Pennsylvania Approves $793.4M BEAD Grants for Statewide Broadband Access

Pennsylvania is taking decisive steps toward bridging the digital divide with a new initiative aimed at providing state-wide high-speed internet access. This effort marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity across the Commonwealth.

Massive Funding for Statewide Internet Access

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) has provisionally approved $793.4 million in Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) grants. These funds aim to ensure high-speed internet connectivity for every Pennsylvanian, pending final approval from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

A seven-day public comment period will precede the final proposal's submission to the NTIA on September 4, 2025. The plan is to disburse funds by the year's end.

Strategic Vision for Digital Inclusion

Governor Josh Shapiro expressed commitment to swiftly deploying these resources: “My Administration is working to drive out this historic funding as quickly as possible so we can extend access to high-speed, affordable internet all across our Commonwealth by the end of this decade,” he stated. The governor emphasized that connectivity improves health, education, and economic outcomes.

The final BEAD proposal is the culmination of efforts to unlock broadband deployment funding. Though initially granted $1.16 billion, Pennsylvania's cost-effective strategies have maximized the impact of these funds. The deployment will involve technologies such as fiber, hybrid-fiber coaxial, fixed wireless, and satellite.

Community Engagement and Transparency

PBDA Executive Director Brandon Carson highlighted the importance of public participation: “Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for education, health care, and economic opportunity. By posting the proposal for public comment, we’re engaging Pennsylvanians directly in our effort to close the digital divide.”

The full list of provisional selections is available online.

Funding Allocation and Applications

BEAD funds may cover a wide range of improvements, from physical infrastructure to personnel expenses and network upgrades. Projects must meet a 25% matching funds requirement, but there is no cap on grant amounts.

The BEAD initiative aligns with NTIA's Notice of Funding Opportunity and BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice, further supported by Act 96 of 2021.

Progress and Additional Funding

Earlier this year, Governor Shapiro and Carson visited the Cambria County Library to underscore the state's progress in expanding internet access. In addition to BEAD funding, PBDA has approved $45 million in grants for 49 projects, bringing high-speed internet to public facilities.

The Commonwealth has also secured $204.1 million in federal funding through the Broadband Infrastructure Program (BIP), targeting areas with inadequate service. Additionally, $20 million has been allocated to provide technology devices to schools and other organizations.

For updated resources and FAQs about the BEAD program, visit PBDA’s BEAD Program Page.

To explore more about the efforts to bridge the digital gap in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority’s website.