Collaborative Networks Empower Michigan Communities with Affordable, Community-Owned Broadband Solutions
November 19, 2025 —
The Broadband Institute Foundation (BIF), dba CommunityInternet, is thrilled to announce that we are seeking new partners as we advance our mission to ensure that everyone in Michigan has access to affordable, sustainable, and community-owned Internet. Broadband Institute Foundation helps communities build and manage their own broadband networks – keeping costs low and reinvesting benefits locally. We envision a future where the Internet is a public commons, connecting communities much like the sidewalk connects your neighborhood.
In collaboration with our partners at 123Net, we invite anyone who cares about closing the digital divide to schedule an exploratory meeting with us. “Our work begins with listening, ” said Dr. Ron Suarez, Executive Director of BIF. “Every community has unique needs, and our role is to help them design solutions that fit their goals, train local residents to manage their networks, and strengthen digital equity from the ground up.”
As a community-oriented organization, we believe every stakeholder has a seat at the table. So whether you’re in local government, work at a library or school, advance affordable housing in your community, consider yourself a tech hobbyist or just care about your neighbors, we want to hear from you. Our services include:
- Community Internet Planning & Implementation. For example, we worked with 123Net to deliver free internet service to 50 affordable housing units at the Veridian at County Farm “net zero” project in Ann Arbor. Electricity and Internet savings for participating households is an estimated $3,600 annually. We advised Veridian how to get wholesale pricing by purchasing one connection using homeowners association fees. In doing so, BIF ensures that residents have reliable, low-cost, high-speed connectivity and more money in their pockets to spend on other essential needs.
- Library Tech Hub Development. By collaborating with libraries, local schools, and stakeholders, BIF helps local libraries advance their capacity to serve communities. Depending on interest and need, BIF can help develop and implement digital literacy resources; assist in the acquisition of tools found in makerspaces like 3D printers, soldering stations, and electronics kits; and implementation of digital networking curricula.
- Events & Workshop Facilitation. BIF knows that data centers seem to be popping up everywhere, and that, without a tech background, understanding the implications can be difficult. If your town has been approached and could benefit from talking to knowledgeable experts who care about Michigan just as much as you do, BIF wants to help. We provide consultation and host community events about how AI and big tech impacts the everyday lives of Michigan residents.
- Online Peer-to-Peer Learning. In addition to CommunityInternet.coop courses, BIF is also preparing to launch coTutr, an AI-powered teach-the-teacher learning platform designed to help communities build, connect, and govern their own digital ecosystems, as we extend our mission into digital literacy and community capacity building. Sustainability requires regenerative, local, circular-economies. CoTutr will deliver scalable, socially just innovation with strong returns for aligned investors and shared prosperity through Commons-Based Peer Production.
Reach out to us at social@communityinternet.coop, 415-579-3272, or feel free to book a time on our calendar here.
Media Contact: Dr. Ron Suarez
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