This EDA investment supports the northeast service cooperative (nesc) with the construction of more than 100 miles of middle-mile broadband fiber to expand the network and reach new local internet…

The Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded a $4.175 million Project Grant to the Northeast Service Cooperative (NESC) under the Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) program on November 4, 2021. The funding will support NESC's construction of over 100 miles of middle-mile broadband fiber network infrastructure to expand connectivity and reach new Internet Service Providers in underserved areas across six counties in Northeast Minnesota. Once completed, the project's open access broadband network expansion is expected to directly benefit the region's designated Opportunity Zone and foster new economic opportunities by enhancing connectivity, while also creating and retaining jobs and strengthening the overall regional economy in Northeast Minnesota.

This EDA investment supports the northeast service cooperative (nesc) with the construction of more than 100 miles of middle-mile broadband fiber to expand the network and reach new local internet service providers, who will provide last-mile connections to remote and underserved areas throughout the vast geography of six counties of northeast minnesota. The project will allow nesc to meet the region's explosive demand for broadband connectivity and help the region recover from the covid-19 pandemic by providing an opening for new opportunities via enhanced broadband access. Once completed, the project will benefit a designated opportunity zone, create and retain jobs, increase private investment, and strengthen the regional economy.