Governor Kelly Announces $10.4M to Increase Broadband Adoption

Governor Laura Kelly today announced that $10.4 million will be invested in critical broadband initiatives through the Advancing Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (ADOPT) program. The Kansas Office of Broadband Development will partner with 18 organizations across the state to connect Kansans to high-speed internet by making public Wi-Fi accessible and distributing devices in underserved areas.

“Broadband access is a common thread that is central to bringing our communities together and creating spaces for their residents to succeed in today’s digital world,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “From public safety to workforce readiness and online education — these awards will continue to propel Kansans forward.”

The ADOPT program supports organizations working to ensure communities can access public Wi-Fi and the devices needed to participate in today’s technology-driven world.  Awards were made to nonprofits, school districts and internet service providers across Kansas, supporting all counties and creating a sustainable approach to reach as many individuals and communities as possible throughout the state.

“We will continue investing in the broadband infrastructure necessary for Kansans to participate in the digital economy, but our efforts should not – and will not – end there,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By providing tools, resources, training and reliable access to that infrastructure, ADOPT provides targeted support to ensure every single Kansan can invest in their future and advance their own quality of life.”

Examples of ADOPT grant recipients include:

• City of Pratt received $21,737 to provide free public Wi-Fi at Pratt’s two largest and most utilized parks: Green Sports Complex and Lemon Park. It will facilitate the installation of security cameras, enabling the city to support visitors and maintain safe public spaces.
• Emporia Public Library received $48,989 to install five solar-powered Wi-Fi benches in key community locations and expand free public internet access. Benches will be located near spaces supporting mental health services, the recreation center, and a food pantry.
• Independence Community College Library received $300,000 to create a computer loaner program for high school and college students, focusing on supporting economically disadvantaged rural students.
• Prairie Band Pottawatomi Nation received $496,340 to bring Wi-Fi access to the Prairie People’s Park. The park is located within the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Common Lands, a highly rural area in Jackson County, and serves as a community hub for events.
• Russell County USD 407 received $719,565 to provide middle- and high-school students with computers to support academic achievement and improve digital literacy.
• SnapIT Solutions received $751,2237 to provide workforce ready laptops and digital literacy training. Through their seven strategic locations in economically distressed areas, technology resource centers will be established to distribute devices, deliver digital skills training, and offer technical support throughout the state. 
• Southwest Area Agency on Aging received $329,118 to equip seniors across 28 rural counties with technology and digital skills, ensuring they stay connected, independent and empowered in today’s digital world.

“Digital opportunity programs like ADOPT continue to help us bridge the digital divide in Kansas,” Broadband Executive Director Bill Abston said. “These awards recognize the critical need and the opportunities we can enable by funding access to high-speed broadband — truly strengthening our communities and preparing our future generations.” To learn more about the program and other resources, or view the full list of awardees, visit the webpage here.