The Rocket Community Fund announced Tuesday a $4.5 million legacy investment for programs benefitting Detroit families and students.
The funding includes $3.5 million to expand affordable high-speed internet access in Detroit public housing communities. Up to 2,400 households, representing about 6,000 residents, will gain reliable internet service through a partnership with DigitalC and the Detroit Housing Commission, officials said.
“Too many families are still forced to navigate school, work, healthcare and everyday life without internet access,” Laura Grannemann, executive director of the Rocket Community Fund and Gilbert Family Foundation, said in a statement. “This investment removes that barrier by ensuring more Detroit residents can get online, stay connected and access opportunities.”
The announcement comes as the Rocket Classic Presented by AlumniFi prepares for its final year. Since its beginning in 2019, the Rocket Classic has donated more than $10 million to Detroit nonprofits and community initiatives, officials said.
The investment builds on a program launched in July 2025 that brought free high-speed internet to 450 families living in Detroit Housing Commission communities. The expanded initiative is expected to reach thousands more residents who have historically lacked access to affordable broadband, officials said.
“Reliable internet access is no longer a convenience, it’s essential infrastructure for participating in today’s economy,” Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield said in a statement. “By expanding internet access and investing in scholarships for Detroit students, Rocket is helping create opportunities that will strengthen our neighborhoods and empower the next generation. We’re grateful for Rocket’s continued partnership and shared commitment to Detroit.”
Rocket’s investment also includes $1 million to establish the Own the Dream Youth Scholarship Fund for Detroit students pursuing college and postsecondary education.
The endowed funds will be managed by the Children’s Foundation of Michigan and provide scholarships for the participants of College, Career & Beyond and First Tee of Greater Detroit, two organizations that increase youth access to golf.
“For the past eight years, Rocket has had the privilege of teaming up with organizations that are helping Detroit students discover their potential and pursue their dreams,” Grannemann said. “The Own the Dream Youth Scholarship Fund is a natural extension of those partnerships, providing students another source of support as they take the next step toward their future.”
cwilliams@detroitnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Rocket Community Fund announces $4.5M legacy investment
Reporting by Candice Williams, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Candice Williams, The Detroit News | USA TODAY Network
