Tech Strategy Report

THE WHY

TALENT

GROWTH

ECOSYSTEM

RESOURCES

Launch Tech Events Support Entrepreneurs Grow Incubators & Accelerators Increase Density Expand Broadband

Overview

Adult Access to Broadband By Race

Student Access to Broadband

The Broadband Accessibility Divide: Students Living in Rural Areas with Access to High-Speed Internet

Establishing reliable and accessible high-speed internet services signals to the rest of the world that Greater Grand Rapids is fully invested in becoming the Midwest’s prominent tech hub. We must continue efforts to spread broadband accessibility throughout our region by ensuring the service is affordable and available to everyone, whether in the urban core or suburban and rural areas.

These students are often forced to rely on alternatives such as smartphones for internet access; however, smaller screens and data caps have been shown to reduce student performance, ranging from homework completion and digital skills to the intent to attend college.

53% Students Living in Rural Areas with Access to High Speed Internet

Less Likely to Have High Speed Internet

As Likely Not to Have Any Access At All

Plus-Circle

Plus-Circle

Adult Access to Broadband By Race

Student Access to Broadband

Michigan State University. Broadband and Student Performance Gaps. 2018

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