Indiana expands broadband map
Through the federal Broadband Equity, Adoption and Deployment program, Indiana received nearly $870 million starting in 2024. Because a map assembled by the Federal Communications Commission dictates where these funds will be invested to extend internet access, Purdue Extension in Indiana set out to ensure the state’s broadband map was as accurate as possible.
Purdue University’s Office of Engagement, Purdue Extension, 4-H youth, Purdue University students and alumni formed a broadband outreach team.
The team communicated with residents across 91 Indiana counties, sharing key resources (like a broadband map and speed test platform) and encouraging residents to check internet speeds so that statewide broadband data could be updated and a state broadband program developed.
Extension personnel delivered presentations and talked with community leaders and members, Extension volunteers, community groups/organizations, Extension partners, Extension board/councils and all 4-H groups. Educators distributed resources by emailing stakeholders and posting on social media. Purdue 4-H’ers, students and alumni helped by spreading the word to their families, friends and classmates.
The team helped residents learn about broadband, validate their address and internet service on the FCC map, apply for the Indiana Connectivity Program, conduct speed tests or report lack of connectivity at their address, and learn about the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Over 920 Purdue Extension events and presentations were conducted reaching 8,300 youth and 51,000 adults. They reached over 38,000 people via email. Their 500 social media posts received over 86,000 hits/likes.
As a result of the broadband speed test and connectivity data collected, a total of 12,537 broadband serviceable locations were added to the map, increasing and strengthening online access across Indiana’s communities.
Purdue Extension | Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds. Photo courtesy of Purdue Extension.
