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The Michigan High Speed Internet Office (MIHI) has launched a new webisode series called MI BEAD Breakdown. This series provides clear updates on the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program in Michigan and what it means for communities across the state.
In the first episode, Eric Frederick, Chief Connectivity Officer for MIHI, shares the history of the BEAD program, where it stands today and what to expect next as Michigan works to expand high speed internet access.
Through the Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) program more than 49,000 homes and businesses had been connected to new fiber optic high-speed internet service as of Dec. 31, 2025. MIHI looks forward to sharing updates throughout 2026 about the ongoing results of the ROBIN program. All ROBIN projects are due to be completed by the end of 2026, and we expect more than 82,000 homes and businesses will have gained service through this program when it is complete.
We are grateful to our community partners who have helped us make so much progress. We look forward to working together throughout the year to bring high-speed internet to all corners of the state and ensuring that everyone has the tools to thrive in the digital age.
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Calhoun County Michigan has been selected as a 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). This national recognition highlights the county’s work to expand digital access and support for residents. The Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program honors local governments that are leading strong efforts to close the digital divide. Awardees are chosen for their work to increase access to reliable internet, devices, digital skills training and support services that help community members thrive in today’s connected world.
For more information about the Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program and the full list of 2025 awardees, visit the NDIA website.
When it comes to identity theft taking action early can make a difference. Credit freezes and fraud alerts are two tools that help protect your credit from misuse.
A credit freeze is a free tool that helps prevent identity thieves from opening new credit accounts in your name. When a freeze is in place lenders cannot access your credit report to approve new credit. This means no one, including you, can open a new credit account until the freeze is lifted. A credit freeze does not affect your credit score and stays in place until you remove it. To place a freeze, contact all three credit bureaus via their websites: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. When you need to apply for credit you can temporarily lift the freeze with the bureau the lender uses then place it back once you are done.
A fraud alert is another free tool that tells lenders to verify your identity before opening a new account in your name. An initial fraud alert lasts one year and can be renewed. You only need to contact one of the three credit bureaus to place it and that bureau will notify the other two. There are also extended fraud alerts for people who have experienced identity theft and active duty servicemembers. Both tools can help reduce the risk of new accounts being opened without your permission.
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