#United States #North Carolina #MCNC #HERO Project

A Historic Step for Connectivity in Rural North Carolina

MCNC, a technology non-profit organization that facilitates the North Carolina Research and Education Network (NCREN), recently announced the successful completion of the HERO Project, named 'High Speed Economies for Rural Opportunity.' This landmark initiative, which represents a significant investment of $19 million, aims to enhance high-speed internet access in underserved rural areas of North Carolina.

The story of the HERO Project began on May 16, 2022, when U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo launched the 'Internet for All' initiative in Durham. This federal effort, boasting a budget of $45 billion, seeks to ensure affordable and reliable internet access for all Americans by the end of the decade. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) was tasked with overseeing this program, enabling entities like MCNC to apply for crucial funding.

In September 2022, MCNC sought funding to expand its fiber network by 209 miles through two strategically planned routes: from Albemarle to Winston-Salem and from Sanford to Jacksonville. Out of more than 235 grant applications submitted nationwide, MCNC emerged as the only Research and Education Network in the U.S. to secure individual funding.

By June 16, 2023, MCNC was awarded more than $11 million from the NTIA alongside matching funds from the Golden LEAF Foundation, which granted over $2.6 million. This financial support, complemented by MCNC's own contribution of over $5 million, laid the groundwork for expansion. From August 2023 through June 2024, MCNC engaged in public outreach and storytelling, focusing on the broad impacts of the project across various sectors, including health care, education, and economic development. The project's official construction commenced on September 5, 2024, with a groundbreaking ceremony held at the Central Carolina Community College.

As of June 2026, the HERO Project was fully operational, making a notable addition to MCNC's existing 4,745 miles of fiber network. This expansion is imperative for communities in central and southeastern North Carolina, positively impacting over 350,000 housing units and 696 community anchor institutions. Previous data revealed there were over 16,000 unserved housing units and around 12,000 underserved units in the targeted areas.

MCNC's President and CEO, Tracy Doaks, emphasized this project's significance for expanding broadband access, stating, "Today marks a significant milestone for making high-speed internet affordable and available in North Carolina." The support received from allies like the NTIA and Golden LEAF Foundation showcases a compelling collaboration aimed at economic growth.

Further highlighting the impact of the HERO Project, Tommy Jacobson, MCNC's Vice President and COO, commented on the intrusion into rural areas, asserting, "While municipalities often have options, it's the rural areas between them that face the greatest need for middle-mile infrastructure. By strengthening this foundation, we ensure every community in North Carolina has essential resources to thrive."

Furthermore, North Carolina's Secretary of Information Technology, Nate Denny, weighed in, acknowledging that "High-speed internet is critical for education, health care access, and economic growth. The completion of the HERO Project is a crucial milestone in our efforts to bridge the digital divide."

Conclusion: A Future Connected

The completion of the HERO Project represents a transformative move towards a more connected North Carolina, opening doors for innovation, education, and community growth. As MCNC continues to provide enhanced technology services across all 100 counties, the future looks promising for families and institutions previously without proper broadband access. Through initiatives like the HERO Project, MCNC is leading the way in ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age.