TOPEKA - Governor Laura Kelly announced September 30, 2024 that applications will open on Oct. 21 for the National Telecommunications Information and Administration (NTIA) Internet for All initiative. With the launch of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) will begin taking applications to deploy the $451.7 million allocated to bring high-speed internet to all Kansans.

“My administration is dedicated to making Kansas a top 10 state for broadband by 2030,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Our state continues to build on this critical infrastructure, connecting communities and innovators. This historic investment will have a long-lasting impact across Kansas and continue to support our education, health care, and workforce growth.”

The application window will open after the 21-day project review period, allowing eligible applicants to apply for 403 project areas with 52,343 locations needing high-speed internet. Applications will be scored on their cost-effectiveness, consumer affordability, fair labor practices, technology, speed to deployment, and community engagement.

“This program amplifies the Kelly-Toland administration’s commitment to providing universal broadband coverage to every home, business, farm, and community anchor institution in the state,”?Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through partnerships and community engagement, Kansas is setting the gold standard for the entire country for how to roll out future-proof technologies, improve the lives of its citizens, and stimulate economic growth across every region of the state.”

Key highlights of the BEAD program include:

- Qualifying program speed of 100/20 megabits per second (Mbps)
- Requirement of 25% matching funds (with the option to apply for match waiver via NTIA)
- Consumer affordability

“This is a historic moment for Kansas; we are empowering current and future generations with opportunity through high-speed internet connection,” said Joseph Le, interim director of the Office of Broadband Development. “By leaning into the BEAD process, we continue to unlock and multiply opportunities across the state - and we signal that Kansas is future-ready, right here and right now.” 

Eligible applicants include:

- Local governments
- Tribal governments
- Non-profit organizations
- Those authorized to provide broadband services in the proposed service areas

The project funding rounds will open on Oct. 21 and close on Dec. 5. The Office of Broadband Development will continue to provide technical assistance webinars and engagement opportunities.

For more information about the program, click here. A technical assistance webinar will be scheduled prior to the launch of the portal.