Source: Press Release, 10/1/10

Gov. Bev Perdue announced Wednesday that North Carolina will receive $4.5 million in federal recovery funds to support the development of broadband access and economic development across North Carolina. The funding goes to the e-NC Authority, a state initiative to expand broadband access throughout North Carolina, especially in rural areas. The $4.5 million grant is matched by an additional $1 million, including $400,000 from the Golden Leaf Foundation, for a total $5.5 million investment.

“Broadband access is a critical component for economic development in North Carolina – in particular in rural areas,” said Gov. Perdue.  “These funds will help continue the work of the e-NC Authority to expand the reach of high-speed Internet and, in turn, boost local economies.”

Since January, North Carolina has received $275 million in federal recovery awards for expanding access to broadband.

The funds announced will enable the e-NC Authority to continue its statewide mapping of broadband availability for four more years, continuing the work started by a previous federal grant.