Expanding access to broadband through increased state funding and improved state funding structures is our top policy priority. Significant public funding is coming and communities should make sure they are ready to apply for these funds.
This summer, the Maine Legislature established the Maine Connectivity Authority, a new statewide broadband entity. The Maine Connectivity Authority will be working to clarify its relationship with ConnectMaine this winter. ConnectMaine is expected to open a grant round with the remaining bond funds in early 2022.
Check out the following resources to learn more about broadband in Maine:
- For information about upcoming opportunities to support broadband policy, please sign up for the for the Maine Broadband Coalition.
- Check out this blog post about the Coalition’s policy priorities.
- Check out the Maine Connectivity Authority website to learn more and sign up for updates.
- Sign up for updates from the ConnectMaine Authority, and check out the resources available, including upcoming funding opportunities, on their website.
- “Not happy with your internet? Now’s the time to do something about it;” Portland Press Herald; October 2021
- “Maine’s broadband infrastructure will expand with new funding to bridge the digital divide;” Maine Public; November 2021
- “Bremen becomes 1st midcoast Maine town to make high-speed broadband available to all;” Bangor Daily News; December 2021
- “Maine Connectivity Authority allocates $10 million to ConnectMaine;” Village Soup; January 18, 2022
- “Even with federal funding, broadband expansion requires local organizing;” Bangor Daily News; January 23, 2022
