CoreConnect Awarded $90,661,771 in BEAD Grant Funding to Expand High-Speed Broadband in Northwest Pennsylvania

CoreConnect Awarded $90,661,771 in BEAD Grant Funding to Expand High-Speed Broadband in Cameron County and 9 Other Counties Across Northwest PA CoreConnect Awarded $90,661,771 in BEAD Grant Funding to Expand High-Speed Broadband in Northwest Pennsylvania

Empowering Underserved Communities with Future-Proof Digital Infrastructure

Northwest Pennsylvania – February 12, 2026 – On February 9th, 2026 NTIA announced its final approval of the BEAD deployment funds for PA. CoreConnect, a non-profit, open-access broadband organization, has been awarded $90,661,771 from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This significant funding will enable CoreConnect to build and operate essential fiber-optic infrastructure, connecting over 10,327 units across 10 counties, including Cameron County, in Northwest Pennsylvania and bridging the digital divide in rural and underserved areas.

CoreConnect's mission is to ensure every household and institution has access to affordable, high-quality connectivity that supports long-term community growth. This network will enable high-speed broadband, voice and video services, as well as critical applications in healthcare (including HD telehealth), education, workforce development, and community initiatives.

"This BEAD award is a game-changer for Northwest Pennsylvania, allowing us to create foundational infrastructure that will drive economic resilience, digital equity, and innovation for generations," said Tom McKinley, CEO CoreConnect. "By operating as an open-access network, we're fostering competition among service providers to keep costs low for families, while prioritizing community-first outcomes over short-term profits."

By building future-proof infrastructure, CoreConnect is positioning Northwest Pennsylvania to adapt to evolving technologies and needs. The open-access model promotes local economic growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs, ensures rural and low-income households are not left behind, and creates a scalable solution for broadband access done right.

Commissioner James Moate, who has been involved with CoreConnect since Spring of 2024, is excited by this encouraging news.

“This funding will not only provide affordable access to broadband across our region; it will ensure a future where we can remain competitive on a global scale,” said Moate.

CoreConnect's journey to this milestone has been supported by key philanthropic partners committed to bridging the digital divide in rural Pennsylvania. The McElhattan Foundation provided $500,000 to assist in the development of CoreConnect, including feasibility assessments and the grant application process, demonstrating their dedication to fostering sustainable community infrastructure. “We are thrilled to see CoreConnect receive this transformative BEAD award. The McElhattan Foundation believes in CoreConnect’s vision and its ability to deliver lasting digital infrastructure where it’s needed most. For us, this project is not just about broadband—it’s a critical step toward expanding economic opportunity across northwestern Pennsylvania. As an early supporter of this effort, we are proud to stand alongside CoreConnect as they bring connectivity to the communities we care deeply about.” - Gina Evans, Senior Director, McElhattan Foundation

Additionally, The Just Transition Foundation contributed $200,000, bolstering early-stage planning and ensuring the project's alignment with equitable economic transitions for underserved regions.

CoreConnect invites philanthropic partners to explore alignment with their missions and potential roles in grants, program-related investments, or blended structures. This project represents a rare opportunity to leverage $318 million in public and private financing for lasting community impact.

Media Contact: Tom McKinley, CEO CoreConnect Email: mckinleyt@coreconnect.community Phone: 814-488-4450

Website: coreconnect.community