Conexon Connect first to receive BEAD funding for Louisiana fiber expansion

Rural broadband provider secures federal grant to accelerate fiber deployment in underserved areas.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Conexon Connect, a leading rural fiber broadband company, has become the first in the nation to receive funding from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program to accelerate the deployment of high-speed fiber internet in Louisiana. The $XX million grant will allow Conexon to expand its fiber network to reach thousands of unserved and underserved homes and businesses across the state.

Why it matters

The BEAD program is a key part of the federal government's efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure all Americans have access to reliable, high-speed broadband. Conexon's selection as the first recipient signals the program's commitment to supporting rural broadband providers in deploying fiber infrastructure to the hardest-to-reach communities.

The details

Conexon will use the BEAD funding to build out its fiber network in targeted areas of Louisiana, connecting homes and businesses that currently lack access to high-speed internet. The company plans to leverage its expertise in rural fiber deployment to efficiently and cost-effectively expand broadband services to these underserved communities.

  • Conexon was selected as the first BEAD program recipient in February 2026.

The players

Conexon Connect

A leading rural fiber broadband provider that specializes in deploying high-speed internet infrastructure to underserved communities.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to be the first company in the nation selected for BEAD funding, which will allow us to accelerate our efforts to bring fiber broadband to more rural Louisiana residents and businesses.”

— Randy Klindt, Co-founder and Partner, Conexon (The Joplin Globe)

What’s next

Conexon plans to begin construction on the new fiber network expansion projects in Louisiana later this year, with the goal of connecting the first customers by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

The BEAD funding award to Conexon Connect demonstrates the federal government's commitment to supporting rural broadband providers in their efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure all Americans have access to high-speed internet, regardless of their location.