North Carolina Launched Satellite Resiliency Grant
The state released $1 million to provide emergency satellite connectivity for rural and disaster-hit areas.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Telecommunications
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The North Carolina Department of Information Technology has introduced a $1 million grant program to fund satellite internet equipment for essential organizations. The initiative aims to maintain critical communications in regions impacted by natural disasters.
Why it matters
The program addresses the vulnerability of communication networks during emergencies, a problem underscored by the widespread outages caused by Hurricane Helene. It seeks to ensure that key services remain connected even when terrestrial infrastructure fails.
The grant program provides $1 million in total funding for satellite equipment and installation. Priority for the resources is currently assigned to organizations operating within 39 North Carolina counties designated as federal disaster areas.
The players
North Carolina Department of Information Technology
This is the state agency responsible for managing information technology services and infrastructure across North Carolina.
The details
Eligible entities, including state agencies, local governments, volunteer fire departments, and community anchor institutions, can apply for satellite resilience tools. Applicants must submit the NCDIT Application and Certification Form to receive funding sourced from the Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology program.
Timeline
September 23, 2026 is the deadline to submit the Application and Certification Form.
Roadmap
This program marks a strategic pivot toward decentralized satellite technology as a necessary backup for traditional telecommunications. It follows the broader industry move to harden infrastructure against climate-related disasters by reducing reliance on fixed-line networks.
Local residents in disaster-prone areas will benefit from improved emergency response capabilities when terrestrial networks fail during severe weather. Organizations like volunteer fire departments will gain new access to reliable satellite backups to maintain public safety communications.
The takeaway
Reliable communication is an essential utility for public safety during increasingly frequent natural disasters. Organizations in vulnerable regions should prioritize these upgrades to prevent total service loss during future emergencies.
What happens next
The application window for the grant program closes on September 23, 2026, after which the state will begin the review and award process.
Further reading
For additional context on digital infrastructure efforts, visit North Carolina Telecommunications.
More information
Eligible organizations can apply or review guidelines on the Broadband Satellite Resiliency Grant program page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Smoky Mountain News.
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