Elkhart-based Surf Internet received a $177,600 grant during the Indiana Connectivity Program’s 14th round.
Surf Internet will use the funds to extend high-speed fiber-optic internet to 37 addresses across Indiana.
The program, managed by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, helps connect homes and businesses in unserved and underserved areas by partnering with internet providers to cover construction costs.
“Reliable high-speed internet helps our kids do homework, allows families to see their doctors online and gives small businesses the boost they need,” Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith said in a press release. “These state grants and matching funds from our providers allow us to give additional access to homes and businesses across 27 counties. This brings opportunity and growth right to every Hoosier's doorstep.”
One of the 37 locations awarded in this round carries particular meaning for the Surf Internet team. Earlier this year, 14-year-old Grayson Yerger from Goshen emailed Surf Internet. Yerger asked the company to consider bringing fiber internet to his home so he could do homework and play video games without constant glitches. His message prompted a personal reply from Surf Internet’s leadership—and a closer look at his neighborhood. Yerger’s home became part of Surf’s Indiana Connectivity Program Round 14 application and award.
“What started as one student’s plea became a project that will now benefit an entire area,” Gene Crusie, Surf Internet CEO, said “These moments remind us that broadband expansion isn’t just about technology—it’s about people advocating for their future. When someone like Grayson speaks up, it gives us a chance to turn a single voice into lasting impact for a whole community. That’s the kind of change we want to keep showing up for.”
Surf Internet encourages Indiana residents without access to high-speed internet to submit their addresses for consideration through the Indiana Connectivity Program. The state accepts submissions on a rolling basis, helping identify homes and businesses that still lack service.
“As long as there are homes still waiting for service, we’ll keep showing up,” Crusie said. “This round may have been small in dollars, but it was big in impact—for over 100 households, and for one teenager in Goshen who decided to speak up.”
