Innovative Technology Program 

The Innovative Technology Program was established under the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) with a dedicated funding of two million dollars annually. This program reflects Kansas' strategic response to feedback gathered during 2019 public consultation meetings, which emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the state's transportation infrastructure. The program is designed to support projects that integrate novel technological solutions, improve transportation safety, and extend the impact of state funding, especially in both rural and urban settings. The primary objective of the Innovative Technology Program is to offer financial assistance for technology-driven projects that enhance safety, access, mobility, and introduce new transportation technologies. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear transportation benefits and focus on innovative technologies not currently utilized in the applicant’s local community. Projects that align with other KDOT goals, including economic development or business attraction, may receive priority consideration. Importantly, this program excludes projects that are already eligible for other KDOT funding streams and does not support basic road construction or common infrastructure like fiber optic installations. Each fiscal year, the program provides a total of $2 million, with a maximum award of $1 million per project. Funding is strictly on a reimbursement basis, and awardees must provide a minimum of 25 percent of the total project cost from non-state cash sources. Non-cash matches are not accepted, and higher match commitments can improve the project's evaluation score. Eligibility for the program includes local units of government, and non-government entities partnering with a local government may also apply. Educational institutions are eligible to apply independently. The scope of acceptable projects is broad, including roadway (state and non-state), rail, aviation, public transit, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, unmanned aerial systems, and software or infrastructure technologies related to transportation. The 2024 application window for the Innovative Technology Program opens on August 1 and closes on November 30. Prior to submitting a full application, a Project Concept Form must be submitted for review. Upon approval of the concept, applicants will receive an application form, which must be submitted in full and as a single PDF document via email by the final deadline. Selections will be made by a committee that considers alignment with program goals, geographic distribution, and other outlined criteria. Award announcements are expected by December 31, 2024. For more information or to submit applications, applicants can contact Matt Stormer, the Innovative Technologies Manager at the Bureau of Innovative Technologies, via phone at 785-296-0937 or email at Matt.Stormer@ks.gov.

Additional consideration is given to projects that exceed the minimum match requirement and those supporting economic growth or aligned with existing KDOT projects.