Surf Internet expands fiber broadband reach with MiSignal fiber acquisition

Surf Internet, a fiber internet service provider serving Michigan's Great Lakes region, has acquired Howell-based MiSignal's fiber network assets. Having made investments in Livingston County, Michigan, the purchase of MiSignal's fiber broadband network will expand those efforts.

But acquiring MiSignal is just one element of Surf's expansion plans.

The company plans to invest an additional $20 million in Livingston County over the next three years to expand its fiber network, reaching over 18,000 rural households. MiSignal is an eastern Michigan fiber internet service provider offering symmetrical gigabit internet speeds to residential and commercial customers.

"At Surf Internet, we believe that broadband is one of the greatest equalizers of our time, delivering access to the same internet-based services to all people regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic status," said Gene Crusie, CEO of Surf Internet. "We are very excited to join forces with Josh Rowe and the MiSignal team. While our networks are already connected in multiple locations, the inspiring thing for us is the transformative potential of Surf and MiSignal to bridge the digital divide in Livingston County."

Focus on consistency

While the companies combine their assets, Surf intends to keep the support team and customer experience consistent.

All MiSignal team members are joining the Surf Internet team as part of the acquisition. MiSignal's business phone system services and customers are not a part of the acquisition and will continue to operate under the MiSignal name.

Customers will also benefit.

MiSignal's internet service and residential voice customers will continue to receive the exact pricing, products, and customer support they have come to know. In addition, Surf Internet will continue to operate and maintain MiSignal's East Michigan office in Howell. Customers will have access to new products and improved network management capabilities, as well as Surf's expanded customer service capabilities.

"We have worked closely with Surf Internet for many years, and it became obvious that both teams have the same core values," said Josh Rowe, CEO of MiSignal. "We are each passionate about outstanding customer experience and a strong desire to bring affordable fiber-optic broadband to our communities."

Serving the underserved

Surf Internet provides fiber-based broadband to residential subscribers, businesses, educational institutions, and municipalities across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan.

In 2021, Surf was acquired by Bain Capital and Post Road Group to capitalize on attractive growth opportunities in the region while strengthening its commitment to bridge the digital divide across the Midwest in underserved, rural communities.

Over the last two years, Surf has enhanced its executive leadership team, completed an extensive rebranding, and secured grants with local municipalities to expand broadband access in the Great Lakes region. Surf now serves over 29,000 customers across 45 markets.