HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) has announced the commencement of its first round of applications for the $1.16 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This initiative, backed by federal funding, marks a major step towards providing access to affordable, high-speed internet across unserved and underserved areas of the Commonwealth by the end of the decade. Applications will be accepted from November 22, 2024, through January 21, 2025.
The BEAD Program, part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, aims to close the digital divide by equipping communities with the resources necessary to construct broadband networks and improve connectivity. Pennsylvania becomes one of the first ten states in the nation to accept applications under this program, highlighting its commitment to ensuring equitable access to digital infrastructure.
“My Administration is moving quickly to solicit applications and drive out this historic funding so we can extend access to high-speed, affordable internet all across our Commonwealth by the end of this decade,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “Ensuring every Pennsylvanian can connect to the internet is critical for students who want to learn, patients in rural communities who want to see their doctor, and small business owners who want to find new customers and succeed in Pennsylvania. We’re committed to closing the digital divide in the Commonwealth, and this is another significant step forward in creating real opportunity for all Pennsylvanians.”
Application Process and Eligible Entities
The BEAD Program will follow federal guidelines, with two 60-day application periods for eligible entities to submit proposals. Applicants include internet service providers registered through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC); municipalities or local government units; nonprofit organizations; cooperative organizations; private companies; public-private partnerships; public or private utility companies; and public utility districts.
Funding can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as constructing broadband infrastructure, making physical improvements, upgrading network software, long-term leasing of facilities, and workforce development. Eligible projects must contribute a 25 percent match to the total project cost. The absence of both minimum and maximum grant amounts is intended to offer flexibility for projects of various scales.
The PBDA is collaborating with local governments, state and federal officials, private companies, and other stakeholders to design a program that accommodates both large-scale infrastructure projects and community-level initiatives. Executive Director Brandon Carson emphasized the program’s importance in addressing long-standing inequities in internet access.
“We’ve worked closely with local government leaders, state and federal officials, industry representatives, and other stakeholders to design this program, and we’re excited to launch it,” Carson stated. “For far too long communities lacking internet access have had to make difficult decisions about how to educate their children, where they’re able to work, or how to get their medical care. We have the funding needed and are ready to invest in a variety of technologies and networks of all sizes to provide high-speed internet to all corners of the Commonwealth.”
Future Steps and Broader Initiative
Following the completion of the two application periods, the PBDA will evaluate proposals and announce its final selections, which will then be open for public comment for 30 days prior to submission to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Final awards are expected to be approved by the NTIA and announced in late 2025.
“Congratulations to Executive Director Carson and the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority for reaching this important milestone,” said Evan Feinman, Director of NTIA’s BEAD Program. “The people of Pennsylvania deserve access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service. Starting the selection of the providers that will build those networks brings the Commonwealth one step closer to making it a reality.”
The BEAD Program is part of a larger financial commitment to broadband connectivity in the state. Beyond the $1.16 billion allocated through BEAD, Pennsylvania has recently distributed $45 million in Multi-Purpose Community Facilities grants to 49 projects in 26 counties. These initiatives focus on providing internet access in community hubs such as schools, libraries, and health centers. Additionally, $204.1 million from the federal Broadband Infrastructure Program (BIP) has been designated for broadband expansion to benefit approximately 100,000 residents in 42 counties, with $20 million allotted for technology device distribution to underserved communities.
A Vision for Statewide Connectivity
The Shapiro Administration’s vision for Pennsylvania’s broadband future is one of equity and innovation, with a focus on enabling opportunities in education, healthcare, business, and beyond. By combining federal and state resources, the initiative aims to secure meaningful, long-lasting improvements in digital access for residents across both rural and urban areas.
“Our goal is not just to expand broadband access but to fundamentally transform Pennsylvania’s digital landscape,” Carson noted. “These investments will ensure that our communities are not left behind in an increasingly connected world.”
With the launch of its first application window, Pennsylvania continues to make strides toward universal high-speed internet—a critical step in building stronger, more inclusive communities for years to come.
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