Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday, December 3rd, that applications will open next week for a second round of the advancing digital opportunities to promote technology program, known as ADAPT. The applications will open on December 12th, with the program providing $10.7 million to organizations working to expand access to public wi-fi and connected devices. There are two parts to the program. The first equipment distribution, seeks entities that can procure, distribute, manage, provide and maintain devices to individuals who cannot connect to the internet. The program emphasizes long-term loans for computers, laptops and tablets to ensure sustainable access for qualifying individuals.
The public wi-fi component encourages organizations to form partnerships to deliver solutions in underserved and unserved public spaces, bringing affordable and reliable internet services to areas that lack access. Kelly says through the ADAPT program, the state is able to remove technological barriers and provide tools necessary to navigate today’s digital environment. This allows all Kansans access to devices and public wi-fi, to enhance job skills, participate in telehealth appointments, engage in online learning, and do remote work, furthering their ability to succeed.
