Kansas is looking to invest $10.7 million to help organizations across the state expand access to public Wi-Fi service and connected devices.
The application period is now open for the second round of the state’s Advancing Digital Opportunities to Promote Technology (ADOPT) program.
“Our digital opportunity programs empower Kansans to reach their full potential in work, education, and entrepreneurship,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The ADOPT program provides resources for communities to thrive in a digitally connected economy.”
The governor’s office explained in a press release that ADOPT is built around two key categories:
- Equipment Distribution: the maximum individual award is $500,000 and requires two percent match and one percent co-investment
- Public Wi-Fi: the maximum individual award is capped at $1 million and requires 5 percent match and two percent co-investment
“The ADOPT program has an immediate impact on Kansans. We are able to remove technological barriers and provide tools necessary to navigate today’s digital environment,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through access to devices and public wi-fi, individuals can enhance job skills, participate in telehealth appointments, engage in online learning, and do remote work, furthering their ability to succeed in the future economy.”
For the ADOPT program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Division (KOBD) partners with entities that can procure, distribute, manage, and maintain devices for the equipment distribution component of the program. As part of the program, devices will be provided to individuals who cannot connect to the internet. The governor’s office noted that the program emphasizes long-term loans for computers, laptops, and tablets to ensure sustainable access for qualifying individuals.
For the public Wi-Fi component, the program encourages organizations to form partnerships to deliver solutions in underserved and unserved public spaces, bringing affordable and reliable internet services to areas that lack access.
“KOBD continues to engage with our neighbors while being future-focused on our mission to ensure all Kansans can access digital tools needed to thrive,” Interim Director of Kansas Office of Broadband Development Joseph Le said. “We have been encouraged by the innovative ideas and partnerships developed in the first round of ADOPT, and we expect this second round to continue to propel Kansas forward.”
