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 The Michigan High Speed Internet Office (MIHI) recently had the opportunity to attend a construction kickoff event hosted by Highline . This event brought together contractors and industry partners to promote a safe and productive construction season. Broadband construction not only serves to bring new infrastructure to areas across Michigan, but it also facilitates a growing need for skilled workforce in the broadband industry.
Construction season has officially begun in Michigan which means that broadband infrastructure construction has started as well. Participants of the Realizing Opportunities with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) grant program are continuing to build networks all across Michigan. Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) participants are working to complete the permitting and administrative requirements and prepare to begin their own construction in the coming months.
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The Rural Utility Service, a Rural Development agencyof the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has issued a notice of funding opportunity for rural communities and entities that provide education or healthcare through telecommunications. Investing in distance learning and telemedicine aligns with MIHIs work to leverage technology to improve Michigander’s quality of life.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has announced two new funding opportunities totaling approximately $790 million to help Tribal and Native communities improve internet access, build digital skills and expand opportunities for education, health care, employment and economic growth.
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program
The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program supports projects that expand high speed internet access and improve connectivity on Tribal lands. Funding can be used for broadband infrastructure, online learning, telehealth services, workforce development and other community needs. Eligible applicants include Tribal governments, Tribal colleges and universities, Tribal organizations, Alaska Native corporations and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
Native Entities Grant Program
The Native Entities Grant Program supports projects that help more people use and benefit from broadband services. Funding can be used for digital skills training, workforce development, broadband service assistance, public computer centers and other activities that increase internet use in Native communities. Eligible applicants include Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities and Native Hawaiian organizations.
The application window opened on June 17, 2026, and closes Sept. 17, 2026. For program details, webinar information and to apply, visit NTIA's BroadbandUSA website.
As summer vacation begins many kids will spend more time playing online and app-based games. While gaming can be fun and social, it is important for parents to take steps to help keep kids safe online.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends the following steps to keep kids safe while gaming:
- Review age ratings, read reviews and learn about a game’s chat functions, in game purchases, advertising and location sharing features before allowing a child to play.
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Use parental controls to set age-appropriate game restrictions, limit play time, require passwords for purchases and manage who can communicate with your child.
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Talk with kids about never sharing personal information such as their name, school, address or weekend plans.
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Encourage kids to play only with people they know and to avoid moving conversations to other apps or platforms.
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Teach kids to block and report players who bully them, ask personal questions or make them feel uncomfortable.
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Regularly review friends lists, monitor gameplay and discuss family expectations for safe online behavior.
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