Governor Walz Introduces Largest-Ever Investment in Broadband Access Across Minnesota

Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) said that internet providers will receive nearly $100 million to expand broadband coverage to more Minnesotans, representing the largest single investment in broadband infrastructure in state history. In total, 61 broadband expansion projects around Minnesota will receive $99.6 million in grants from the Border-to-Border Broadband program administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)'s Office of Broadband Development. Provider grantees estimate the funding will extend new high-speed internet connections to more than 33,000 Minnesota homes and businesses in 48 counties. This investment includes funding primarily from two sources – half of a $50 million appropriation from the state Legislature signed into law in 2022 by Governor Walz, and $70 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).