Michigan makes connection to boost broadband
Hearing a computer-generated voice say “You’ve got mail” following a long—and often times unpredictable—dial-up process was once music to people’s ears, but times are changing—and fast!
The Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) is working hard to ensure that rural Michigan isn’t left behind. MFB wants farmers to hear, “You’ve got broadband.”
Click for interactive MI broadband map
Earlier this year, the organization asked itself: What are the roadblocks that are slowing or stopping Michigan agriculture from growing? How can Farm Bureau members address these challenges? The answers became the foundation of Michigan’s Ag Plan: MAP to the Future.
MAP outlines organizational priorities based on factors identified as pivotal to the growth of Michigan’s food and agriculture industry, one of which is improving market access for agriculture.
Deeper examination revealed that, among other things, market access hinges on utilities, including broadband technology. Agriculture, after all, is a business, and like most businesses, agriculture needs broadband access to remain competitive.
Yet, more than 40 percent of Michigan residents lack broadband, primarily in rural parts of the state where agriculture is prevalent. Enter CONNECT Michigan.
CONNECT Michigan is a non-profit organization working in partnership with the Michigan Public Service Commission as the designated entity for broadband mapping and planning in the state.
The group works to unite local governments, businesses, citizens and broadband providers to increase broadband service in the state’s underserved areas, focusing on broadband access, adoption and use.
Naturally, MFB has found an ally in CONNECT Michigan. The video Michigan Farm Bureau Supports CONNECT Michigan’s Role in Broadband Expansion delves deeper into rural Michigan’s need for broadband and how CONNECT Michigan can help.
You can learn more about MFB’s market access priorities and other MAP initiatives at http://bit.ly/K55oek.
