Staff Report Five projects totaling $16.2 million for highspeed internet expansion were officially launched Friday, April 18 in Konawa by the Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) and internet service provider CVEC Fiber.

The projects, funded through $10.8 million in federal grants administered by the OBO coupled with $5.4 million in matching contributions from CVEC Fiber, a subsidiary of Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative, will connect 1,338 homes and businesses with broadband internet using fiber optic technology. The awards were made last year by the Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board.

Friday’s event provides examples of the progress being made statewide to get high-speed internet access to all Oklahomans. CVEC Fiber projects are scheduled in Hughes, Lincoln, McIntosh, Okfuskee, and Seminole counties.

The Seminole County project, which includes Konawa, totals $6.8 million and will connect 872 homes and businesses to highspeed internet. In Konawa, fiber internet access will be built to 522 locations, some 80 percent of the town.

OBO and CVEC Fiber officials, along with local legislators and municipal officials attended the event.

“Today’s launch marks more than the rollout of fiber – it’s the foundation of opportunity, growth, and connection for every corner of Oklahoma. With every mile of broadband we extend, we’re not just closing a digital gap; we’re igniting a future where our communities thrive and prosperity abounds.” said OBO Executive Director Mike Sanders.

“Today’s milestone reflects our mission to Improve Life, Serve Community. Bringing highspeed internet to Konawa and the surrounding areas is about more than just connectivity—it’s about creating opportunities, empowering progress, and ensuring our members have the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital world,” said Gary Highley, CEO of Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative.

Grants of some $500 million were awarded in 2024 by the Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board. When matching funds from the internet service providers building the projects are added, the total investment is more than $750 million.

At least one project is slated to be built in 57 of the state’s 77 counties. Approximately 175 projects have been awarded to provide high-speed access to more than 70,000 homes and businesses.

ISPs are now competing for more than $750 million in additional grant funds through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

With tens of thousands of locations to be served through OBO administered programs, the office is on pace to complete its mission of achieving statewide coverage.