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Access to reliable, high-speed internet is crucial for learning, working, and accessing services online. Unfortunately, many rural residents in Indiana still lack this access. Nearly 1 million Hoosiers are located in areas that are underserved or unserved by internet providers. Efforts are being made at the state level to bridge the digital divide and bring more communities and businesses online.

Locally, it is estimated that over 20,000 locations in Indiana are either underserved or receive no internet service. In Decatur County, about 6,600 residents face underserved or unserved conditions, followed by 3,800 in Ripley County, 4,000 in Jennings County, and 5,600 in Jefferson County.

To address this issue, individuals without reliable internet can report their address and apply to have broadband coverage expanded in their area. The Indiana Connectivity Program allows homeowners and business owners to inform service providers about gaps in coverage that need to be addressed.

To get started, go to the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) website at in.gov/ocra and create an account in the Indiana Next Level Connections portal. Through this account, you can provide details about the service issues you are experiencing. Alternatively, registration can also be done by phone at 833-639-8522 or by mail to the Indiana Broadband Connect Center at the Office of Community and Rural Affairs, 1 N. Capitol Ave., Suite 600, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

Once the information is submitted, broadband providers can submit cost proposals to the state for expanding their services to the identified areas. The state will review these proposals and award contracts to providers offering the lowest costs per Mbps for extending service.

In the most recent funding round, over 0,000 was awarded to expand broadband service in 23 counties across Indiana. This program is a valuable resource, and those in need of better internet service are encouraged to explore it. Efforts to bridge the digital divide will continue, benefiting all residents of Indiana. For further assistance or questions regarding state government, you can contact the Indiana government at [email protected] or call 1-800-382-9841.

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