News and Events

April 6, 2026 – Bismarck, ND: Today, Midco is excited to announce the next phase of its multi-year Fiber Forward initiative to transform its first-in-class network in Bismarck-Mandan and surrounding communities. 

“In 2021, we launched our Fiber Forward commitment to bring next generation fiber connectivity to homes and businesses across North Dakota,” said Midco President and Chief Operating Officer Ben Dold. “More than 23,000 homes and businesses in the community have already been upgraded, and today, we are thrilled to preview the next phase of our network evolution in Bismarck-Mandan. This $9.1 million investment in fiber network upgrades will bring blazing fast symmetrical speeds, low latency, unmatched reliability and rock-solid security to more homes and businesses across the Bismarck area.” 

Transforming Connectivity in and Around Bismarck 

Midco’s investment will fund 4 gigabitpersecond (Gbps) download / 1 Gbps upload internet speeds for over 40,000 homes and businesses in Bismarck-Mandan over the next three years.  

This brings Midco’s total upgrade investment in Bismarck-Mandan to approximately $28.3 million. Planned upgrades will deliver: 

• Faster, more reliable internet speeds to support work-from-home, distance learning, telehealth and advanced cloud applications. 
• Increased network capacity to keep pace with population growth and business expansion in the region. 
• Enhanced service for local organizations, including schools, hospitals and public safety agencies that increasingly depend on strong digital infrastructure. 
• A futureproof network designed to support multigigabit speeds and emerging technologies such as smart city applications and next generation wireless services. 

“Midco’s speed, reliability and value are backed by our 12-point Midco Customer Commitment,” Dold said. “We deliver greater than 99.9% average fiber network uptime and don’t use hidden fees, data caps, contracts or gimmicks. Our Customer Commitment is a true reflection of the culture we have built across more than nine decades of trustworthy service.” 

Strengthening an Enduring Partnership 

As part of its commitment to Bismarck customers, Midco will continue to invest in the community through its foundation grants, free nonprofit public service announcements, sponsorships and community event support. 

“Fulfilling Midco’s Fiber Forward vision is as much about community partnership as it is technological innovation,” said Midco Senior Community Relations Manager and Foundation Executive Director Rhonda Erickson. “The Midco Foundation awarded $144,000 in nonprofit support after our last board meeting, including a $10,000 grant to Dream Center Bismarck and 23 additional grants to incredibly deserving North Dakota nonprofits. We are committed to being a force for good in every community we serve and are honored to partner with some of the most impactful nonprofits in Bismarck.” 

“Expanding high-speed fiber infrastructure is an investment in the future of Bismarck Mandan and the surrounding region and will allow us at the Chamber EDC to continue moving business forward,” said Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC President & CEO Brenda Nagel. “This next phase of the Fiber Forward initiative will strengthen our ability for innovation, supports businesses and enhances quality of life for our residents across the growing communities of Bismarck and Mandan. We are grateful for this commitment by Midco to delivering next generation connectivity to more than 40,000 homes and businesses, and we look forward to the economic impact and opportunities it will unlock.” 

“Bismarck-Mandan is on a growth trajectory, and its technology needs are growing just as fast,” said Midco Senior VP of Operations Steve Mattern. “This $9.1 million investment reflects our commitment to supporting that momentum. Fiber Forward is about delivering world‑class connectivity to every corner of our region, and Bismarck is a key part of that vision.” 

Visit Midco.com/Bismarck to learn more.