Kansas secures $8.2M for digital equity plans; part of Biden’s ‘Internet for all’ initiative

New grant funding is expected to boost efforts to empower Kansans and Sunflower State communities with the digital tools and skills necessary to meaningfully benefit from high-speed Internet service.

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on Wednesday announced funding pathways for Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, allowing the states access to more than $85.1 million to implement their Digital Equity Plans.

Kansas is expected to receive as much as $8,229,246 to implement key digital equity initiatives.

The funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, is the only member of the Kansas congressional delegation who supported the legislation that authorized the funding.

“This new grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I proudly voted to pass, will help ensure every Kansan has the tools they need to succeed in today’s digital world,” said Davids. “Whether it’s helping students with homework, supporting small businesses, or connecting rural communities, improving Internet access will strengthen our state and create more opportunities for growth.” 

Kansas’ funding award is expected to be used to:

• Create a pool of funds for a long-term affordability program for Kansas; and 

• Collaborate with partners to create an online digital equity map and dashboard that will help the agency, organizations, and the public to understand progress in closing the digital literacy skills gap. 

The funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda.

“For a variety of reasons, many Americans struggle to use the Internet connection available to them,” the Department of Commerce said in a press release, “For example, some lack the skills to navigate online resources and protect their personal and financial information online; others cannot afford a computer or tablet at home.”

“Quality, affordable high-speed Internet allows families and businesses to thrive in our modern economy,” continued Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, touting the Biden Administration’s digital efforts. “We look forward to working with the states to ensure all residents have the tools and skills to take advantage of quality, affordable high-speed Internet – whether it’s for work, education, health care, or any other essential service.”

The just-announced funding tranche through the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program — which made available more than $800 million for digital equity plans for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Native Entities — is expected to continue beyond the current presidential administration, as dictated by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“The Biden-Harris Administration’s Internet for All initiative will ensure everyone can thrive online through access to devices and digital skills,” said Alan Davidson, assistant secretary of commerce for communications and information and NTIA administrator.