Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Infrastructure Deployment (2) Program

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program is a federally authorized initiative under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and is administered in Michigan by the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. The program is part of a nationwide effort to expand broadband infrastructure and close the digital divide, with Michigan receiving a substantial allocation of funding to support statewide connectivity goals. The initiative prioritizes universal broadband access, affordability, and equitable adoption while also supporting workforce development and economic growth through improved digital infrastructure. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to deploy broadband infrastructure to areas that currently lack adequate service. The program establishes a clear prioritization framework, beginning with unserved locations, followed by underserved locations, and finally community anchor institutions such as schools, healthcare providers, and public safety entities. In addition to infrastructure deployment, funding may also support complementary activities including outreach, digital literacy training, remote learning capabilities, and telehealth services, ensuring that broadband access translates into meaningful usage and community benefit. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entity types such as local governments, nonprofit organizations including certain tax-exempt entities, for-profit companies, public-private partnerships, and tribal organizations. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial, technical, managerial, and operational capacity to successfully execute broadband deployment projects. The program requires a 25 percent cost match based on the grant amount, reinforcing the expectation of shared investment and commitment from awardees. The application process includes a preregistration or prequalification phase designed to assess organizational readiness prior to project submission. Applicants are encouraged to submit documentation demonstrating their capabilities in advance of the formal application window. Once the application period opens, applicants must submit detailed project proposals that include network designs, financial projections, implementation timelines, and compliance documentation. Submissions are completed through the designated online system, and all required materials must be provided in full by the stated deadline. Evaluation of applications is conducted based on criteria established in the federal Notice of Funding Opportunity and the state’s approved proposal framework. These criteria assess technical feasibility, cost efficiency, scalability, and the ability to meet performance requirements such as minimum broadband speeds and latency standards. Additional considerations include the applicant’s ability to complete the project within the required timeframe and deliver service to all designated locations. The funding opportunity follows a defined timeline, with the request for proposals published in late January and applications due in mid-August. Approval decisions are expected shortly after the submission deadline. The program operates as a competitive grant, and while the total available funding is substantial, individual award amounts are determined based on project scope and need rather than fixed minimum or maximum thresholds. Awardees are expected to complete network build-out and initiate service within a multi-year performance period, typically not exceeding four years from the execution of the grant agreement. For additional information or clarification, applicants may contact the designated program official at the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office. The program emphasizes thorough preparation, compliance with federal and state requirements, and a strong focus on delivering reliable broadband access to underserved communities across Michigan.

Submit preregistration materials early and ensure all technical and financial documentation is complete to avoid delays