TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday a $2.3 million investment in digital skills training and workforce readiness programs that will target nearly 50,000 Kansans. Through the Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development will partner with 13 organizations to ensure residents can maximize what the availability of high-speed internet across the state has to offer. 

“Community organizations across Kansas will use this funding to create immediate opportunities for those aiming to increase digital skills and knowledge,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The DOCK program reinforces my administration’s commitment to empowering Kansans and meeting the evolving needs of today’s workforce.”  

The DOCK program expands access to necessary digital tools and opportunities to upskill the workforce. Examples of what various organizations intend to deliver in their communities include:     

• Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas will create a pilot digital literacy program to address the area’s documented need for digital opportunity and extend access to critical digital education.   

• Tree Top Security in northwest Kansas will provide cybersecurity and digital skills training to small businesses, empowering them to protect data, prevent cyber threats, and enhance their operations using modern digital tools.  

• Eagle Nest’s “Digital Skills Launching Pad” will offer digital literacy training to justice-involved women, survivors of domestic violence, and women facing generational poverty in Cowley County. Training will focus on skills such as online safety, job readiness, and internet navigation.   

• The Liberal Area Coalition for Families in southwest Kansas will educate parents on digital safety in order to prepare children for a digital world. Parents will gain crucial skills to monitor their children’s online activities and ensure safe internet use, promoting better family communication and involvement in their children’s education.  

“In today’s economy, workforce development starts with access to digital tools and training,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “Investing in workforce readiness means ensuring that people have the training to use technology effectively — whether they’re applying for jobs, launching businesses, or advancing their careers.”   

The Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) received applications from non/for profit organizations, municipalities, universities, and more. The awards will impact all Kansas counties, expanding digital opportunities and job readiness opportunities statewide.   

To view the DOCK awardees or to learn more about the DOCK program, click here.