Broadband

Broadband has revolutionized business, government, education, work and lifestyles. Without robust broadband access and fully technologically literate populations, rural communities will be unable to take advantage of the extraordinary benefits that ultra high-speed, next-generation Internet can provide.

Since 2003, the Blandin Community Broadband Program has engaged at local, state and federal levels to ignite and sustain policies that support rural access to robust broadband. Guiding this work is a strategy board of public and private leaders to guide the initiative, and a vision.

Scroll down for information about our broadband community cohorts and available grants.

Minnesota Broadband County Profiles

Our annual rundown of broadband action across the state — updated for 2020

Visit the Profiles

Learn More About Broadband

Research and reports, past broadband conference materials, tools you can use and success stories.

Learn About Broadband

Broadband Webinar Series

Links to upcoming broadband discussion groups and archived sessions where MN and national broadband leaders share insights and tips to transform communities.

Blandin Broadband Communities Program

Intensive, two-year partnerships with Blandin Foundation to advance local broadband initiatives.

Robust Network Feasibility Fund Grants

Matching grants to support research on the feasibility of geographically based broadband networks.

Community Broadband Resources Program

Technical assistance and general support as your community explores its next steps in high-speed internet services.

Arrowhead Intelligent Region

A partnership to deliver on a broadband-fueled economy in NE Minnesota

From the Blandin on Broadband Blog

MN Legislature is looking at broadband as a pandemic imperative – funding amount starts in House at $120 million

Jan 24

Mankato Free Press reports… Area lawmakers say broadband funding will be a crucial issue in this year’s legislative session, but no one is certain just how much the state will spend. COVID-related regulations and lockdown efforts exacerbated Greater Minnesota’s need … Continue reading →

Senator Aric Putnam highlights need for broadband (St Cloud)

Jan 23

St Cloud Times posts a column from Aric Putnam (Minnesota Senate District 14A) including his interest in working on better broadband… Outside my committee work, I’d like to work on legislation that protects the livelihoods and legacies of family farmers, … Continue reading →

Visit the Blandin on Broadband Blog

Contact Us

Your feedback strengthens our broadband programs. Contact us to share your thoughts. You may also subscribe to our mailing list, or contact the following Broadband team members.