Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative (MLEC) is happy to announce that MLEC Fiber Internet will become available for more customers. Governor Tim Walz's announcement of $52 million in grants to expand broadband access across Minnesota is a significant step in bridging the digital divide. Administered through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), this initiative is part of the Border-to-Border Broadband Program, which has been providing funding since 2014. The latest round of grants marks the program's 10th funding cycle and will benefit 7,700 homes and businesses.

MLEC was awarded $1.8 million as part of a $4 million project to bring up to 1 Gbps internet speeds to over 420 homes in the Cedar Lake area, west of the City of Aitkin. Aitkin County, committed to working with broadband providers in the county, has also pledged $25,000 towards this project.

Please continue to read the Outlet, Facebook, and our website for more information and updates on our upcoming fiber projects. For more information on MLEC Fiber Internet, call our office at 218-429-0433 or visit our website at www.mlecmn.net/fiber. Project area maps, Internet plans, and service agreements can all be found online.