Meta Platforms has agreed to pay Corning up to $6 billion over the coming years to supply fiber-optic cables for its growing network of AI data centers, the companies announced.
Under the deal, Corning will provide advanced optical fiber, cable, and connectivity products while expanding its manufacturing operations in North Carolina, where Meta will serve as the anchor customer at Corning’s Hickory cable facility. The agreement runs through 2030, according to reports.
The partnership reflects surging demand for high-performance optical connectivity, a critical component for handling the massive computing and data-transfer needs of AI data centers. That demand has helped drive a sharp rise in Corning’s shares, which jumped again following news of the deal.
Meta’s investment comes as the company accelerates spending on AI infrastructure and domestic manufacturing, committing hundreds of billions of dollars to U.S. data centers, jobs, and supplier partnerships. The agreement is also expected to boost Corning’s workforce in North Carolina, supporting thousands of jobs as it ramps up production for Big Tech customers.