INDIANAPOLIS — Thousands of Hoosier homes and businesses are set to receive over $80 million in the latest round of a statewide Broadband grant program.
According to a press release, Gov. Eric Holcomb’s Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program will provide broadband infrastructure to more than 34,000 homes and commercial locations in 54 counties throughout Indiana.
“The first-of-its-kind broadband grant program has connected thousands of Hoosiers in nearly every corner of the state,” Gov. Holcomb said. “It has been a model program that other states have tried to replicate to solve the inequitable technology gap that exists across the country. The program ensures that every resident has access to information which unlocks the door to opportunity and leads to a brighter better-connected future.”
This latest round of funding will include contributions from 17 telecommunications providers and utility companies totaling more than $135 million in matching funds, according to the release. More than $216 million has been counted toward the total investment.
Broadband service providers can apply to receive up to $5 million to expand services into underserved areas when providing a 20% match, the release said.
Since 2018, the state has received more than $426 million in private and local investment. 88 out of Indiana’s 92 counties have received broadband investments as a result of the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program.
“Broadband expansion isn’t just about connecting homes, it’s about connecting Hoosiers to a brighter future,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “Reliable, high-speed internet unlocks opportunities for education, healthcare and jobs, improving the quality of life for all Indiana residents.”
The broadband grant program is part of Gov. Holcomb’s wider Next Level Connections infrastructure program to provide funding opportunities for major highway projects, rural broadband services, more nonstop flight options and rail projects in northwest Indiana. The program was allocated an additional $250 million by the Indiana General Assembly.
