Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced applications will open on Oct. 21 for the National Telecommunications Information and Administration Internet for All initiative. With the launch of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development will begin taking applications to deploy the $451.7 million allocated to bring highspeed internet to all Kansans.
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.
Key highlights of the BEAD program include: qualifying program speed of 100/20 megabits per second, requirement of 25% matching funds (with the option to apply for match waiver via NTIA) and consumer affordability.
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, visit https://www.kansascommerce.gov/officeofbroadbanddevelopment/broadband-equity-access-and-deployment/.
PHOTO: Macro Shot with Augmented Reality: IT Administrator Plugs in RJ45 Internet Connector into LAN Router Switch. Cables with Virtual Graphichs Showing Data Transfer. (iStock – gorodenkoff)
