Governor Josh Stein announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved North Carolina’s proposal to expand high-speed internet access through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This approval allows the state to move forward with awarding more than $300 million from its $1.53 billion BEAD allocation for projects aimed at providing high-speed internet to over 93,000 homes, businesses, and community institutions across North Carolina.
“Reliable high-speed internet opens doors of opportunity,” said Governor Josh Stein. “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.”
NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Teena Piccione stated: “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.”
The state expects these new broadband expansion projects to begin in mid-2026. In addition to this initiative, current efforts funded by $670 million from the American Rescue Plan Act are projected to bring high-speed connectivity to more than 250,000 homes and businesses by the end of 2026.
After allocating this initial round of BEAD funding, North Carolina will still have over $1 billion remaining from its total BEAD allocation. While awaiting further guidance on how these funds may be used, Governor Stein recently wrote to the Secretary of Commerce and NTIA Administrator requesting flexibility in fund usage. In his letter, he outlined possible initiatives including online safety measures and cybersecurity improvements for network protection; workforce development programs focused on artificial intelligence training; strengthening infrastructure resiliency; and addressing barriers that prevent households from accessing broadband—efforts intended to improve telehealth access and skills-building for better health outcomes. These plans aim not only to secure broadband connections but also promote innovation and economic growth as North Carolina prepares for a digital future.
Further information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity, details on the BEAD program, as well as Governor Stein’s strategies for closing the digital divide can be found at ncbroadband.gov.
Approved BEAD program awards are available at ncbroadband.gov/BEADFinalProposal.
