Who We Are

CoreConnect is a community-based coalition comprised of individuals with backgrounds in county planning, economic development, community development, broadband and information technologies.

The CoreConnect Team was created in response to the objectives outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), completed by The Northwest Commission in 2021 and adopted in June of 2022. The Northwest Commission proposed convening community members, economic development partners, private sector information technology business owners and other stakeholders in groups known as “Action Teams”, to address the recommendations outlined in the CEDS. The Broadband Action Team was created in 2022 to strategize how to address the broadband disparities in Northwest Pennsylvania. The Action Team met monthly from January of 2022 to April 2024.  

In April 2024, the Broadband Action Team successfully convened representatives from eight counties in Northwest Pennsylvania to explore the potential benefits of the upcoming BEAD funding opportunity. To support this initiative, Design Nine conducted a comprehensive study aimed at conceptualizing the design of a high-speed broadband network across the region.

The findings of this study were presented during a follow-up meeting facilitated by The Northwest Commission on August 2nd, where Design Nine shared their insights. Additionally, The Northwest Commission assisted in coalescing individuals with backgrounds in county planning, economic development, community development, broadband and information technologies to pursue grant funding. This group decided to establish a non-profit to address the digital equity needs of our region. CoreConnect, was born and reflects a unified commitment to enhancing broadband access in our community.