From State of Michigan Digital Equity Plan (DRAFT) July 2023
The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office 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.
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.