Kansas Diversity Equity and Inclusion Grants

The Devices Grants program, supported by the KC Digital Inclusion Fund (DIF), aims to bridge the digital divide by providing essential devices like computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This initiative directly aligns with the DIF's broader mission to advance a systemic strategy for digital equity, fill programmatic gaps, attract new funding, and strengthen Kansas City’s competitiveness for state and federal dollars. The program emphasizes supporting user interface devices to overcome technology barriers, rather than focusing on connectivity infrastructure or data plans. The target beneficiaries for this grant are individuals in need within the 9-county Greater Kansas City region, encompassing Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte, and Ray counties in Missouri, and Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami, and Wyandotte counties in Kansas. The program specifically targets populations with limited access to technology and digital resources, aiming to empower them to access the internet and enhance their digital literacy. The impact goals include increasing access to technology for underserved communities, improving digital literacy, and fostering better internet connectivity solutions. The funding priorities for Devices Grants are centered around projects that provide access to technology, offer digital literacy training, and implement internet connectivity solutions. Priority is given to projects that are aligned with a specific program, rather than just an organization or population, and that help outcome-oriented direct-service organizations fulfill their mission by overcoming technology barriers. The core focus area is "Access to Network." Eligible applicants are direct-serving 501(c)(3) public charities, educational or governmental entities serving people in need within the specified 9-county region. While the grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000, the available funding is up to $75,000 with an award range of $1,000 to $20,000. The grant period is up to 6 months, with all projects expected to be completed by March 31, 2025. Grantees are notified of award status via email around August 26, 2024. The expected outcomes are that recipient organizations will be better equipped to serve their communities by providing necessary devices, ultimately leading to increased digital inclusion and improved access to digital resources for vulnerable populations.

This program provides funding to support community events that promote cultural and economic development in Lawrence, Kansas, enhancing the city's unique identity.

This funding opportunity supports coalitions of organizations in the Kansas City region working together to create lasting solutions that improve economic mobility for local residents.

This grant provides financial support to independently owned legacy businesses along the historic Route 66 corridor, focusing on preservation projects that enhance visibility and sustainability, particularly for underrepresented communities.

This initiative provides up to $5,000 in unrestricted funds to nonprofit organizations serving Black, Brown, immigrant, refugee, and rural populations in Kansas and Missouri, with a focus on advancing health equity through accessible healthcare services.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and tribal governments in Colorado, Utah, and Western Kansas that are working to improve health outcomes and promote social justice for underserved communities through innovative and collaborative initiatives.

This funding opportunity supports community-focused projects in the Greater Kansas City area that promote racial equity, improve quality of life, and demonstrate sustainable program design and measurable impact.

This funding initiative supports arts-related projects in Lawrence, Kansas, that promote community engagement, diversity, and sustainability, benefiting local artists and organizations.

This funding initiative provides financial support for artistic projects that enhance cultural experiences and community engagement in Topeka, prioritizing local artists and organizations while also welcoming projects that benefit the city's residents.

This grant provides financial support to early-career filmmakers in the Kansas City area for the production of new short narrative films, with a focus on projects that promote diversity and highlight the local community.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit and for-profit organizations for projects that create and improve affordable housing options in Lawrence.

This program provides funding to artists and nonprofit organizations in six states to create and present innovative new works that engage the public and serve underserved communities.

This program provides financial support to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, and bars to help them thrive and recover from challenges.

This grant provides financial support to local screenwriters in the Kansas City area for original scripts that emphasize regional stories and themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

This funding opportunity provides $35,000 to established community-based organizations in Kansas to develop strategic plans aimed at preventing substance use and promoting behavioral health within their communities.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and institutions in Saline County, Kansas, to support programs that empower women, promote family well-being, and combat racism.

This grant provides funding to various organizations in north-central and northwest Kansas for projects that enhance community life in areas like education, health care, and the arts, with a focus on community involvement.

This funding opportunity supports innovative projects that engage rural residents of all ages in Kansas and western Missouri, fostering community participation and strengthening local ties.

This program provides federal funding to cities, counties, tribes, nonprofits, and private entities in Kansas to develop electric vehicle charging stations along major highways, promoting sustainable transportation and community investment.

This funding opportunity supports rural communities in Kansas and western Missouri by providing resources for programs that engage youth in leadership, volunteerism, and the arts, helping them become active contributors to their communities.