Michigan Broadband Services, a subsidiary of MachTen Inc., agreed to acquire substantially all assets of Northern Michigan University’s Educational Access Network for $21 million.
The transaction includes licensed 2.5 GHz Educational Broadband Service spectrum covering portions of 41 counties, Nokia AirScale radio equipment deployed across more than 70 tower sites, and licensed microwave facilities with related infrastructure. The Educational Access Network generates about $2.5 million in annual revenue and serves 7,500 subscribers.
Michigan Broadband currently operates a fiber network spanning over 2,500 miles across northern Michigan. The company intends to upgrade the acquired network from 4G LTE to 5G, expand fiber and microwave backhaul, and increase speed, capacity, and geographic coverage. Strategic wholesale partnerships are also under consideration to offer mobile voice and data services alongside existing fixed broadband, fiber, and enterprise offerings.
Northern Michigan University students and faculty will retain cost-free access to the network. Funding for the deal will come from federal BEAD grant proceeds and financing provided by the National Cooperative Services Corporation.
The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, third-party consents, and compliance with federal funding-program requirements.
