01 09 2025 Lt. Gov. Crouch, OCRA award more than $378,000 to expand broadband access to 93 locations through the Indiana Connectivity Program

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 9, 2025) - Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs today announced 93 addresses in 19 counties will gain access to high-speed broadband as a result of $378,578 awarded in the 12th round of the Indiana Connectivity Program.

The Indiana Connectivity Program helps Hoosier residents and business owners, often in rural areas, obtain access to reliable broadband by assisting internet providers with the expense of extending its services to underserved locations of Indiana.

"Quick and reliable broadband access is key to quality of life across Indiana," said Lt. Gov. Crouch, Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. "This 12th round of funding takes us another step closer to reaching the goal of every Hoosier having broadband access across the state."

Of the 93 addresses funded in the Indiana Connectivity Program's 12th round, 88 are households and 5 are businesses. Internet providers carrying out the projects are matching $276,869 for a total investment of $655,447. To find a list of providers granted funding, visit in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp.

"Congratulations to the residents and business owners taking advantage of this important program," said OCRA Executive Director Duke Bennett. "Connecting Hoosiers with each other throughout the state and with those around the world is paramount in making progress in Indiana."

The program accepts addresses on a rolling basis. Hoosiers and business owners lacking internet connectivity can communicate their interest by entering their address and information into the Next Level Connections portal at in.gov/ocra/broadband. Submitting location information into the portal does not guarantee extension of service.

Broadband providers must complete their projects within nine months of the contract date. For more information, visit in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp.

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Under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, who serves as Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs' (OCRA) mission is to work with local, state and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to assist communities in shaping and achieving their vision for community and economic de velopment. For more information, visit ocra.in.gov.