New York has reopened applications for its Municipal Infrastructure Program (MIP), making up to $36 million in state and federal funding available to help local governments and public entities build broadband networks in unserved and underserved communities.
The announcement from Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office is part of the ConnectALL Initiative’s broader effort to close the digital divide and expand internet access across the state. ConnectALL, New York’s broadband office, is moving toward its connectivity goals with more than $1 billion in new public and private investments—the largest-ever commitment to the state’s digital infrastructure, according to officials.
The latest round of MIP funding is open for certain public entities, municipal utilities and utility cooperatives. Eligible private partner applicants include internet service providers, managed service providers and broadband infrastructure builders and owners. The funds are intended to support infrastructure projects that provide affordable, high-quality internet service options to New Yorkers.
Eligible projects include:
- Last-mile infrastructure: Funding can be used to build the physical connections that bring high-speed internet from local network hubs directly to end users, including fiber cabling, wires, necessary pole work, preparation work and radios for service delivery. It also covers the connection from a street pole or conduit into a building.
- Fiber connections to internet exchange points or data centers: Grants can support the fiber links that carry broadband traffic to and from data centers or internet exchange points, along with the networking equipment such as routers and switches needed to tie networks together and link to larger regional systems.
- Acquisition of existing infrastructure assets: Applicants may use funds to purchase existing broadband infrastructure, but must show that taking ownership of those assets will enhance local service delivery and support expanded internet access.
The application period runs through April 30, and ConnectALL will begin reviewing submissions Feb. 2. Projects must be substantially complete by Dec. 31, 2026, in accordance with federal funding requirements, and individual grants are expected to be under $10 million.
This latest funding follows $268 million in awards for active MIP projects across 24 counties that have supported more than 2,300 miles of new fiber and 68 wireless hubs, serving over 96,000 homes and businesses statewide.
Officials say the expanded broadband infrastructure is designed to increase competition among providers and enhance access to reliable, affordable internet service in communities that have lacked connectivity.
Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels
For more of the latest from the expansive government marketplace, check Government Market News daily for new stories, insights and profiles from public sector professionals. Check out our national contracting newsletter here.
