RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Nearly 85,000 homes and more than 2,400 businesses in 69 counties across North Carolina are set to gain access to high-speed internet thanks to more than $206 million in GREAT (Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology) grants .
This is the state’s largest round of GREAT scholarship grants to date.
“High-speed Internet access is critical for people to work, learn, access telemedicine and connect,” Governor Cooper said. “Thanks to this significant GREAT grant funding, many more North Carolina families and small business owners will have the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital world.”
Three counties in Cape Fear receive grants, including Bladen, Columbus and Pender County (ATMC Focus Broadband).
“We are pleased to award this unprecedented amount of funding to bring high-speed Internet access to such a large number of residents and businesses across the state,” said NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Jim Weaver. “These funds will go a long way towards closing the digital divide by providing equitable access for both rural and urban communities.”
Additional grants are expected to be announced later this fall, according to the governor’s office.
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