By Trish Svoboda
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland unveiled the availability of $10 million aimed at improving broadband infrastructure across the state through the Broadband Acceleration Grant program. These grants, funded under the program, aim to alleviate the capital expenses required for deployment in underserved regions.
Currently in its fourth year under the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program is dedicated to delivering high-quality, dependable broadband access statewide. Its primary focus is on unserved regions, economically disadvantaged communities, and areas with pressing connectivity needs.
“Empowering communities through broadband infrastructure buildout allows Kansas to lean into our innovative spirit as we grow businesses, keep talent here, and pursue new opportunities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The IKE program is a great example of how state agencies, local communities, and the private sector provide high-speed internet to all Kansans.”
In the first three years of this program, 8,000 homes and businesses in 25 counties received high-speed internet. The initial $15 million resulted in an additional $17.5 million in matching funds.
Highlights for the fourth round of the Broadband Acceleration Grant program include:
· Applicants can request a maximum grant funding of $1 million.
· The program requires a qualifying speed of 100/20 Megabits Per Second (Mbps).
· Projects must secure 50% matching funds, with the option of up to 50% of the required match being fulfilled through in-kind contributions.
· Co-investment is mandatory from sources other than the applicant.
The application window extends from January 29 to March 11. The Office of Broadband Development will host a kickoff webinar on Monday, January 29, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. To learn more about the program, register for the webinar, or submit an application for the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program click here.
