North Carolina is set to experience a significant boost in internet connectivity following the approval of its proposal by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). As part of the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, this green light allows the state to proceed with distributing over $300 million out of its $1.53 billion allocation. This funding aims to expand high-speed internet to more than 93,000 homes, businesses, and community institutions across North Carolina.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the transformative power of broadband, stating, “Reliable high-speed internet opens doors of opportunity. Broadband empowers students to learn, helps businesses grow, supports our health care system, and strengthens our economy. With this additional funding, we’re moving one step closer to connecting every household and community in the state.”
Teena Piccione, the NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, highlighted the strategic efforts of her team, saying, “My team has worked tirelessly to ensure we are using a strategic, data-driven, and technology-neutral approach so we can deliver lasting connectivity solutions for all North Carolinians. This federal approval is a critical step in launching more high-speed internet projects across primarily rural areas to change people’s lives.”
While these BEAD-funded projects are expected to begin in mid-2026, North Carolina is already making strides in broadband expansion. With $670 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, the state plans to connect over 250,000 homes and businesses by the end of 2026.
Following this approval, North Carolina still has more than $1 billion available from its BEAD allocation. Governor Stein has reached out to the Secretary of Commerce and the NTIA Administrator, advocating for flexible use of these funds. His initiatives include online safety, cybersecurity, workforce development, AI training, infrastructure resiliency, and telehealth access improvement. These plans aim to secure broadband connections, foster innovation, and bolster the state’s digital economy.
To learn more about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity, the BEAD program, and efforts to bridge the digital divide in North Carolina, visit ncbroadband.gov.
Approved BEAD program awards can be viewed at ncbroadband.gov/BEADFinalProposal.
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