AIR KS Offers Grant Funding to Advance UAS and BVLOS Operations in Kansas

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Air Innovation Range in Kansas (AIR KS) program, a one-time grant opportunity totaling $2 million to enhance and support Kansas-based Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) test ranges and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The program is designed to strengthen testing and innovation by expanding infrastructure and operational capabilities, accelerating commercialization, and spurring continued economic development.

“Aerospace isn’t just a cornerstone of our state’s economy — it’s foundational to the bold, innovative future we’re building here in Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By providing strategic support for Kansas innovators and infrastructure alike, we’re accelerating UAS growth and further establishing the Sunflower State as a place where every kind of aviation soars.”

The funding will help reduce financial barriers that have hindered industry growth and economic development opportunities. The one-time grant award will support:

• Expanding BVLOS navigation infrastructure and operational capabilities
• Increasing commercial and public-sector research and industry utilization
• Accelerating commercialization and attracting investment in agriculture, rural healthcare, defense and emerging technologies
• Strengthening public-private partnerships and the broader BVLOS ecosystem in Kansas
• Supporting long-term operations, maintenance and growth of UAS test ranges in Kansas

Awarded funds can be used to improve navigation infrastructure, technology systems, operational capabilities, software enhancements, professional services, equipment, infrastructure, travel or project management costs.

Eligible applicants are airport authorities, airport sponsors, municipalities, counties, governmental entities, private companies, nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, tribal governments or partnerships among these organizations that possess the technical, managerial and financial capabilities to successfully perform the work needed for the project(s).

The work must be completed within eight months of receiving the funds. Funding will be distributed in two installments, with half provided at the time of the award and the remaining amount delivered once the project has reached at least 50% completion.

The application window opened today and will close November 22. Awardees will be announced in December.

To learn more about the AIR KS program guidelines or to begin the application process, visit the AIR KS webpage here.

For questions regarding the application, contact Rebecca Campbell by email here.