Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the reopening of New York State’s Municipal Infrastructure Program (MIP) Request for Applications, making up to $36 million available for broadband infrastructure projects through ConnectALL, the state’s broadband office. The MIP aims to connect unserved and underserved communities to high-speed internet using open-access and publicly controlled broadband networks. Since its inception, the program has allocated $268 million to projects in 24 counties, building more than 2,300 miles of fiber optic infrastructure and 68 wireless hubs that serve over 96,000 homes and businesses.
Governor Hochul stated, “Our ConnectALL initiative is delivering results — connecting thousands of homes and businesses to high-speed internet across every region of the state. With this latest round of funding, we’re building on that progress and putting communities in the driver’s seat to close the digital divide once and for all.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Municipal Infrastructure Program is helping communities take control of their digital future by supporting locally driven broadband infrastructure projects that expand access, improve reliability, and promote competition. This RFA builds on New York State’s commitment to closing the digital divide by investing in infrastructure that strengthens local networks and delivers long-term economic opportunity for communities across the state.”
Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis until April 30. Reviews will begin February 2. Projects supported by this funding must be substantially complete by December 31, 2026. Individual grants are expected to be less than $10 million each. Further details about eligibility and application procedures can be found at https://broadband.ny.gov/municipal-infrastructure-program.
Eligible uses for MIP funding include last mile infrastructure such as cabling and equipment needed to deliver service from local Internet Exchanges to end users; fiber connections to Internet Exchange Points or Data Centers; acquisition of existing infrastructure assets if it improves last mile delivery; among others.
Expanding broadband access has been a key focus of Governor Hochul’s administration. Through ConnectALL, New York State is investing over $1 billion into digital infrastructure improvements with an aim to increase provider competition and ensure affordable high-speed internet statewide.
ConnectALL oversees several programs beyond MIP:
– The Digital Equity Program plans a $50 million investment in improving digital literacy skills, job readiness, privacy protections, device access, and online government services.
– The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program allocates $100 million—including $33 million from federal sources—to bring new broadband connections to affordable housing units.
– The ConnectALL Deployment Program will distribute $644.6 million in federal funds to reach unserved areas; applications closed in July pending final federal approval.
– The Connectivity Innovation Program supports development of new business models and technologies for increased private sector involvement.
– The Regional and Local Assistance Program offers grants or technical assistance for planning broadband deployments or conducting feasibility studies.
– The Excelsior Broadband Network project will create a statewide public network starting with a new fiber line along the New York Thruway.
– The Mobile Service Connectivity initiative seeks regional solutions for expanding cellular coverage.
Senator Charles Schumer commented: “Access to high-speed internet is not a luxury, but a necessity, a utility as vital as electricity for everyday life. I’m proud to deliver up to $36 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan to help expand broadband infrastructure to boost affordable, high-quality internet access for homes and businesses across New York State. This funding will help families stay connected to education, to healthcare, economic opportunity, and each other, all while creating good-paying jobs. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s work putting federal dollars to work to ensure all New Yorkers get the equitable access to the internet that they deserve, and encourage New Yorkers to apply for this support.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said: “All New Yorkers deserve access to fast and reliable internet. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership in expanding the ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program and investing in broadband across every region of our state, and I will keep fighting to support critical projects that connect our communities.”
State Senator Kristen Gonzalez added: “This latest expansion of the Municipal Infrastructure Program is another step in closing the digital divide for all New Yorkers. I thank the Governor for her leadership and commitment to uplifting ConnectALL, and I am proud of our state’s work in expanding affordable broadband access for public good.”
Assemblymember Steve Otis stated: “This new round of Municipal Infrastructure Program grants is another opportunity for local governments to receive state funding to close broadband gaps in their communities. Last week, we held an Assembly hearing detailing the great work of ESD’s ConnectALL office. Congratulations to Governor Hochul, ESD Commissioner Hope Knight, and ConnectALL’s Senior Vice President Josh Breitbart for their continued leadership on closing the broadband gaps throughout New York State.”
