Broadband Acceleration Grant Program 

The Broadband Acceleration Grant Program is administered by the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) under the Kansas Department of Commerce. Created in response to the 2020 legislative session’s broadband modernization funding through the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), this program aims to invest $85 million over ten years to bridge the digital divide in Kansas. The Year 2 grant cycle will provide $5 million in state funding to support high-quality, reliable broadband infrastructure projects in underserved and economically distressed communities. The grant opportunity offers awards of up to $1 million per project, requiring a 50% match from awardees, which can include local ARPA funds or in-kind contributions. Projects must focus on expanding broadband access in unserved areas (those lacking fixed terrestrial 25/3 Mbps service), economically distressed communities, or locations with a compelling need. Additional consideration is given to projects proposed in conjunction with KDOT construction efforts, municipal or county strategic broadband plans, and scalable co-investment partnerships. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions and their entities, corporations, LLCs, partnerships, nonprofits, and any organization authorized to provide broadband under Kansas law. The program excludes areas that have previously received funding through Year 1 of this grant, CERG, USDA ReConnect, NTIA, or FCC RDOF programs. Eligible costs include construction, equipment, and installation of last-mile infrastructure and, where applicable, middle-mile components necessary for last-mile services. Ineligible costs include preconstruction planning, maintenance, indirect labor, or long-term capital assets. Applications require submission of a project proposal, technical project plan, budget documents, and supporting materials such as a service area map and census block identifiers. A public comment period follows application submission to allow stakeholders to voice support or concerns. Finalists must attend an interview, and successful projects must be completed by October 31, 2023, with final closeout by December 30, 2023. Grantees are expected to maintain service levels and pricing for at least three years post-project. Key dates include: the opportunity opened on December 15, 2021, with applications accepted from January 11 to February 11, 2022. Intent to Apply was due by January 14, 2022. Public comment ran from February 16 to March 8, 2022, with applicant responses due March 23 to April 8. Final interviews occurred April 12–15, and awards were announced on May 18, 2022. Applicants seeking more information can contact the Kansas Office of Broadband Development. Program resources, planning guides, and templates are available on the KOBD website.

Engage stakeholders early, prepare detailed maps and data, demonstrate compelling need, and ensure all documentation is complete.