability of high-speed internet. The plan also includes a strategy to offer
extra points when awarding contracts for projects that provide high-speed internet access,
particularly in rural and low-connectivity areas.
Education Equity in Michigan Plan
Created by the Michigan Civil Rights Commission in September 2022, the Education Equity in
Michigan Plan recommends that the Michigan Department of Civil Rights expand the existing
Council for Government and Education on Equity and Inclusion to include representatives of
the Michigan Department of Education and establish the Council as the entity responsible for
implementing and overseeing the following recommendations for action:
1. Develop a Statewide Educational Equity Plan to enhance policies, accountability, and
opportunities for all, using a holistic approach to inform the Michigan Department of
Civil Rights, the State Department of Education, and schools statewide
2. Encourage schools across the state to create local school equity plans and contribute
information and resources to encourage and support equitable practices and
opportunities for schools
3. Increase internet access for students and families and develop an easily accessible
electronic outreach and inclusion model that is available to everyone involved in the
education process
Given the necessity of high-speed internet connectivity and digital inclusion in the P-20
environment, this plan supports the vision and mission of MIHI for the State Digital Equity Plan
to create a more digitally equitable state by ensuring equity of access across several aspects of
the education ecosystem.
Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan
The Top 10 Strategic Education Plan has a vision that states; “every learner in Michigan’s public
schools will have an inspiring, engaging, and caring learning environment that fosters creative
and critical thinkers who believe in their ability to positively influence Michigan and the world
beyond.”
One of the key guiding principles of the plan states that students should be provided every
opportunity to achieve the broadest range of life dreams, and a selection of key goals seek to; 1)
expand early childhood learning opportunities; 2) improve the health, safety, and wellness of all
learners; 3) expand secondary learning opportunities for all students; and 4) increase the
percentage of adults with a postsecondary credential. While high-speed internet access isn’t
explicitly called out in the plan, equitable and affordable access and use are inherent in
supporting Michigan’s achievement of the goals outlined in the plan.
Health Information Technology Roadmap
This roadmap is maintained and implemented by the Policy and Planning, Strategic
Engagement, and Alignment section of the Michigan Department of Health and Human
Services. The Health Information Technology Roadmap identifies several relevant goals,
objectives, and strategies that impact and are impacted by the state digital equity programs:
1. Address Michigan's Digital Divide by ensuring that all communities have equal access to
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2. Improve Onboarding and Technical Assistance by providing the necessary training and
support to individuals and communities on how to effectively use digital health tools
While the deployment of universal high-speed internet service and addressing digital equity
contribute to each of these objectives, the objective from the Roadmap to, “Address Michigan’s
Digital Divide,” directly aligns with the vision and goals of Michigan’s Digital Equity Plan and
BEAD.
Michigan Roadmap to Healthy Communities
The Michigan Roadmap to Healthy Communities aims to address the Social Determinants of
Health (SDOH) through a collaborative, upstream approach to remove barriers to social and
economic opportunity, improve health outcomes, and advance equity. Phase I of the SDOH
Strategy promoted the alignment of efforts at the state, local, and community level and the
improvement of programs and policies through an in-depth internal review. It prioritized efforts
in three focus areas – health equity, housing stability, and food security. Phase II of the SDOH
Strategy builds on improvement and alignment efforts from Phase I, with a focused effort on
health equity through multisector collaboration and supporting holistic solutions.
A key component of the Roadmap is the development of a Community Information Exchange
(CIE). A CIE is an evolving set of best practices and technology guided by the goal of identifying
and addressing social needs. As identified in the plan, a successful CIE requires widespread
access to broadband and technology and a workforce trained in its use, agreed protocols around
data collection and coding, staff with dedicated time to facilitate the referral process, and a
robust network of referral partners. The success of this plan is heavily reliant on the universal
availability of high-speed internet service.
MI Healthy Climate Plan
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) published the MI
Health Climate Plan in April 2022. This plan lays out a broad vision for fulfilling the governor’s
fall 2020 commitment for Michigan to achieve 100% economy-wide carbon neutrality by
midcentury – the global science-based benchmark for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to
avoid the most devastating and costly impacts of climate change. The plan establishes ambitious
goals and strategies for achieving the plan’s vision.
Broadband internet access is crucial to achieve the goals laid out in the MI Healthy Climate Plan
as it enables people to access the latest climate science, connect human activities to climate
impacts, and make informed decisions. It is important to advocate for equitable access to this
information, so that all residents can make informed decisions regarding climate change.
Thirty-Year Integrated Infrastructure Plan
Developed by the Michigan Infrastructure Council, this plan includes the state’s dig-once
strategy to collocate facilities during construction within state and local rights-of-way. The
strategies in the Integrated Infrastructure Plan, including dig-once and ROW access, are also
identified in the Broadband and Digital Equity (BEAD) Five Year Action Plan as strategies to
help remove obstacles to broadband deployment and adoption in historically marginalized and
underserved communities. This plan enables the efficient deployment of broadband networks
and universal availability of broadband access, which are key factors to achieving digital equity.
This plan is currently under development.

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Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) Strategic Plan

The mission of the MPSC is to serve the public by ensuring safe, reliable, and accessible energy
and telecommunications services at reasonable rates. While the MPSC does not regulate
broadband, the commission intersects with the goals, vision, and objectives of the MIHI Office,
the BEAD plan, and this plan. By working towards the goal of expanding broadband access, the
MPSC is supporting the overall efforts of the MIHI Office to promote digital equity and
inclusion across the state. The following are selected key goals and strategies of the MPSC
Strategic Plan that support the efforts of the MIHI Office.
1. Empower customers to make informed utility choices
a) Publish accurate information on energy and telecommunications programs
b) Promote Connect Michigan broadband expansion
c) Collaborate with other state departments and stakeholders
d) Develop energy and technology pilots
2. Assure safe, secure, and reliable utility services and infrastructure
a) Issue a Telecommunications Assessment
b) Define roles for telecommunications outage monitoring
c) Support the transition to IP-911
3. Assure accessible and affordable utility services through regulatory oversight
a) Administer and promote customer programs
4. Cultivate open and diverse communication and education
a) Establish and encourage virtual stakeholder participation in workgroups and
proceedings
b) Engage partners on informational webinars/forums
c) Evaluate communication and outreach programs and efforts
Michigan Future Mobility Plan
The Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification oversees the Michigan Future
Mobility Plan. This plan identifies several objectives to position the state as a leader in next-
generation mobility. A few of the objectives are impacted by digital equity programs, including
deploying EV chargers, ensuring Mobility as a Service (MaaS), and reducing congestion and
traffic crashes.
Mobility and electrification are heavily reliant on the availability of wired and wireless
connections to provide real-time data, enable transactions, and monitor the electrical grid and
associated systems. Universal connectivity and adoption are important for the operations of EV
chargers and transit access. Having large green sites that are attractive for automotive
investments in the future will mean looking outside of traditional urban areas to parts of the
state that aren't connected today. The operations of intelligent transportation systems and
connected/automated vehicle tech rely on the reliable availability of the Internet of Things (IoT)
and edge computing across cellular-vehicle-to-vehicle/everything (CV2V / CV2X) systems.
Michigan’s digital equity programs directly support the success of the Michigan Future Mobility
Plan.

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Michigan Mobility 2045 Plan

Michigan’s State Long-Range Transportation Plan (MM2045) is an essential element of
Michigan’s transportation planning and program development process. The public- and
stakeholder-driven plan provides a foundation for developing Michigan’s transportation
programs, including MDOT’s Five-Year Transportation Program (5YTP) and the statewide, rural
and metropolitan transportation improvement programs, and presents the social and economic
cases for transportation investment in Michigan.
The universal availability of high-speed internet is recognized as a key requirement for the
successful implementation of the MM2045 Plan. Additionally, the plan contains the following
strategies that are relevant to the digital equity programs and work of the MIHI Office:
1. Identify opportunities to expand fiberoptic, broadband, and 5G connections through
coordination or partnerships.
2. Leverage technology to improve passenger transportation availability and services.
3. Invest in data, data collection, analytics, and information systems to advance data
informed decisions.
4. Extend opportunities to share data and information for improved efficiency,
accountability, and transparency across all of Michigan’s transportation partners.
5. Implement and expand a real-time Transportation Infrastructure Data Exchange (TIDE)
system to function as a centralized platform to support continuous exchange of
transportation data among MDOT and other stakeholders.
Michigan Workforce Development Plan
The Michigan Workforce Development Plan is maintained and implemented by the
Employment and Training Division of LEO, the same agency the MIHI Office is part of. The plan
identifies a projected worker shortage in twelve NTIA identified occupation groups. The most
significant occupation groups impacted by projected shortfall are “laborers and material
movers,” “trenchers,” and “inspectors” which are facing a 11.9%, 10.4%, and 9.8% shortfall
respectively. The Michigan Workforce Development Plan outlines several steps to address the
projected shortage that could impact the expansion and access to digital resources statewide
related to digital equity:
1. Engagement of underrepresented communities, unions, worker organizations.
2. Leveraging and partnering with subgrantees, contractors, subcontractors, educational
institutions, supportive service providers, and workforce/labor training providers
MIHI is actively partnering with the workforce development division of LEO to creatively solve
these shortfall projections. Upcoming workforce strategies highlight the importance of diversity,
equity, and inclusion to expand the labor pool to those not historically represented in the
construction industry.
Michigan Sixty by 30 Strategic Plan
The Michigan Sixty by 30 Initiative aims to increase postsecondary educational attainment to
60% by 2030. The Sixty by 30 program is housed within the LEO, the same agency the MIHI
Office is part of. The Sixty by 30 Strategic Plan outlines several focus areas that are impacted by
the work of the MIHI Office including, boosting youth college going rates, creating pathways for

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immigrants and international students, and addressing barriers to success, especially for
students living below the ALICE threshold.
Expanding access to high-speed internet and promoting digital equity contribute to the
objectives of the Sixty by 30 initiative, which prioritizes student and career success.
Existing County Plans
Connected Nation's "Connected Community" program has partnered with 10 counties across the
state of Michigan to conduct an assessment regarding the current status of broadband and to
establish a broadband planning process. Through surveys of local residents, businesses, and
organizations, the program aims to understand the existing resources and capabilities in place to
support the access, adoption, and use of broadband technology in homes and businesses. Data
obtained from this assessment is used to develop an appropriate action plan to improve the
broadband ecosystem effectively, addressing the current and future broadband needs of these
counties. The program's aim is to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and availability of
broadband technology in the counties, leading to social and economic development. Appendix
A-1 provides additional information on the Technology Action Plan development of the 10
county plans listed below.
Cheboygan County Eaton County
Huron County Lake County
Lapeer County Midland County
Newaygo County Oceana County
Sanilac County Tuscola County

Please note that these are not the entirety of county plans that MIHI is aware of, rather, these
are the 10 county plans which were developed in tandem with Connected Nation.
Washtenaw County Broadband Equity Subcommittee Final Report
Washtenaw County’s Broadband Equity Subcommittee final report highlights how lack of
broadband access is impacting residents across the county. The Committee suggests several
activities to achieve this goal, such as defining the need, supporting best and emerging practices,
seeking funding, changing or updating policies, and coordinating with local governments.
Digital Equity and Inclusion – City of Detroit
The Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion in Detroit offers solutions and resources to bridge the
digital divide in the city by providing affordable and quality high-speed internet, access to
devices, digital literacy training, technical support, and upgraded internet infrastructure city-
wide.
The Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion developed an interactive digital dashboard that
defines the needs of Detroit residents. The interactive dashboard provides transparency to the
residents of Detroit concerning the allocation of resources and services geared towards closing
the digital gap in the city. This data driven approach will allow for the creation of customized
digital equity plans for each district and neighborhood to meet the needs of the community.
Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG)
SEMCOG developed Broadband in Southeast Michigan, a roadmap that identifies key
challenges and opportunities, policy recommendations, and case studies for expanding

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broadband throughout the region. The goal of the roadmap is to promote accessibility of high-
speed broadband to homes and businesses across Michigan to enhance community and
economic development, improve quality of life, provide access to education and lifelong learning
opportunities, support remote work demand, and promote equitable access to health. The four
goals related to digital equity include:
1. Expand high-speed broadband availability throughout Southeast Michigan
2. Improve data on broadband availability and access to reflect current conditions with
accuracy
3. Ensure equitable access to broadband and support digital literacy efforts for students,
seniors, and households with limited access to resources
4. Coordinate broadband efforts at the State level to support broadband development for
community and economic development

2.1.2.1 Asset Gaps in Existing Digital Equity Plans

MIHI recognizes the need for additional local, regional, and county digital equity plans to ensure
equitable access to digital resources and opportunities throughout the state. There should be
additional focus on building partnerships and collaborations with various stakeholders to
implement digital inclusion activities at the local level effectively. These efforts will help drive
the development of more digital equity plans and address the current gaps in Michigan's digital
inclusion landscape.
The results of the Digital Inclusion Resource Map, in Appendix A-1, revealed asset gaps
primarily related to incarcerated individuals, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
Although the Digital Inclusion Resource Map is not a complete list of organizations supporting
Digital Inclusion throughout the state, out of the 208 organizations that completed the survey,
only four organizations covered incarcerated individuals, and five organizations covered
veterans and individuals with disabilities. The organizations supporting these individuals
mainly focused on providing services related to digital access.
During the partnership roundtable meetings which discussed obstacles and barriers of
broadband deployment and adoption, participants were asked to share their thoughts and ideas
regarding digital equity, focusing on device access, digital skills and proficiency, affordability,
relevance/awareness, and inclusivity. After analyzing the feedback gathered from these
discussions and responses, we identified several common themes related to asset gaps that
emerged across these discussions. The following is a summary of these themes, which can guide
us as we work towards addressing these issues and achieving greater digital equity and inclusion
in our communities.

• Rural communities are often left behind when it comes to access to high-speed internet and
other digital services due to the higher costs associated with providing these services in
remote areas. This lack of access can have a significant impact on economic development,
education, healthcare, and social connectivity in these rural communities.
• In addition to access issues, the cost of service is often higher in rural areas than in urban
areas. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have to invest more to build the necessary
infrastructure in remote areas, and due to smaller populations, they may not be able to
achieve the same economies of scale as they do in urban areas. This cost burden is usually

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passed on to the consumers, making the service more expensive for those who live in rural
areas.
• Many individuals do not have access to high-speed internet, which is necessary to access
telehealth services. This creates a significant gap in healthcare accessibility and highlights
the need for increased focus on expanding access to telehealth services for all individuals.
• Deploying broadband infrastructure is a complex and time-consuming process that requires
significant investment and coordination from stakeholders. Waiting for broadband
infrastructure to be deployed can result in significant opportunity costs, including lost
economic development, healthcare, and educational opportunities.
• Digital literacy and training is a crucial asset gap, especially notable for older generations.
Digital literacy training can include basic computer skills, internet browsing, digital data
entry, and file management. Offering digital literacy training in person may be essential to
serving aging individuals.
• Digital safety is another critical concern. With the risk of cyber-attacks and digital fraud, it is
essential to educate people on digital safety best practices. Older generations may be
particularly vulnerable to scams and fraud.
MIHI is committed to addressing the digital asset gaps that affect covered populations,
including veterans, incarcerated individuals, and those with disabilities, while also prioritizing
removing the obstacles and barriers related to digital equity. The asset gaps and themes
identified during the Digital Inclusion Resource Map and Partnership Roundtable discussions
provided key insights for addressing challenges related to broadband deployment and adoption,
access and affordability, digital literacy and training, digital safety, and more. By recognizing
these challenges and working together to develop comprehensive solutions, plans, and programs
we can achieve greater digital equity and inclusion in our communities and bridge the digital
divide.

2.1.3 Existing Digital Equity Programs

In this section, MIHI has identified various existing state and local digital equity programs, and
outlined how each initiative enables or supports Michigan's digital equity and inclusion goals.
Although this is not an all-encompassing list, it reflects MIHI's commitment to identify and
leverage existing programs and initiatives across state and local government as part of the
strategy to closing the digital divide. Understanding the strengths and potential gaps in service
of these various programs is crucial in advancing Michigan's broader digital inclusion goals and
ensuring a cohesive and coordinated approach to achieving digital equity across the state. By
identifying areas of convergence and potential collaboration across programs, Michigan can
leverage existing resources, expertise, and momentum, while avoiding duplication of efforts
especially with the non-deployment aspect of the BEAD program and maximizing the impact of
state investment in digital inclusion.
Affordable Connectivity Program Eligible Households
Eligible Michiganders may qualify for monthly assistance toward paying their monthly home
internet bill under the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Affordable
Connectivity Program is a $14.2 billion benefit program that helps ensure that households can
afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. The benefit provides a
discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75
per month for households on qualifying tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-
time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating

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providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. The
Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device
discount per household.
Eligibility for the ACP program is based on household income. ACP-eligible households include
families with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and those who qualify for
Lifeline, SNAP, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch, WIC and other government-funded
programs. Essentially, the covered population that this program is geared towards is the
households with lower incomes. An estimated 1,685,725 households in Michigan are eligible for
the ACP program. As of April 1, 2023, 604,108 households are enrolled in the program which
constitutes approximately 35.8% of the estimated eligible households.
MI Dept. of Education, E-Rate Support
E-rate is a federal program that provides reduced rates on internet access and internal
connections for schools and libraries. The discount rate, which ranges between 20% and90%, is
based on the number of school children in the area who are eligible for a free or reduced lunch,
and E-rate can save libraries money through lower fees for these vital services. The funding for
the E-rate program is determined based on the level of demand, up to an annual cap of $4.456
billion set by the Commission.
If a state provides eligible schools and libraries with funding for special construction charges for
high-speed broadband that meets the FCC’s long-term connectivity targets, the E-Rate program
will increase an applicant’s discount rate for these charges up to an additional 10% to match the
state funding on a one-to-one dollar basis. For tribal schools and libraries, the E-Rate program
will also match special construction funding provided by states, tribal governments, or other
federal agencies on a one-to-one basis, up to an additional 10% for the applicant’s discount rate.
Total E-Rate support with matching funds may not exceed 100 percent. Discounts for support
depend on the level of poverty and whether the school or library is located in an urban or rural
area.
Michigan Public Service Commission, Utility Assistance Programs
The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is the regulatory authority for all utility
providers in the State of Michigan. The MPSC maintains a database of utility assistance
programs to support consumers. The purpose of the assistance program is to establish and
administer programs statewide that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to
eligible low-income households. Self-sufficiency services include assisting participants with the
following: paying their utility bills on time, including broadband; budgeting for and contributing
to their ability to provide for energy expenses, which may include enrollment into an affordable
payment plan (APP); and utilizing energy services to optimize energy efficiency. Additionally,
the assistance program allows low-income residents who fall behind on their gas and electric
bills to stay safely in their homes and become energy self-sufficient through utility bill payment
assistance and an array of other support programs, including the Affordable Connectivity
Program (ACP), which offers monthly assistance towards broadband or internet bills.
Michigan Public Act 95 allows the MPSC to approve a low-income energy assistance “funding
factor” (a surcharge on utilities), not to exceed $50 million dollars, every year to fund the
program. In 2017, the MPSC established a monthly .93 cents per meter surcharge on all
participating electric utilities who have opted-in to fund the program.

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Connecting Michigan Communities Grant Program

The Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB) is providing a
grant opportunity to extend broadband service into unserved areas in Michigan. The grant funds
are available to middle mile and last mile projects that demonstrate collaboration to achieve
community investment and economic development goals of the area impacted.
CMIC was created in late 2018 as Michigan’s first broadband infrastructure grant program and
seeded with $20M in initial funds. An additional $14.3M was added to the program in mid-
2020. The program has issued three rounds of grants with the last occurring in 2022. The
program is currently housed at the MI Dept. of Technology, Management, and Budget, but
recent discussion may shift administration of the program to MIHI. No additional grant awards
are anticipated from the program. The intended outcome of the program is to connect more
than 17,000 locations to high-speed internet.
Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN)
Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program
ROBIN is a high-speed internet last mile and middle mile infrastructure competitive grant
program with $238M in project funds from the US Treasury as part of the Coronavirus Capital
Projects Fund. ROBIN provides funds to internet service providers and public-private
partnerships for the expansion of broadband infrastructure to unserved areas. Up to 35% of
ROBIN funds can be used for middle-mile projects that support deployment of broadband
service to unserved areas, while the remainder is dedicated for last-mile service projects. The
program is designed to connect locations currently without 100/20 Mbps service. Ultimately,
the goal is to connect 60,000 – 75,000 locations with high-speed internet service with this
grant.
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP)
The NTIA’s Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program is an initiative that provides grants to
support broadband deployment and adoption in tribal communities across the United States.
The program offers $1 billion in funding to tribal governments and tribal organizations to
expand access to high-speed internet and improve digital inclusion. The grants can be used for a
range of activities, such as building and upgrading broadband infrastructure, establishing public
computer centers, and providing digital skills training. These grants will expand high-speed
Internet network deployment and digital skills training to improve access to education, jobs, and
healthcare on Tribal lands.
Two tribes in Michigan received grants from the TBCP. The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the
Potawatomi project was awarded about $1.2M and proposes to upgrade existing local fiber optic
infrastructure that currently serves Tribal government offices, Tribal businesses, and
community anchor institutions in addition to 35 Tribal households. These upgrades will assist
Tribal members in gaining better access to telehealth, distance learning, and economic and
workforce development, in addition to digital inclusion efforts. In addition, Match-E-Be-Nash-
She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake) was awarded around $500k, which will
connect 17 households in the Gun Lake tribe that lacked access to broadband to qualifying
broadband service.
2.1.3.1 Asset Gaps in Existing Digital Equity Programs
Refer to Asset Gaps in Existing Digital Equity Plans.

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2.1.4 Broadband Adoption

As of 2023, more than 492,000 households are unserved (locations without 25/3 Mbps service
available) or underserved (locations without 100/20 Mbps service available)18 by high-speed
internet infrastructure. Another 730,000 households face barriers related to affordability,
adoption, device access, digital literacy, or a combination thereof. Taken together, this means
that approximately 30% of Michigan households struggle with some form of the digital divide19
MIHI has actively been working with internal and external agencies to ensure that Michiganders
are aware of the programs and resources that can subsidize internet service plans and internet-
enabled devices.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is administered by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) and provides financial assistance ($30 per month) and a one-time discount
to purchase an internet enabled device for eligible households and households on qualifying
lands (FCC.gov). The Affordable Connectivity Program is open to households with an income of
200% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. It is also available to households that have a
member who accesses any of the following programs: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and
Children (WIC), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance
(FPHA), Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch
Program or School Breakfast Program, Federal Pell Grant (received in current award year).
Tribal members involved in specific additional programs are also eligible. Tribal members who
live on federally recognized tribal lands are eligible for a more significant potential benefit (up to
$75 per month). ACP also provides a one-time subsidy for the purchase of an internet-enabled
device.
MIHI will support the ACP enrollment process for Michiganders, by partnering with
EducationSuperHighway to coordinate a statewide ACP awareness campaign.
EducationSuperHighway is a national nonprofit that has worked in the broadband space for
decades and has recently shifted their focus to on the digital divide. Another program that
assists in the promotion of ACP is Lifeline. Through this service, Michigan senior citizens have
access to a phone landline and are also eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program.
MIHI currently leverages a digital navigator program presently funded with Community
Development Block Grant dollars from the CARES Act and administered in partnership with the
MEDC. The program is hosted in three of the ten economic prosperity regions. The primary goal
of this program is to increase awareness of broadband opportunities and events, to provide
technical assistance for broadband related skills, and to identify resources to subsidize internet
service plans. MIHI will scale the Digital Navigator program to a statewide offering covering
each of the ten Prosperity Regions with a focus on underrepresented and underserved
communities.
MIHI has partnered with the statewide library network and the Michigan Department of
Education to leverage resources and expand digital learning opportunities for communities. For
decades, Michigan’s statewide libraries have provided a physical space and digital learning
opportunities for community members. More recently, many libraries have also been a provider

18 Data for number of unserved and underserved locations comes from the June 15th, 2023 data published by the Federal
Communications Commission that represents availability reported by internet service providers as of December 31, 2022.
19 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Roadmap (2021), Michigan High-Speed Internet Office

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of loaner internet enable devices and mobile hotspots. The MDE has adopted the International
Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards as digital literacy competencies that are
implemented at various grade levels for students in kindergarten through secondary schools.
MIHI’s works to collaborate and coordinate with local nonprofit organizations that are
operating in the device ecosystem, workforce and digital skill development space. One such
collaboration with Human-I-T. Detroit’s Human-I-T creates equitable access to technology in
several ways. The most notable strategies are providing low-cost devices, internet access, digital
skills training, and tech support. Human-I-T also works with companies to recycle internet-
enabled devices. A multi-tiered approach will be considered to scale the work of Human-I-T to
more Detroiters and Michiganders.
During the MI Connected Future Tour, MIHI learned that communities want to get involved
and develop relationships that will aid in them to compete in the BEAD subgrantee process. The
current landscape of broadband adoption allows MIHI to support digital inclusion virtually by
way of a Digital Inclusion Playbook20, which is a five-step framework to address Digital Equity in
communities. The Playbook guides communities on how to identify key stakeholders, create the
coalition, collect data, and establish goals. These are all critical components to creating a more
digitally inclusive community.
Additionally, MIHI has created an asset inventory that allows organizations/companies to share
their information including the digital services it provides. Once complete, the organization can
be located by anyone inquiring about their services in an online map.

2.1.5 Broadband Affordability

MIHI provides resources and outreach toolkits that are available electronically via the Labor and
Economic Opportunity website. MIHI also references the Affordable Connectivity Program
(ACP). Enrollments for ACP in the state of Michigan are among the highest nationally.
According to EducationSuperHighway, 1,690,382 Michigan households are eligible for the ACP,
yet only 636,672,007 (38% of those eligible) have enrolled. Without high- speed internet access
at home, Michigan households can’t work remotely, can’t access healthcare, job training, the
social safety net, or critical government services, and their children can’t complete schoolwork
outside the classroom. The MIHI website links several internet service providers directly for
Michiganders to enroll in low-cost opportunities. MIHI intends to sustain a low-cost internet
service plan model that is required by the BEAD program.
In addition to that household subsidy program, several organizations and municipalities were
awarded federal grants towards ACP promotion through the Affordable Connectivity Outreach
Grant Program. The grantees were: United Way of Southeastern Michigan, Wayne County, City
of Flint and Literacy Center of West Michigan. Each of the awardees will serve as trusted
community institutions that will implement strategies to reach unserved and underserved
households.
The State of Michigan has provided additional support to low-income households. The Michigan
Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) administers statewide programs that provide energy
assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible households. MEAP acknowledges that
concerns about gas, electric, telecommunications and broadband services affects Michiganders.
According to the MEAP website, self-sufficiency services include assisting eligible households

20 LEO - Michigan Digital Inclusion Resources

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with paying energy bills on time, budgeting for and contributing to their ability to provide for
energy expenses, assistance in enrollment into an affordable payment plan, and utilizing energy
services to optimize on energy efficiency. MEAP carefully outlines a step-by-step process for
participants to employ and to be proactive. Additionally, MEAP outlines an outreach toolkit,
links to resources, including MiBridges, the Michigan Department of Health and Human
Services led program. Using MEAP, Michiganders can also discover energy assistance resources
available to them in their area.

2.2 Needs Assessment

MIHI instituted a comprehensive community engagement strategy wherein community
members and partnership roundtable attendees shared their biggest broadband barriers via
surveys. MIHI conducted 31 community meetings, held in-person, throughout each of the 10
prosperity regions in Michigan and the data collected during these meetings is the source of the
information below. Cities where each community meeting was held were targeted based on their
rurality, status of internet availability, and historically underrepresented populations.
Section 3.2.1. below summarizes the results of those surveys by region and covered population
including:

• Income below 150% of the poverty line

• Aging Individuals
• Veteran Status
• Disabled Individuals
• English Language Learners
• Racial-Ethnic Minorities
• Rural Residents

2.2.1 Covered Population Needs Assessment

The MIHI Office has chosen to examine its needs and gaps regionally. LEO defines ten, multi-
county economic prosperity regions as a basis for analysis and implementation across programs.
The map below provides the regional boundaries.

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The profiles begin with that of Michigan as a whole, followed by a similar profile for each of the
ten regions. The purpose of these profiles is to establish a baseline for understanding the unique
digital equity and connectivity needs of the state and each region. Each profile contains a digital
equity analysis that identifies the covered populations as defined by the Digital Equity Act, as
well as the current state and needs for broadband availability and the priorities defined by each
region during MIHI’s MICF listening tour. The following describes each of the data points found
in the profiles. If a metric is highlighted in a regional profile, the rate of that metric in the region
is higher/lower than the state average, which may indicate a need for additional focus on this
covered population or element of digital equity.
Digital Equity Profile
The Digital Equity Profile identifies and enumerates the various Digital Equity Act covered
populations within each region. These metrics are critical for identifying the unique digital
equity needs throughout the state that can drive future digital inclusion program
implementation.
Population: The total population of the area from the American Community Survey 2021 5-
Year Estimates.
Rural: The total number and percentage of the population residing in rural areas of the
region as defined by the USDA 2013 Rural-Urban Continuum Code.
Age 60+: The total number and percentage of the population aged 60 years or more in the
region from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year Estimates.

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Below Poverty: The total number and percentage of the population living below the federal
poverty guideline in the region from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year
Estimates.
ALICE Population: The total number and percentage of the population defined as Asset
Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) in the region as defined by the United
Way. Data is from 2021.
Non-White: The total number and percentage of the population identifying as a race other
than white, not including those of Hispanic descent, in the region from the American
Community Survey 2021 5-Year Estimates.
Hispanic: The total number and percentage of the population identifying as being of
Hispanic descent in the region from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year
Estimates.
Foreign-Born: The total number and percentage of the population in each region born
outside of the United States from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year Estimates.
Limited English-Speaking: The total number and percentage of the population in each
region that identify as being limited English speakers. This data was derived by identifying
the number of households in each region identifying as such and multiplying it by the
average household size for each region to determine the estimated population that are
limited English speakers. Data is from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year
Estimates.
Veterans: The total number and percentage of the population in the region that indicate past
military service from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year Estimates..
Disabled: The total number and percentage of the population in the region that indicate that
they have mental or physical disability from the American Community Survey 2021 5-Year
Estimates.
Living in Correctional Facility: The total number and percentage of the population in the
region that is living in a correctional facility. This data comes from the 2020 Decennial
Census. The data does not differentiate between those in federal or state correctional
facilities.
Broadband Availability
This section identifies the total number of residential and business Broadband Serviceable
Locations (BSL) identified on the BSL Fabric developed and maintained by the Federal
Communications Commission. The number and percentage of unserved (locations without 25/3
Mbps service available) and underserved (locations without 100/20 Mbps service available)
BSLs are included for each region. This data comes from the June 15th, 2023 data published by
the FCC that represents availability reported by internet service providers as of December 31,
2022. These metrics are critical for understanding the service availability needs and gaps within
each region.
Digital Equity Priorities

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This data is derived from the MICF statewide community listening tour MIHI conducted in early
2023. Community meetings were held in each region and participants were asked to prioritize
the importance of the four primary barriers to digital equity; 1) Availability; 2) Affordability; 3)
Digital Literacy/Skills; and 4) Devices. Participants were asked to rank these topics in order of
importance through a dot-sticker exercise. Votes were weighted according to their importance
and the results averaged to determine the overall importance of each topic on a scale of one to
four with four being the most important and one being the least important. This data helps
identify the most critical issues for those living in each region of the state.

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2.2.2 Broadband Adoption

The MIHI Office recognizes that the following challenges exist for Michiganders: availability of
affordable high-speed internet, accessible internet enabled devices and digital skills. Addressing
these barriers across all sectors is essential. The Needs Assessment/MI Connected Future
Listening Tour of 31 cities highlighted some critical data points regarding the barriers. The 778
surveys collected during the Listening Tour, produced the following:

• 553 of the attendees ranked Availability as the most challenging barrier. Availability was
defined as: having internet service providers and speeds that meet the needs of the
household
• Affordability was identified by 172 of the participants as the highest priority challenge.
Affordability was defined as: internet service plans in the area meet the household needs of
participants and fit within the household monthly budget
• 25 participants ranked having applicable digital skills (Tech Savvy) needed to use internet
enabled devices as the highest priority
• Having access to internet enabled devices was ranked a high priority for 8 participants
With the goal of 95% adoption of broadband, MIHI intends to take careful consideration of
covered populations, which may overlap with unserved and underserved communities. MIHI
intends to prioritize the barriers above based upon the responses of Michiganders to address
adoption. Additionally, MIHI recognizes that using digital skills requires the availability of
internet service, having affordable options and having access to internet enabled devices. A
wholistic approach to meeting the needs of covered populations is necessary. Working with
trusted institutions or CAIs requires a focus on statewide, regional and local partners that are
already working to improve adoption in ways previously discussed. Digital programs, digital
skills-based nonprofits and library systems currently exist. By providing additional data and
resources, MIHI can leverage these partnerships and scale the availability of services to covered
populations. MIHI has also developed partnerships with agencies focused on aging populations,
individuals with disabilities, veterans, members of racial minority groups and individuals in
rural areas. Improving digital literacy and increasing broadband subscribers has also been a
focus.

2.2.3 Broadband Affordability

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The ACP is a program that allows for a thirty dollar-a-month subsidy for eligible households
toward internet bills, is now utilized in 40.6% of all eligible households in Michigan9. To
increase the remaining 59.4% of eligible households who are not yet enrolled, the State of
Michigan partnered with EducationSuperHighway to coordinate an ACP seminar on June 26,
2023. The ACP faces uncertainty of continued funding with some projections showing the funds
running out by early 2024. This would leave the 278,000 Michigan households that currently

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receive funds and more who will apply for funding with an additional monthly cost21. The ACP
needs to be continued to help provide internet service
Increased Technical Assistance
The MIHI office has been offering technical assistance and answering queries for Michiganders
who send in questions related to the finding affordable service and signing up for the ACP.
Currently, MIHI works with three Digital Navigators who are located within 3 different regions
of Michigan. The state will need more Digital Navigators who can inform people about what is
available as well as ask questions about what users can afford to pay for certain services. Digital
Navigators will be familiar with regional ISPs, costs, and how to sign up for programs like the
ACP.
Creating Different Broadband Service Plans
Michiganders attending MI Connected Future events spoke about receiving poor service quality
at costs ranging from seventy dollars to over one hundred dollars a month. The cost for internet
is too high. The NTIA’s Internet Use survey further validates this with the fact that 18.7% of
people who did not have internet pointed to the cost22. Creating more affordable plans and
having a middle-class affordability plan will help to ensure that the needs are met for all
Michiganders.
Lack of Standardization - Broadband Consumer Labels
While touring the state, many Michiganders expressed frustration about costs or knowledge of
increased fees. For example, a modem/router combo from many ISPs will cost an additional ten
dollars a month. The explanation for such information is not always simple and many internet
users do not realize that purchasing their own modem and router can save money in the long
term. Broadband labels not only provide information on prices, service speeds, and the type of
service, but also allow consumers to compare one internet service plan with another with ease23.

21 https://acpdashboard.com/
22 Ibid.
23 https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandlabels

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3 Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

3.1 Coordination and Outreach Strategy
Beginning in Fall 2022, MIHI developed the MI Connected Future (MICF) strategy designed to
fulfill the needs of both the BEAD and DEA programs. MICF includes an innovative strategy for
stakeholder and community engagement. Comprised of in-person regional meetings and
partnership roundtables comprised of industry leaders and organizations representing covered
populations, MICF actively supports robust community outreach and input while providing an
opportunity for industry to provide additional barriers in the broadband space in a
comprehensive and equitable manner.
There is particular care and intention in creating an avenue for engagement for historically
marginalized populations including not only low-income, ageing individuals, and those residing
in rural areas, but also refugees, members of racial or ethnic minority groups, veterans,
individuals with disabilities, individuals with language barriers, and formally incarcerated
individuals.
There are four primary components that are key to the execution of MICF:
1. Community Meetings;
2. Partnership Roundtables; and
3. Data
4. Public Comment
Community Meetings
Each region and community in the state is unique and approaching the needs of each in the way
that serves them best promotes equity. MICF supports equitable engagement by respecting the
unique needs of each community. This manifests as relationship building with community
leaders prior to hosting community meetings in their towns. Buy-in is crucial for the success of
MICF, and ultimately for the success of BEAD and DEA programs. In the conversations leading
up to a formal community meeting, MIHI acted within its capacity to understand the issues that
are important to the community, including critical context regarding past and current
broadband and digital equity and inclusion activities.
MIHI divided the community meeting portion of MICF into two phases: initial data collection
and public comment/feedback. Phase one consisted of 31 MICF stops throughout all 10
economic Prosperity Regions in Michigan. Phase two consisted of an additional 10 stops to
collect public comment and feedback on the draft BEAD Five-Year Action Plan and the Digital
Equity Plan.
Initial Data Collection
The initial data collection phase of MICF aimed to gather feedback from Michiganders regarding
their biggest broadband barriers.
- 778 surveys collected
- 854 Michiganders attended
- 31 MIHI hosted meetings Dot Activity
- Availability: 553 attendees ranked this as the most challenging barrier

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- Affordability: 172 attendees ranked this as the most challenging barrier

- Tech Savvy: 25 attendees ranked this as the most challenging barrier
- Devices: 8 attendees ranked this as their most challenging barrier
- Other: 32 attendees ranked other as their most challenging barrier. These
concerns ranged from internet reliability to lack of economic competition for ISPs
Survey Results (4-Point Scale)
- Availability was ranked 3.49 statewide for its level of importance
- Affordability was ranked 2.92 statewide for its level of importance
- Devices was ranked 1.6 statewide for its level of importance
- Tech Savvy was ranked 1.94 statewide for its level of importance

Partnership Roundtables
Concurrently, MIHI convened a series of roundtable discussions comprised of stakeholders
from organizations across the state who are necessary in guiding the development of the BEAD
and SDEPG/SDECG programs. These panels included representatives from community anchor
institutions, tribal nations, organizations representing covered populations, internet service
providers, and many others. The intent for the cross-sectorial panel format is to share
information and resources, raise awareness for potential issues concerning infrastructure
deployment and digital inclusion, and provide MIHI with policy and operational guidance for
program implementation. These panels met regularly throughout the entire stakeholder
engagement and plan development phases of MICF planning process.
Data
Quality data collection is crucial for determining the correct baseline for broadband service in
Michigan. Furthermore, quality data supports an equitable deployment strategy in both the
infrastructure and digital equity programs. Questions and input asked of community members
will be consistent throughout the MICF Plan state-wide tour; however, the context in which the
questions will be delivered will be unique to the group with whom MIHI is engaging. Following
the state-wide tour, the MIHI team has analyzed feedback and engage with other professional
organizations for quality analysis. Care was taken to engage with academics who work in the
digital equity field and with existing digital equity indices to highlight areas of need.
After gathering community feedback, engaging with partnership roundtables, and analyzing the
gathered data, the final phase of the MICF planning process is to return to communities to share
results and the draft MICF plan. MIHI aims to have a draft MICF Plan completed no less than
three months prior to its submission deadline to the NTIA in July of 2023. In the three- month
window prior to submission, MIHI will again visit communities across the state to solicit
feedback on the proposed MICF Plan.
Public Comment
Responsive public comments from Michiganders of all walks of life are imperative to
strengthening the Digital Equity Plan. All comments will allow MIHI to consider input and
further improve the plan. To best facilitate the public comment period MIHI contacted all
individuals who attended previous sessions and those who receive MIHI newsletter recipients,
partnered with local and regional organizations, used State of Michigan communications, and
leveraged relationships to share the opportunity to make public comments.

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MIHI knows that not everyone is online and wants to provide ample opportunities for the public
to comment. Three avenues to submit public comments are available.
1. Online on the MIHI website
2. In-person at a MI Connected Future event
3. In-person at a local library after reading a physical copy of the Digital Equity Plan
Option One: Submitting a comment online allows you to submit a comment when it is most
convenient for you. Upon visiting the public comment page, you download the Digital Equity
Plan, research it, and then submit a public comment.
Option Two: Ten in-person events will take place over the course of five weeks with one event in
each Prosperity Region of Michigan. These events will share information about gathered data
from the former tour stops, allow for questions and feedback, and give all participants the
opportunity to submit public comments in either a digital or physical format.
Option Three: Local libraries in Michigan will have physical copies of the Digital Equity Plan on
hand for Michiganders to come in and read. After reading the plan, interested individuals will be
able to submit a public comment using a computer at the library connected to the internet or
write down feedback in a tangible format that will be scanned and sent to MIHI as a form of
public comment.
Public Comment Outcomes
[This section will include a report on the number of comments received, some background
analytics, and a summary of revisions made to the plan. A full report with public comment
tracking will be placed in the Appendix.]

4 Implementation

4.1 Implementation Strategy & Key Activities

MIHI takes every effort to utilize holistic strategies to close the digital divide and remove
barriers in a non-traditional manner. The digital divide looks different to everyone depending
on their community, their income, their race, or their education. A person may have easy access
to the internet, but not have the digital skills to advance in their career. Another may not have
the money to utilize public transportation to get to a library to complete their college courses.
Closing the digital divide is not a “one-size-fits-all” solution and Michigan will not approach it as
one. Additionally, MIHI is aware of several local and regional partners that are currently
offering digital opportunities to communities. With this in mind, MIHI intends to support and
convene efforts on the local and regional level to scale programs statewide. The current digital
skills programming offered may be isolated to individual municipalities or to smaller
populations. Ideally, MIHI’s efforts will be coordinated in the most efficient way.
The main vehicle for closing the digital divide in Michigan will be through the implementation of
a robust community Digital Navigator program. Navigators will serve communities they live in,
therefore understand the needs of the digital divide in their community. Information from state
agencies pertaining to online accessibility of services, new opportunities for workforce or
education, and affordable internet service plans and devices will be disseminated to
communities through these digital navigators. MIHI recognizes that community members know
their communities best.

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Digital Navigator System

During MIHI’s MICF Listening Sessions, Michiganders expressed challenges with accessing
and/or utilizing high-speed internet and having the needed skills to use internet enabled
devices. Each community is different and has key insights on how to solve challenges with
broadband that suit their needs. MIHI staff also heard that many communities want to get
involved in the digital inclusion space but are unsure of where to find appropriately scaled
resources, funding for positions, and the individuals with the skills to teach others about the
resources available to them.
To meet the needs of communities, and to close the digital divide, MIHI will implement a
grassroots Digital Navigator program to serve as the vehicle for community-based solutions
development. MIHI will implement the Digital Navigator program using the “snowflake model”
of community organizing (as
seen in the image below). This
model allows communities to be
engaged in the work to close the
digital divide in an equitable
manner, and one in which suits
their community best, but
continues to align with the
coordinated strategy led by
MIHI. By utilizing partnerships
with local, trusted community
institutions, MIHI, as the lead,
will serve as the hub and the
foundation of the vehicle
providing support to the
navigators and coordinating
initiatives from within LEO and
in partnership with other state
agencies. The statewide Digital
Navigator Program will promote
equitable access to high-speed
internet and digital skills
training opportunities to
Michiganders in urban,
Figure 1: Snowflake model for community organizing
suburban, and rural areas. The
program will target
underrepresented, under-invested and underserved communities. The Digital Navigators will
aim to increase adoption of broadband and the skills needed to use devices, based on the needs
in the community, including physical and virtual access to identified need-based programs. In
collaboration with community leaders, local businesses high quality programming will center
around barrier removal for access to high-speed internet, internet enabled devices, applicable
digital learning, and practical skill development. With the need for digital skills and internet use
growing, Michiganders will have the training required to compete in an evolving digital society.
The digital divide is influenced by many factors beyond lack of access to a device or a broadband
connection and for many Michiganders, barriers such as childcare or transportation impact

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their ability to get online. The Digital navigator system will not only fund the positions for
Community Digital Navigators and Regional Digital Coordinators but will support barrier
removal activities such as providing bus passes or gas cards for individuals with transportation
barriers, assistance devices for those with disabilities, or translation software for non-English
speakers. The barriers for the individual will be unique, and as such, the removal of those
barriers will be viewed by MIHI as a “strategic investment in human and community capacity.”24
To scale the program throughout the state, Digital Navigators will be placed in each of the ten
Prosperity Regions and in larger municipalities, e.g., Detroit and Grand Rapids. Digital
Navigators facilitate need-based partnerships, programs, and digital skill development. The
evolving workforce, telehealth platforms, virtual learning, and entertainment needs of covered
populations in Michigan. By focusing the Digital Navigator Program on the communities that
have the most need, the digital divide can be positively impacted. MIHI will provide oversight as
it relates to assigning measurable deliverables and reporting requirements for the Digital
Navigators.
Digital Navigators will be trained on the initiatives of the state and how to holistically
implement the activities for community by the Digital Inclusion Program Manager. Initial
reviews of the progress for the Digital Navigators will occur in the first 90 days of their
placement and will occur every six months for the term of their placement. Navigators will be
required to provide monthly reports on the status of progress for implementation including
metrics aligned with KPIs.
To sustain the Digital Navigator system, MIHI will build relationships with philanthropic
organizations and Community Reinvestment Act participating banking instutions. The ability to
create an endowment fund with DEA funding is something MIHI is also strongly advocating for
to ensure long-term sustainability of not only the Digital Navigator program, but other digital
equity activities in the state.
It is anticipated this this plan will be reviewed annually to assess activities performed against
those planned and make updates or adjustments to the plan, as required. The KPIs will be
evaluated annually, and where possible, quarterly, and will consist of data collected from the
Digital Navigators as well as reporting from the Digital Equity Director regarding the progress of
interagency coordination and implementation efforts. Progress on all KPI’s, and other relevant
state initiatives supporting closing the digital divide will be published in an annual report by
MIHI to the residents of Michigan.
Goals and Planned Activities
Priorities, KPI, Planned Activities, Roles and Responsibilities Related to
Affordability
Priorities: • Empower communities through engagement and involvement
• Leverage community inputs to drive program planning and
implementation.
• Develop an approach for communities to define infrastructure
and equity programs roll out
• Include evidence of community support as part of subprogram
requirements and partnerships for infrastructure deployment

24 State Digital Equity Planning Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity, § (C)(1)(b)

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• Community involvement to ensure alignment between local plans

and state plans
KPI: An affordability score that combines:
1. Internet to Income ratio as part of the Purdue University Digital
Divide Index
2. FCC’s Benchmark Rate for 100/20 mbps unlimited internet
service and what each covered population in each region pay for
internet service
3. The percentage of households (per covered population, per
region) who lost their internet connection temporarily due to
inability or difficulty paying

Activities: • Digital Navigators placed in statewide libraries and other CAIs to

support local, low-cost broadband opportunities
• Utilize Intake Form for each participant to provide insight on
related points for the participants’ Affordability Score
• Promote low-cost broadband services to community members at
host site, events, etc.
• Participate in local broadband related events and meetings (i.e.,
broadband taskforce, committees)
• Evaluate the progress of adoption for community members who
indicated affordability or availability as a barrier to adoption
Roles: • Digital Inclusion Program Manager will serve as the
primary contact for each Regional Digital Coordinator. Will
provide information on the status of the region as a baseline, the
progress goals for the upcoming quarter, and the resources
available for affordability and availability of broadband service to
the Regional Digital Coordinator.
• Regional Digital Coordinator will serve as the primary
contact for each of the prosperity regions and the larger
municipalities in the state. Will report directly to the MIHI office.
Will flow information from the Digital Inclusion Program
Manager regarding resources to the Community Digital
Navigator. Will also share concerns with Digital Inclusion
Program Manager from Community Digital navigators as needed.
• Community Digital Navigator will serve as the leads in
communities to support efforts to expand the impact of
broadband in areas that covered populations. Will report data
directly to the Regional Digital Coordinator.
Priorities, KPI, Planned Activities, Roles and Responsibilities Related to
Accessibility
Priorities: • Empower individuals to utilize online services available from their
health care provider, financial institution, or other online services
as needed (i.e. Secretary of state appointments)
• Target covered populations, particularly geographically isolated,
and low-income households, to take advantage of the online
services available to them to reduce unnecessary expenses relating
to transportation or lost wages for services which can be
conducted online

KPI: A digital government accessibility score

1. Determine how likely each covered population is to access
government services online as compared to how likely they are to
use telehealth, online banking, or online consumer services

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Activities: • Analyze webservices available throughout the state and create a

resource bank of offerings available from the state for enrollment
into assistance programs relating to workforce, education,
healthcare access, and general civic engagement.
• Utilize Intake Form for each participant to provide insight on
related points for the participants’ baseline Digital Government
Accessibility Score
• Measure progress periodically and at program exit
• Analyze webservices available throughout the region and create a
bank of resources available from the region’s healthcare systems,
financial institutions, Tribal resources, municipal and county
governments, and education institutions
• Provide tailored resource guides for industry improvement of
websites for improving their government accessibility score
Roles: • MIHI with the help of other state agencies will complete the
analysis of statewide resources and their current digital
government accessibility status. MIHI will develop the framework
for analysis and provide a template to Regional Digital
Coordinator to expand capacity for communities to utilize the
template for local use.
• MIHI, with the help of relevant state agencies, and external
partners, will facilitate the creation of resource guides to support
education, workforce, banking, healthcare, and other civic
agencies to improve their accessibility
• Regional Digital Coordinator will support Community Digital
Navigator with training and resources to encourage community
members to utilize the online services available to them.
• Community Digital Coordinator will promote and encourage
online services among targeted covered populations to telehealth,
online banking, and consumer services resources available
Priorities, KPI, Planned Activities, Roles and Responsibilities Related to Digital
Skills and Digital Literacy
Priorities: • Promote Digital Equity and Digital Literacy
• Target covered populations that are economically distressed,
geographically distressed areas, historically underrepresented and
uninvested
• Support non-deployment subprograms that promote digital
equity and literacy
• Develop awareness strategies that improve digital literacy
engagement and enrollment through marketing and
communication

KPI: Create a digital participation score that:

1. Combines the proportion of each covered population in each
region that struggles to use computers or internet enabled devices
2. How likely each covered population is to do various online tasks
versus the overall statewide average
3. Utilize Intake Form for each participant to provide insight on
related points for the individual Participation Score

Activities: • Partner with the State of Michigan Library to identify and employ
a digital skills training platform for adults
• Partner with the Michigan Department of Education to promote
digital skills competencies among K-12 students

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• Analyze regional and covered population data to focus resources

in areas with lower rates of digital literacy
• Evaluate digital literacy levels among participants in Digital
Navigator led activities
• Convene a workgroup comprised of MIHI and MDE staff to
provide quarterly status updates toward the status of digital
literacy in Michigan among covered populations in K-12,
postsecondary, and adult learning environments.

Roles: • MIHI will convene education workgroup and monitor growth

toward closing the digital literacy skills gap. Resources and
updates to relevant educational programs will be provided to the
Regional Digital Coordinator by the Digital Inclusion Program
Manager.
• Regional Digital Coordinator will provide information
updates to the Community Digital Navigator on programs
relevant to their region/community. Regional Digital Coordinator
will collect data from Community Coordinator and report back to
MIHI staff.
• Community Digital Navigator will facilitate digital literacy
programs for adult learners at community organizations and
provide data and progress to Regional Digital Coordinator. Any
challenges or barrier trends preventing adults from completing
course work will be shared with Regional Digital Coordinator and
MIHI staff.

Priorities, KPI, Planned Activities, Roles and Responsibilities Related to

Individual Cybersecurity
Priorities: • Target covered populations, specifically aging individuals,
geographically isolated individuals, and formerly incarcerated
individuals
• Utilize Intake Form for each participant to provide insight on
related points for the participants’ Digital Security Score
• Empower individuals to utilize online services available to them
with confidence to keep their information safe and to minimize
unnecessary expenses relating to transportation or lost wages for
services which can be conducted online
KPI: Develop a Digital Security Score that:
1. Determines the percentage of each covered population in each
region which has refrained from one or more online activities
due to cyber security concerns
2. Determines the percentage of each covered population in each
region which does not use the internet at all due to cybersecurity
or privacy concerns
Activities: • Develop communications strategy to promote safe online
practices to targeted populations
• Utilize practical examples of good cyber-hygiene to model
behavior among target populations
• Coordinate with Michigan Department of State and other relevant
state agencies to communicate best practices when engaging
online to protect personal information
• Convene/attend relevant workgroup with appropriate state
agencies to report the status of, and progress toward KPI,
specifically among targeted populations

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Roles: • MIHI will convene/attend the relevant workgroup among state

agencies to monitor progress of digital security among targeted
populations. MIHI will report changes quarterly to show progress
to the KPI. Communications strategy will be led by MIHI staff
with resources disseminating to the Regional Coordinator and
Community Digital Navigators.
• Regional Digital Coordinator will disseminate information to
the Community Digital Navigator and provide support to
Community Digital Navigator for any concerns regarding personal
cybersecurity as they arise.
• Community Digital Navigator will disseminate information to
community members regarding best practices to stay safe online
and share concerns from the public with the Regional Digital
Coordinator as needed.
Priorities, KPI, Planned Activities, Roles and Responsibilities Related to Device
Access and Affordability
Priorities: • Target covered populations, specifically aging individuals,
individuals with disabilities, formerly incarcerated individuals,
and low-income households
• Coordinate outreach (and in-reach in the case of incarcerated
individuals) and communication about how to purchase low-cost,
refurbished, or access free devices meeting the needs of the
individual
KPI: Create a device distress score for each covered population per region
which compares:
1. The percentage of homes with no computing device at all
2. Percentage of homes with only a smartphone
3. Percentage of homes where someone was unable to use a
computer five or more days during the last six months because
someone else was using it/it was elsewhere/it was otherwise
inaccessible
Activities: • Partner with internal and external organizations currently
refurbishing internet enabled devices to expeditiously distribute
devices to targeted populations
• Utilize Intake Form for each participant to provide insight on
related points for the participants’ baseline Device Distress Score
• Encourage responsible device ownership including the promotion
of digital skills and cyber-hygiene best practices with every device
• Coordinate with MDE to promote responsible device usage among
K-12 students, post-secondary, and adult learners
• Monitor the progress of device distress score on annual basis in
alignment with data sources
Roles: • MIHI will develop and secure relationships with internal and
external agencies to promote device distribution throughout more
significantly distressed regions in accordance with the device
distress score. MIHI will develop and coordinate the outreach and
in-reach strategies and capitalize on existing programs to utilize
funding efficiently. MIHI will elevate the importance of devices to
education with its partners throughout MDE. MIHI will monitor
the device distress score accordingly.
• Regional Digital Coordinators will promote device outreach
strategies to Community Digital Navigators and regional
businesses.
• Community Digital Navigators will disseminate information
to community members regarding device access and resources.

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Partners, Host sites

MIHI will continue to work with partners to scale programs that are successful in smaller areas
to statewide efforts. Digital Navigators will be placed in organizations as determined by a
competitive RFP process. Potential host site partners include, but are not limited to:
o Michigan Works! Associations o Councils of Government
o Library Systems o United Way organizations
o Local Community Colleges, Colleges, o Philanthropic entities
Universities o Healthcare Systems
o Intermediate School Districts o Non-profit entities
o Tribal Nations o Other partners, as needed

MIHI DE KPI Impact/Interaction with Outcomes

Outcomes

Economic and
workforce Civic and Delivery of
Key Performance Educational Health
development social other essential
Indicator outcomes outcomes
goals, plans engagement services
and outcomes

Affordability Score ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Digital Government
Accessibility Score ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Digital Participation
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Score

Digital Security Score ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Device Distress Score ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

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4.2 Timeline
Year/Stage Activities
• Complete Phase 1 of community meetings for initial data collection
• Complete partnership roundtable discussions
• Draft MICF Plan
2023 • Complete Phase 2 of community meetings for public comment and feedback on
the draft BEAD Five-Year Action Plan and the Digital Equity Plan
• Develop the DE plan, and finalize based off on public feedback

• Apply for State Digital Equity Capacity Grant funding

• Calculate Key Performance Indicator Scores
• Affordability
• Digital Government Accessibility
2024
• Digital Participation
• Digital Security
• Device Distress
• Finalize asset inventory
• Develop tracking mechanism for KPI progress
• Convene workgroups among relevant state agencies and external partners
• Coordination between State Digital Equity Capacity Grant and Digital Equity
programs funded through BEAD
• Begin designing outreach and in-reach campaigns for relevant KPIs
2025
• Issue RFP for Digital Navigator Host sites
• Hire Regional Digital Coordinators and Community Digital Navigators
• Finalize digital skills platform contract
• Collaborate on progress of workforce development strategies and programs
• Collaborate with MDE on progress of statewide digital skills competencies for
K-12 learners
2026 • Coordinate with MDHHS on health outcomes from pre-and post-deployment
of broadband projects in targeted areas
• Publish annual progress report card

• Monitor KPI progress quarterly and annually

• Publish annual progress report card
2027
• Monitor continuous quality improvement mechanisms for KPI analysis and
among internal systems/coordination
• Monitor KPI progress quarterly and annually
• Publish annual progress report card
2028 • Monitor continuous quality improvement mechanisms for KPI analysis and
among internal systems/coordination

• Monitor KPI progress quarterly and annually

• Publish annual progress report card
2029 • Monitor continuous quality improvement mechanisms for KPI analysis and
among internal systems/coordination

• Close the digital divide

2030
• Universal availability of reliable internet service

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5 Conclusion

Michigan's journey to digital equity is a challenging but achievable goal that promises a brighter
and more connected future. The state recognizes that broadband infrastructure and resources
are crucial for economic and workforce development, healthcare, education, transportation, and
more. Michigan's Digital Equity Plan aims at closing the digital divide by 2030 and ensuring
universal access and adoption of high-speed internet services. With its integrated and
comprehensive approach that involves state agencies, public and private stakeholders, and
community members, Michigan is well-positioned to achieve its objectives and become an
accessible and inclusive state.
Michigan's Digital Equity Plan sets out key goals, strategies, and measurable objectives to
ensure that every resident in the state has access to affordable high-speed internet services. This
includes developing and supporting new plans and programs to expand broadband coverage
statewide, facilitating digital skills training for all Michiganders, and removing barriers to
increased digital adoption, such as device access and computer training. Through collaboration
and a success-focused approach, Michigan is paving the way for a more connected future and an
inclusive state that offers boundless opportunities for every Michigander.

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Appendix A-1

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Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population

Introduction
Michigan’s digital inclusion asset inventory identifies existing resources available to promote
digital availability and adoption and has been used to identify any asset gaps that may exist.
Leveraging existing assets is a key strategy of both the Digital Equity and BEAD programs.
Leveraging existing assets is a key strategy for both the Digital Equity and BEAD programs, this
is why MIHI developed a Digital Inclusion Resource Map in September 2022. The map serves as
a tool for:
1. Collecting information regarding existing assets from the communities
2. Understanding the current digital inclusion programs, offerings, and resources available in
communities across Michigan.
3. Promoting these new and existing programs to communities
The map was developed based on responses received to the Michigan Statewide Digital
Inclusion survey developed by MIHI and distributed to key stakeholders and the public
throughout the state. MIHI used several channels to engage stakeholders and encourage
participation in the survey, including socializing it at community meetings as part of the MI
Connected Future tour, Partnership Roundtables, and in the MIHI newsletter. Additionally, the
survey is easily accessible and prominently displayed on the MIHI website. By targeting
stakeholders, such as non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, government agencies,
colleges, universities, trade schools, public libraries, and K-12 schools, the survey seeks to
determine the current state of digital equity and inclusion programs and identify key
organizations involved in these efforts. Based on these insights, the Digital Inclusion Resource
Map is continuously updated, providing an ongoing and up-to-date inventory of digital inclusion
assets in Michigan.
Methodology and Purpose
The purpose of this appendix is to provide NTIA with a high-level summary of digital inclusion
efforts that were undertaken in the state of Michigan, including the diverse set of organizations
and stakeholders involved in promoting digital inclusion throughout the state. By identifying
key players and networks, NTIA can gain a deeper understanding of the scope and scale of
digital inclusion initiatives across the state and the impact that these efforts are having on the
covered populations they serve.
Table A-1 summarizes assets (including non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations,
government agencies, colleges, universities, trade schools, public libraries, and K-12 schools or
school districts) that support digital equity and were submitted as part of the Michigan
Statewide Digital Inclusion survey in 2023. Each organization was aligned to the covered
populations they best serve based on the organization’s mission, values, and services provided.
Some organizations included in Table A-1 may serve multiple covered populations, but in order
to simplify our approach in the Organizations by Covered Population section below, they were
classified under a single covered population. Following Table A-1, a description of each of these
organizations is included, categorized by the category of covered population each organization
serves the most.

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Digital Inclusion Resource Map by Covered Populations

Table A-3: Select Digital Inclusion Assets by Covered Population

Select Digital
Covered Populations
Inclusion Assets
Covered Aging Incarcerated Veterans Individuals Individuals Racial/ Rural Youth
households individuals individuals with with a Ethnic community
disabilities language minorities
barrier

Detroit Blight Busters

Inc. ✓ ✓
Edgewood Village
Nonprofit Housing ✓ ✓ ✓
The Avalon Village Inc. ✓ ✓
SAY Detroit Play Center ✓ ✓
NPower Inc. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Digitunity ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Center County Center
for Seniors ✓
St. Patrick Senior Center ✓
Engage @ Eastern
Michigan University -
Digital Connecting ✓
Corps
Grand Traverse County
Commission on Aging ✓
Buchanan Area Senior
Center ✓
Greater Niles Senior
Center Inc. ✓
River Valley Senior
Center ✓
Senior Citizens Center ✓
ABC Computers ✓ ✓
Detroit Rescue Mission
Ministries Education ✓ ✓ ✓
Complex
Emmanuel House ✓ ✓
Michigan Department of
Military and Veterans ✓
Affairs
Closing the Digital Gap ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Ann Arbor Center for
Independent Living ✓
Chance For Life Satellite
Center Location ✓ ✓
Washtenaw Literacy ✓ ✓ ✓
American Indian Health
and Family Services ✓ ✓ ✓

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Select Digital
Covered Populations
Inclusion Assets
Covered Aging Incarcerated Veterans Individuals Individuals Racial/ Rural Youth
households individuals individuals with with a Ethnic community
disabilities language minorities
barrier

Alkebu-Ian Village ✓ ✓
Detroit Urban League ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Dream of Detroit ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Interfaith Center for
Racial Justice ✓
Latin Americans United
for Progress ✓ ✓
Latin Americans for
Social and Economic ✓ ✓
Development
The Detroit Association
of Black Organizations ✓
Association of Chinese
Americans Community ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Center
Pure Broadband ✓
Lee Township ✓
London Township ✓
Boys and Girls Club ✓ ✓
Center for Success ✓
Church of the Messiah /
BLVD Harambee ✓ ✓
Detroit Hispanic
Development ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Corporation
Detroit PAL ✓
Downtown Boxing Gym
Youth Program ✓
Life Remodeled ✓ ✓
New City Kids: Grand
Rapids ✓ ✓
New Level Sports
Ministries ✓
Baxter Community
Center ✓ ✓

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Organizations by Covered Population

Individuals living in households with incomes at or below 150% of the poverty line
1. Detroit Blight Busters Inc.: Detroit Blight Busters mission is to stabilize, revitalize, and
rebuild the city of Detroit. by demolishing, renovating, and boarding up blighted homes for
community use, and building community partnerships and events to help low to middle-
income families.
2. Edgewood Village Nonprofit Housing Corporation: Edgewood Village empowers low
to very low-income households by providing them with access to affordable housing,
educational opportunities, assistance, health and wellness, and community programming.
3. The Avalon Village Inc.: Avalon Village's mission is to create a safe, nurturing, uplifting,
and healing space within the City of Highland Park, MI by converting vacant and blighted
land into a valuable urban resource and providing basic living components for a quality,
comfortable, and prosperous life. In addition, the company provides basic services to the
community to enhance traditional municipal or government services that have been
reduced, eliminated, or have become unaffordable.
4. SAY Detroit Play Center: SAY Play helps students from low-income families overcome
literacy inequality while improving themselves and their communities. It has also become a
motivational learning center for Detroit youth with academics as its core.
5. NPower Inc.: NPower creates pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital
careers for military veterans and young adults from underserved communities. Their
mission is to move people from poverty to the middle class by creating access and pathways
to careers in technology fields.
6. Digitunity: Digitunity is a national organization working to eliminate technological gaps
between individuals by providing computers and related equipment to those in need since
1984. Their mission is to ensure that everyone has access to technology through a network of
stakeholders and solutions. They focus on the device component of digital equity from the
supply chain to community distribution.
Individuals 60 years of age or older
1. Central County Center for Seniors: The Central County Senior Center has a clear
objective of meeting the documented needs of senior citizens aged 60 and above. It aims to
provide solutions to their problems and offer enjoyable activities for those who reside in
their homes.
2. St. Patrick Senior Center: Detroit’s largest health, wellness, and activities center for
people over the age of 55. The center provides a variety of services including nutritious
meals, dozens of health & wellness programs, an on-site clinic, transportation to medical
appointments, and others.
3. Engage @ Eastern Michigan University - Digital Connecting Corps: The Digital
Connecting Corps, a collaboration between Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Engage @
EMU and University of Michigan (UM) Ginsberg Center, seeks to design and implement an
intergenerational and sustainable digital support program for older adults living in
Washtenaw County. The goal is to leverage the resources of both institutions’ student capital
to serve as tech coaches for the older adult community at older adult centers.
4. Grand Traverse County Commission on Aging: Grand Traverse County Commission
on Aging provides services to Grand Traverse County residents aged 60 and over to enable

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them to remain living at home. This includes personal care, medication management, foot
care, housecleaning, laundry, outdoor services, and personal emergency response systems.
5. Buchanan Area Senior Center: Buchanan Area Senior Center is a community focal
point on aging, where older adults gather for services, programs, and activities that reflect
their experiences and skills, and responds to their diverse needs and interests.
6. Greater Niles Senior Center Inc.: Greater Niles Senior Center is a senior citizen center
located in Berrien County, Michigan. The center provides a broad range of services and
programs for Seniors in the Niles area. Its mission is to offer a variety of activities to keep
seniors engaged and active.
7. River Valley Senior Center: River Valley Senior Center is a senior center located in
Harbert, Michigan. Its mission is to offer residents of the area aged 60 years and older a
range of educational, recreational, social, transportation, and referral services.
8. Senior Citizens Center: Senior Citizens Center is a senior citizen center located in Benton
Harbor, Michigan. The mission of the service Center is to provide safe, friendly, and positive
social, educational, and recreational services to enhance the independence and well-being of
the 60+ citizens of its community.
9. ABC Computers: ABC Computers offers a range of computer-related services, including
the sale of computer equipment, computer servicing (inclusive of laptops), onsite service,
data recovery, and providing educational services for both high school students and senior
citizens. They also offer consulting services.
Incarcerated Individuals
1. Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries Education Complex: The Detroit Rescue Mission
Ministries is a faith-based, non-profit organization that has devoted a wealth of resources to
meet the basic needs of humanity while motivating individuals to rebuild their lives, one life
at a time. DRMM has spent over 100 years of continued service providing food, shelter, and
services to intervene where homelessness and substance addiction occur.
Veterans
1. Emmanuel House: Emmanuel House is a nonprofit organization that provides daily
programs and services to over 70 homeless veterans. It offers homeless Veterans an
opportunity to take steps towards employment, create a self-help environment, establish a
safe and drug-free residential setting, provide economic management training services, and
facilitate structured interactions for the entire family.
2. Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs: The DMVA synchronizes
strategic, legislative, and fiscal initiatives to build and sustain military readiness, care and
advocate for veterans, and cultivate purposeful partnerships. Its vision is for Michigan to be
the premier state for advancing military readiness and serving veterans and their families.
3. Closing the Digital Gap: Closing the Digital Gap provides computer training, computer
ownership and internet access to small non-profit organizations and individual in Michigan
who may be unemployed, underemployed, low-income, single parents, disabled, veterans,
immigrants, at-risk youth, and seniors.
Individuals living with one or more disabilities
1. Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living: The center is a nonprofit disability
advocacy and service agency that assists people with disabilities and their families in living
full and productive lives. Its mission is to empower the lives of people with disabilities and
advocate for a more inclusive community for all.

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2. Chance For Life Satellite Center Location: The center's vision is to transform minds,
change hearts, and create safe communities by giving returning citizens and people with
disabilities an opportunity to develop themselves in a positive manner in spite of adverse
conditions. CFL focuses on fueling workforce development and strengthening family bonds.
Individuals with barriers to the English language (including English language
learners and those with low literacy)
1. Washtenaw Literacy: Washtenaw Literacy provides literacy support, free of charge, to
adults through a network of trained tutors. It is the organization’s vision to eliminate
illiteracy in Washtenaw County. The organization also offers free English as a Second
language (ESL) tutoring for adults. Tutoring is open to adults who live, work, or volunteer in
Washtenaw County.
Members of racial and ethnic minority groups
1. American Indian Health and Family Services: The American Indian Health and
Family Services is a nonprofit health and community wellness center whose mission is to
empower and enhance the physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being of American
Indian/Alaska Native individuals, families, and other underserved populations in Southeast
Michigan through culturally grounded health and family services.
2. Alkebu-Ian Village: The original purpose of the organization was to provide affordable
martial arts training for the African American youth. Over the years the organization has
expanded to include youth and adult sports and fitness, leadership training, visual and
performing arts, homework assistance and tutoring, youth entrepreneurship training and
community service.
3. Detroit Urban League: The Urban League of Detroit & Southeastern Michigan is
committed to being a provider of choice for its clients, an employer of choice for its co-
workers, and the investment of choice for its stakeholders and philanthropic entities. Its
mission is to enable African Americans and other persons of color to achieve their fullest
potential.
4. Dream of Detroit: Dream facilitates the growth of a thriving Muslim community, rooted
in Detroit’s Black Muslim history while attracting a young, multi-racial future. It also
remains committed to the broader neighborhood, meeting the concerns and building the
capacity and connectedness of all residents, no matter their background.
5. Interfaith Center for Racial Justice: The Interfaith Center for Racial Justice has been
working for over 50 years to build bridges of understanding among people of different
cultures and faith traditions. The center addresses issues that impact inclusion and
recognize that social and racial justice are key elements that impact inclusion in its
communities.
6. Latin Americans United for Progress: The organization focuses on empowering
Latinos to participate in creating a better community for all through advocacy, education &
celebration.
7. Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development: The development’s focus is
to promote the social economic educational development of the residents of South Detroit by
providing advocacy services and programs that create opportunities for the diverse
community to better their educational level employment opportunities health and well-
being.
8. The Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO): The association has been a
champion for greater unity and opportunities in Detroit's African American community.

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Through an expansive network of over 130 organizations, DABO strives to create meaningful
resources aimed at improving quality-of-life initiatives around the city. It has uplifted,
unified, and empowered Detroit’s African American community through various programs,
initiatives, and events.
9. Association of Chinese Americans Community Center: The center plays a leading
role in enriching the lives of Asian Pacific Americans in the Metro-Detroit region. The
organization is one of several entities that serve the Chinese and Asian Pacific American
communities, providing year-round programs that include social services, educational
classes, preventive health care, and cultural events. Programs focus currently on wellness for
seniors and underserved Asians, education excellence and culture awareness for youths, and
social and education services for adults.
Individuals residing in rural areas
1. Pure Broadband: Pure Broadband is an internet service provider focusing on serving
rural communities for over 10 years. Pure provides rural internet, home automation, IT
support, and personalized installations.
2. Lee Township: Lee Township is a government agency trying to get reliable, affordable
internet in a rural community. The township partners with county and local service
providers to ensure residents have access to affordable and reliable broadband services.
3. London Township: London Township is a local township agency with a population of
3,000 with the goal of getting reliable internet in its rural community.
Youth
1. Boys and Girls Club: The club is a nonprofit youth development organization that seeks
to create hope, opportunity and foster civic engagement by inspiring and enabling all young
people, especially those that need the most, to realize their full potential as productive,
responsible, and caring citizens. The club focuses on three core areas to meet diverse needs
and interests of members - academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy
lifestyles.
2. Center for Success: The mission of the Center for Success is to unite literacy and
community to empower students in the journey of education. The center offers mentoring,
bringing together students and community partners during one-on-one, small group and
whole class sessions to allow students to participate in various opportunities.
3. Church of the Messiah / BLVD Harambee: BLVD Harambee is a non-profit
organization helping foster life skills and connect resources for the holistic development of
young people in the neighborhood. The church’s primary focus is young people; the
congregation is 60% African American males under thirty.
4. Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation: DHDC is an organization that focuses on
youth and families, particularly those at high risk within the Hispanic communities. DHDC
provides a range of community services including adult continuing education,
conversational Spanish classes, parenting classes, and after-school and summer programs
for youth. DHDC’s mission is to make a difference by creating life-changing opportunities
for youth and their families. Their vision is to create a stable and safe community where
youth and families have quality opportunities for self-empowerment, education, and
personal wealth.
5. Detroit PAL: Detroit PAL helps youth find their greatness through athletic, academic, and
leadership development programs. The Detroit PAL department of Youth Enrichment
provides supplemental services for youth and their families in order to help influence

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student-athletes to be school and life ready. It focuses on literacy and academic enrichment,
leadership development, college readiness, mentoring, workforce development,
partnerships, and collaboration.
6. Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program: DBG is a leading, free, out-of-school time
program centered around student achievement and success. DBG has been providing free
academic and athletic programs to students with continuing mentorship and support up to
the age of 25.
7. Life Remodeled: Life remodeled repurposes properties into one stop hubs of opportunity
for entire families to thrive. The organization fills buildings with the best and brightest
nonprofit organizations who are providing youth programs, workforce development, and
human services to tens of thousands of students and community members each year.
8. New City Kids: Grand Rapids: New City Kids offers after school programming for local
low-income youth. Children and teens get a chance to explore music and academics in a
creative and fun environment.
9. New Level Sport Ministries: New Level Sport Ministries is a non-profit youth support
service committed to developing purpose-driven individuals that will be highly effective in
all aspects of life. It is a Student Athlete Support Service, for ages 1 – 18 with a mission to
maximize and balance the intellectual, spiritual, mental, and physical elements of all
participating student-athletes.
10. Baxter Community Center: The Baxter Community Center's Child Development Center
serves infants through preschoolers and provides a Wholistic Health Center that offers
dental and mental health services through partnerships with local clinics and dedicated
volunteers. It also has a marketplace which provides fresh produce to those in need of food
assistance.

Digital Inclusion Plans

Existing County Plans

Connected Nation's "Connected Community" program has partnered with 10 counties across the
state of Michigan to conduct an assessment regarding the current status of broadband and to
establish a broadband planning process. Through surveys of local residents, businesses, and
organizations, the program aims to understand the existing resources and capabilities in place to
support the access, adoption, and use of broadband technology in homes and businesses. Data
obtained from this assessment is used to develop an appropriate action plan to improve the
broadband ecosystem effectively, addressing the current and future broadband needs of these
counties. The program's aim is to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and availability of
broadband technology in the counties, leading to social and economic development. Additional
information by county is included below. It’s important to note that as more households and
communities participate in the Connected Community program, these figures are likely to
change.
Cheboygan County: Data from Cheboygan County represent survey responses collected between
September 28, 2020, and January 29, 2021. Altogether, 1,126 Cheboygan County households
responded to the survey; some responded more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and January 29,
2021.

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Digital Equity Plan (DRAFT)
State of Michigan

Eaton County: Data from Eaton County represent survey responses collected between
September and November 2021. During this time, 1,322 Eaton County households responded to
the survey, with some households responding more than once. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and November 30,
2021. Eaton County also released the Executive Summary of their Technology Action Plan in
January 2022. Eaton County’s Executive Summary document can be accessed using the
following link: Eaton-County_Executive-Summary_01272022.pdf (connectednation.org).
Huron County: Data from Huron County represent survey responses collected between
December 2020 and April 2021. During this time, 682 Huron County households responded to
the survey, with some households responding more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and April 30, 2021.
Lake County: Data from Lake County represent survey responses collected between September
2020 and February 2021. During this time, 464 Lake County households responded to the
survey, with some households responding more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and February 28,
2021.
Lapeer County: Data from Lapeer County represent survey responses collected between October
9, 2020, and January 1, 2021. Altogether, 1,845 Lapeer County households responded to the
survey. Data from all Connected communities represent survey responses collected between
January 1, 2017, and January 29, 2021.
Midland County: Data from Midland County represent survey responses collected between
October 26, 2020, and January 26, 2021. Altogether, 1,438 Midland County households
responded to the survey. Data from all Connected communities represent survey responses
collected between January 1, 2017, and January 29, 2021.
Newaygo County: Data from Newaygo County represent survey responses collected between
April 2017 and September 2018. During this time, 929 Newaygo County households responded
to the survey, with some households responding more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and February 28,
2021.
Oceana County: Data from Oceana County represent 481 households that responded to the
survey in 2017 and 537 households that responded in 2021, with some households responding
more than one time. Data from all Connected communities represent survey responses collected
between January 1, 2017, and May 31, 2021.
Sanilac County: Data from Sanilac County represent survey responses collected between
October 2020 and February 2021. During this time, 676 Sanilac County households responded
to the survey, with some households responding more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and February 28,
2021.
Tuscola County: Data from Tuscola County represent survey responses collected between
February 2021 and April 2021. During this time, 663 Tuscola County households responded to
the survey, with some households responding more than one time. Data from all Connected
communities represent survey responses collected between January 1, 2017, and April 30, 2021.

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