Midcontinent Communications operates triple play networks in a number of Minnesota communities.  I talked with Midcontinent’s Tom Simmons, SVP of Public Policy, at the recent Connect Minnesota Broadband Summit.  He told me about a new digital inclusion program that they are rolling out across their system that will provide a low-cost option for low-income households.

For $9.95, households that meet the federal Lifeline program requirements can subscribe to a 5 Mb/1 Mb broadband service.  This service includes free installation and a free modem with wi-fi capabilities.

This is a real opportunity for community broadband leaders in Midcontinent communities to let key stakeholders know about this program – school administrators, social service agencies and other organizations that work directly with people with low-incomes.

I also see that Midcontinent also has a grant-giving foundation with an online application form.  That looks like an opportunity to help bring additional funding to your community initiatives!

I’d love to hear from other Minnesota providers who are offering reduced rates. We have mentioned Comcast, CenturyLink, Sjoberg Cable, Connect2Compete, and special cases in Itasca County – there may be more out there and we’d like to know about them.