en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Indiana Broadband Office (IBO) announced the results of Round 17 of the Indiana Connectivity Program, totaling $250,749, to connect 63 locations across 21 counties, including 60 residences and 3 businesses.

The Indiana Connectivity Program aims to reduce the cost of expanding reliable broadband service to underserved or unserved locations throughout the state. Broadband providers awarded funding in this round must complete projects within nine months of contract signing. The IBO releases addresses eligible for service applications to registered providers at least every three months, offering regular opportunities to apply for funding.

The funding awarded to each provider is as follows: Auburn Essential Services received $4,800 for one location, Decatur County REMC received $38,400 for eight locations, Geetingsville Telephone Co. received $4,800 for one location, Johnson County REMC received $9,600 for two locations, Joink Inc. received $34,930 for 11 locations, Mainstream Fiber received $19,019 for 11 locations, Mulberry Telecommunications received $4,800 for one location, PSC Fiber received $57,600 for 12 locations, and Surf Internet received $76,800 for 16 locations.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun stated in a press release that each investment brings reliable, high-speed internet to more families and businesses, connecting education, healthcare, employment, and opportunities, strengthening the economy, and improving quality of life.

As of Round 17, the program has awarded over $14 million, serving more than 3,600 homes, businesses, and community anchor institutions across the state. The previous Round 16 awards (announced in February) totaled $620,503, connecting 165 homes and 7 businesses.