Priority Projects and Partnerships

Massachusetts Broadband Institute and Other Broadband Agencies

Since 2008, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) is an authority on providing funding to increase broadband access across communities and public spaces to enhance digital equity. Greater broadband access creates a stronger economy, while supporting educational outcomes, enhancing healthcare, public safety, and social services . MBI provides technical assistance and funding to enhance broadband access in the state. In 2010, MBI awarded $2M to OpenCape, a non-profit located on Cape Cod, to construct a comprehensive middle mile communications network to expand broadband access throughout Cape Cod, the Islands and the South Coast region.

Proposed Investments and Initiatives: Today, MBI offers a of the Municipal Digital Equity Planning grant which is expected to enhance digital access in the region, particularly among the most vulnerable populations, while equipping local municipalities with the capacity to expand their broadband network. Through this program, MBI seeks to guide municipal decision-making and investments that will increase access, adoption, and usage of the internet for the populations most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare municipalities to submit grant proposals to existing or forthcoming state or federal programs to support digital equity activities.

Strengths

• Strong regional universities, colleges, and community colleges

• Cities and large towns with growing and increasingly more diverse and educated populations

Weaknesses

• Modern infrastructure investments – especially in ports, water, sewer, and broadband – are still required for more growth

Threats

• An aging population with increasing need for social services

• Perceptions of persistently high unemployment and low educational attainment