Four Steps to Better Broadband in Your Community
Rural areas are often behind their urban counterparts in terms of internet connectivity. Lack of infrastructure and few options means the internet is often slow and expensive–if it exists at all. These are four simple steps which can have a positive impact on improving broadband accessibility in your community.
One PROMOTE
Promote and conduct the Indiana internet speed test.
Helping to provide this data could mean helping yourself and your community in return. The Indiana Broadband Office uses this data to assess which areas have adequate internet access, and which areas they need to prioritize for investment the most.
Visit https://connectingindiana.com/ to take a speed test and view connectivity information for your area on a map.
Two REGISTER
Encourage the underserved to register their address in the Indiana Connectivity Program.
“Underserved” means someone is experiencing internet speeds slower than 25 mpbs download and 3 mpbs upload. They should submit their addresses for a chance to be bid on by an ISP to provide service. If they are not able to register online or need help applying, have them call 463-946-4699. They will be connected directly to a representative.
Three ENGAGE
Engage with your local Broadband Taskforce to find out how you can work together to bring better broadband to your community.
Whether it’s helping to spread information about how to help collect data for BEAD funding, or looking for digital literacy resources, voicing your concerns to this group helps them know what digital resources are needed.
Four ADVOCATE
Use your voice to advocate for more digital literacy resources in your community!
Urge your local governments, non-profits, educational institutions, and economic development organizations to include digital inclusion in their community development strategies.
