Surf Internet has been named the top-awarded internet service provider in Indiana’s Connectivity Program (ICP) Round 14, securing a $177,600 grant to extend fiber optic service to 37 addresses across 27 counties. The project will be paired with Surf’s own investment to accelerate construction and widen access to rural communities.
The ICP, overseen by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA), partners with providers to cover a portion of the construction costs for homes and businesses in unserved and underserved areas. The Round 14 awards were announced earlier this summer by Lt. Governor Micah Beckwith and OCRA, totaling $628,906 in state funding.
Lieutenant Governor Beckwith highlighted that reliable, high-speed internet supports students with online learning, enables online medical visits, and gives small businesses a boost. He noted that state grants combined with provider matching funds can reach more communities across 27 counties, delivering opportunity directly to Hoosier households and businesses.
Among the 37 round-14 locations, Grayson Yerger, a 14-year-old student from Goshen, wrote Surf Internet asking for fiber access to complete homework and enjoy gaming without interruptions. Surf invited him to be part of Round 14’s application process, turning a personal appeal into a broader community benefit.
Surf’s CEO Gene Crusie said the momentum demonstrates that broadband expansion is about people advocating for their futures, not just technology. The company remains committed to serving rural and hard-to-reach areas, with roughly one-third of Round 14 addresses already connected—well ahead of the nine-month construction timeline.
