About the grant

Michigan’s Inclusive Training, Technology and Equity Network (MITTEN) grant is a multi-year initiative designed to bridge the digital divide in Region 5. CMU Rural Health Equity Institute will act as the regional hub for digital inclusion resources and programming. With partners throughout our region, we aim to help residents connect to jobs, education, health care and other essential services online. Supported by a regional digital coordinator and local action teams, we will focus on community-driven programs to meet specific local needs.

Purpose and goals

Data shows significant variations across the region in internet access and computer ownership. For instance, 14.5% of households have no internet subscription at all. Nearly 19% of K-12 students lack reliable home internet. In addition, some communities have limited access to digital resources and skills training. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide by enhancing access to technology and digital skills for all our residents.

The Region 5 collaborative aims to address these gaps by working to:

• Expand digital skills training.
• Increase access to technology.
• Support workforce development.
• Increase access to health care and education.
• Encourage civic engagement.

Implementation timeline

The grant is on a multi-year timeline, running through September 30, 2028. The initial phase focuses on establishing an operational framework, activating leadership and program-specific action teams in health, workforce development, education, and civic engagement, and crafting a comprehensive communications plan.

Following this phase, the collaborative will execute detailed work plans to boost digital access, skills and resources. Key efforts include delivering digital literacy training, supporting telehealth services, enhancing online learning, and promoting awareness of online government resources. Additional information will be added to this website to share updates and track progress.