$10 million available in Kansas broadband grant program

Colter Robinson
·2 min read

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Through the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program will provide $10 million in grant funds to underserved areas in Kansas.

The program looks to expand internet access throughout the Sunflower State. The program will prioritize underserved areas, economically distressed communities and areas of need, according to a press release from the Kansas Department of Commerce.

“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.”

Since the start of the program, 8,000 homes have been served high-speed internet in 25 counties across Kansas. According to the press release, $15 million generated another $17.5 million in matching funds.

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“It is important to focus taxpayer resources on projects that provide sustainable economic benefits that help to grow our state and will encourage people to live and do business in Kansas,” Senate President Ty Masterson said. “The IKE program and the Broadband Acceleration Grant accomplishes that by providing high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing the areas that need it the most.”

The fourth round of the program will include:

  • A max grant funding request of $1 million.

  • Qualifying program speeds of 100/20 megabits per second.

  • Require 50% matching funds for the project.

  • Co-investment from a source other than the applicant.

Applications for the program start. Jan. 29 and will run until March 11. A kickoff webinar will be held from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 29. To sign up for the webinar, apply for the program or learn more about the project, click here.

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