In 2018, the Purdue Center for Regional Development completed an impact study focused on rural broadband to help Tipmont’s leadership decide whether we should offer this service. As Ron Holcomb mentions, the study found a 400% rate of return. We already see the results in action!
Because Tipmont stepped up to the challenge and Indiana’s legislators support rural broadband with grant funding, we can level the playing field for our rural service areas. All the benefits the study found — health care, education, agriculture, economic growth — are beginning to materialize.
COVID rapidly accelerated telehealth and education trends that were already in motion. With Wintek fiber internet, more people can visit virtually with their health care providers, or attend classes from the comfort of their home. Even entrepreneurs have started to emerge where just 12 months ago, it wasn’t an option. We’ve captured a few of their stories at ourcommunitystories.com. I encourage you to visit the site and see for yourself.
