TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday a $2.3 million investment in digital skills training and workforce readiness programs that will target nearly 50,000 Kansans. Through the Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development will partner with 13 organizations to ensure residents can maximize what the availability of high-speed internet across the state has to offer.

The DOCK program expands access to necessary digital tools and opportunities to upskill the workforce. Examples of what various organizations intend to deliver in their communities include:

The Liberal Area Coalition for Families in southwest Kansas will educate parents on digital safety in order to prepare children for a digital world. Parents will gain crucial skills to monitor their children’s online activities and ensure safe internet use, promoting better family communication and involvement in their children’s education. LACF was awarded $225,093.41.

The Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) received applications from non/for profit organizations, municipalities, universities, and more. The awards will impact all Kansas counties, expanding digital opportunities and job readiness opportunities statewide.