This Month's Latest Tech News in Topeka, KS - Saturday May 31st 2025 Edition

April 2025 marks a transformative period for Topeka's tech scene, defined by major policy decisions, AI advancements, and civic-minded innovation. Kansas officially reclassified broadband as critical infrastructure, signaling a strategic push to close the digital divide and support both urban and rural communities (Kansas reclassifies broadband as critical infrastructure).

On the digital front, sweeping updates to statewide IT and cybersecurity standards are now underway, prompted by Senate Bill 291's IT Integration Project, which will guide agencies in security and data management through October 2025, as shown in the project's comprehensive milestones and expanding policy framework (Kansas IT Integration Assessment and ITEC Policies & Standards).

Topeka is also navigating shifts in federal energy policy, including setbacks for EV infrastructure and changing USPS fleet plans, which have spurred local discussions about public-private collaboration for sustaining tech growth and clean energy adoption.

As these developments intersect, Topeka is positioned at the forefront of statewide efforts to secure data, modernize essential services, and balance innovation with inclusive access.

Kansas has redefined its digital landscape by officially classifying broadband as critical infrastructure under new legislation signed by Governor Laura Kelly.

This move, enacted through House Bill 2061, extends vital legal protections to broadband and telecommunication systems - ranging from aboveground and belowground cables and wires to wireless towers and antennas - aiming to deter disruptions and ensure the reliability of high-speed internet for residents and businesses.

The new law, effective April 10, 2025, significantly increases penalties for trespassing on or damaging these facilities, elevating aggravated interference to felony charges with escalating consequences depending on intent.

As Governor Kelly emphasized,

“By classifying broadband cables and wires as critical infrastructure, we are taking steps to deter tampering with these essential materials to ensure that Kansans' internet service is not disrupted.”

This legislative update not only prioritizes the deterrence of tampering but also aligns Kansas with other states that recognize the paramount importance of internet access for economic growth, health care, and education.

Ongoing and future broadband projects, buoyed by a recent $451.7 million federal investment, are now positioned to operate under stronger protections and accountability, as detailed by the Office of Broadband Development.

For more details about the bill's statewide significance and legal ramifications, see the in-depth report on Kansas' broadband reclassification as critical infrastructure, and further coverage of the law's implementation and penalties on Broadband Breakfast.

Kansas has allocated $10 million in state funding to help school districts adopt AI-powered gun detection systems, with the majority of funds directed toward ZeroEyes, a technology that layers over existing security cameras to spot visible firearms and alert authorities within seconds.

While ZeroEyes touts rapid detection - processing thousands of images per second and providing verified alerts in as little as 3–5 seconds - a number of experts and lawmakers highlight ongoing concerns, including the risk of false alarms, cost, and legislative restrictions that effectively exclude competing vendors.

For example, state requirements - such as patented U.S. technology and Department of Homeland Security's anti-terrorism designation - mean only ZeroEyes currently qualifies for state matching grants, as detailed in a Kansas Reflector analysis of the bill's vendor criteria.

These exclusive provisions - and ZeroEyes' active role lobbying legislators - have attracted criticism from school safety advocates and other AI security companies who argue such measures stifle competition and strain already-tight school budgets, as examined by StateScoop's report on market impact and school district spending.

Despite this, the system's supporters believe technology adds a valuable “layer of protection,” and many districts are considering implementation alongside grants, fundraising, or direct assistance from ZeroEyes' school safety fund.

The debate underscores a broader conversation about how best to balance innovative security solutions with transparency, privacy, and a holistic approach to school safety - a point highlighted in detailed coverage by The Beacon.

Below, sample pricing from recent contracts illustrates the financial landscape:

“We've gone out of our way to make sure that we do this one thing and that one thing the best in the world.” – Sam Alaimo, co-founder of ZeroEyes

Topeka's Frito-Lay fleet is set to play a prominent role in the North American Council for Freight Efficiency's (NACFE) 2025 “Run on Less – Messy Middle” demonstration, operating a Volvo VNL sleeper tractor equipped with an Optimus Technologies system running on B99 biodiesel.

This three-week event, beginning September 8, 2025, will showcase how 13 diverse fleets are advancing decarbonization in long-haul trucking using a spectrum of powertrain solutions, including diesel, biodiesel, natural gas, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cells.

NACFE Executive Director Mike Roeth describes this pivotal stage as

“a time when fleets can choose from a variety of powertrain solutions and other efficiency enhancing technologies,”

emphasizing the industry's transition to reduced emissions through real-world data and fleet engagement.

Notably, biodiesel solutions like those used by Frito-Lay are highlighted for offering cleaner alternatives without compromising performance or voiding OEM warranties, reflecting a national trend toward cleaner fleet operations as B99 biodiesel adoption expands across the Midwest with new fueling infrastructure.

For a closer look at participating fleets and their selected technologies, see the official NACFE announcement.

More event details, live streaming data, and fleet profiles will be available throughout September at the Run on Less website.

A new wave of anti-China technology legislation has reached Kansas, as part of a broader national movement that has seen at least 240 proposals introduced across 41 states in 2025, largely from GOP-controlled legislatures.

In Topeka, lawmakers passed the Kansas Land and Military Installation Protection Act, which prohibits entities from countries like China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela from acquiring nonresidential property within 100 miles of military installations, and mandates divestment for current owners unless exempted by federal clearance.

Kansas also joined states such as Texas and Georgia in considering bans on Chinese AI models like DeepSeek-R1 on state government devices, reflecting rising concern about cybersecurity and national security threats posed by foreign technology.

Measures target areas from government tech procurement to public pension investments and AI use, with the intent to reduce exposure to Chinese influence and data risks.

The debate in Kansas has been heated, as exemplified by Sen. Jeff Longbine's critique:

“There is nothing constitutional about this bill. You cannot take legally owned land away from somebody. This is so unconstitutional that we're going to bribe the affected party by paying them back their losses.”

Despite controversy - including a gubernatorial veto on a similar land restrictions bill targeting a $95M Johnson County Chinese-owned plant - supporters argue that the state must act alongside federal efforts to safeguard local assets and infrastructure.

To better understand the legislative landscape driving these changes, read detailed coverage on the scope and political context in the Associated Press report on anti-China proposals nationwide, an analysis of Kansas's recent land ownership ban and its constitutional debate from Kansas Reflector's coverage of the land ownership ban, and how Kansas is addressing risks in artificial intelligence with proposed bans on foreign AI models as outlined by Inside Government Contracts' AI risk analysis.

Uwazi.AI, founded by Mychal Shaw and recently selected for the LaunchKC Social Venture Studio cohort, is making civic engagement more accessible by leveraging artificial intelligence to simplify ballot language and empower informed voting in Topeka and surrounding communities.

The AI-driven platform not only demystifies complex ballots for voters but also equips nonprofits and civic groups with tools for event management, volunteer engagement, and measuring community impact, a mission recognized by the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City for fostering a more inclusive innovation ecosystem.

As investment in AI surges - global VC funding in the sector hit over $100 billion in 2024, with strategic programs like Google's AI Futures Fund and EDCKC's Social Venture Studio highlights offering startups early access to next-generation models and hands-on expertise - Uwazi.AI rides a robust wave of growth and trust in AI solutions that directly address social needs.

This momentum aligns with the national spotlight on AI-driven ventures, where more than 60% of recent digital health funding and several new unicorns are attributed to AI startups, reflecting a shift toward tangible, community-facing applications (AI funding trends in digital health).

Looking ahead, programs like Uwazi.AI are especially timely given mounting concerns over election misinformation and the urgent need for technologies that build trust, transparency, and civic participation (AI's role in safeguarding elections).

Tribal Tech Innovations is at the forefront of addressing water insecurity in Kansas and beyond by leveraging significant funding opportunities and groundbreaking technologies.

The Biden-Harris administration recently allocated nearly $33 million in water infrastructure funding to Kansas, prioritizing disadvantaged and rural communities, with a focus on modernization, contamination mitigation, and equitable access.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the stakes:

“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people's health, peace of mind, and the environment.”

This investment is complemented by emerging solutions such as atmospheric water generation, with companies like Aquaria raising $112 million to deploy scalable, solar-powered “water-from-air” systems that can supply entire residential developments in under a week - addressing gaps where traditional infrastructure is cost-prohibitive.

Meanwhile, non-profits and early-stage startups can access equity-free grants of up to $50,000 through specialized programs targeting water security and efficiency, including rural and tribal initiatives focused on innovative water technologies.

For broader industry impact, major partnerships provide project financing and flexible deployment models that accelerate access, as detailed in recent reporting on financing the future of water infrastructure.

The combined efforts and funding - both public and private - are creating a robust environment for technological innovation, ensuring that Kansas is positioned as a leader in clean, accessible water systems at home and as a model to other regions.

For a full breakdown of recent federal water infrastructure funding in Kansas, visit the EPA's 2025 announcement on water investments.

Families in Topeka and beyond navigating complex disabilities are seeing new hope through the latest wave of health tech innovation. The 2025 One Mind Accelerator cohort features 16 emerging companies spanning AI-driven mental health solutions, precision psychiatry, child and adolescent care, and non-invasive neuromodulation - all aimed at centralizing and streamlining support for families facing neurological and psychiatric challenges.

According to Kathleen M. Pike, PhD, CEO of One Mind,

“Advances in mental health, brain research, AI, and computing are revolutionizing protection and treatment of mental health. This cohort leads the charge combining scientific, technological, and business innovations to improve lives affected by mental health conditions - which includes us all.”

Programs like the veteran-led SPEAR Accelerator Health Tech Cohort 2025 are fast-tracking digital and neurotechnology startups, ensuring tailored, scalable care with expert mentorship in collaboration with leading universities.

Further, the mHUB MedTech Accelerator supports breakthrough devices for neurological and developmental conditions, such as remote brain health monitoring and advanced vital sign scanning, pairing startups with prototyping labs and health industry giants for rapid deployment - read more about these innovations at One Mind Accelerator's 2025 cohort announcement and the mHUB MedTech Accelerator 2025.

As these platforms accelerate technologies focused on neural health and caregiver support, the future of disability care in Topeka is being shaped by real-world solutions designed to empower entire families.

Salubata, a standout in Kansas City's Social Venture Studio 2025 cohort, is turning local plastic waste into high-tech, modular eco-sneakers that champion sustainability and innovation.

Founded by Fela and Yewande Akinse, Salubata uses patented technology to craft shoes entirely from recycled plastic, directly addressing Kansas's environmental challenges while advancing the global effort to reduce carbon footprints.

Salubata's approach mirrors and advances industry trends seen in eco-friendly and modular footwear, as large brands like Adidas launch 100% recyclable shoes through efforts like FUTURECRAFT.LOOP, and Commbi introduces swappable footbeds for personalized, sustainable wear (Kansas City Social Venture Studio cohort announcement, Adidas recyclable shoe innovation, Commbi's modular footwear trend analysis).

Here's how Kansas City innovators compare:

“Entrepreneurship is a critical driver of equitable economic growth. Programs like Social Venture Studio help cultivate a more inclusive innovation ecosystem by elevating founders who are creating value not only for investors - but for entire communities.” - Jim Erickson, Director of Strategic Initiatives at EDCKC

Salubata's eco-sneakers demonstrate how Kansas's tech community is blending environmental responsibility with next-generation design, setting a model that's both locally impactful and globally relevant.

Retailers in Topeka and beyond are rapidly reimagining how product returns - often viewed as a costly operational headache - can drive both revenue and sustainability.

The rise of reverse logistics is transforming warehouses into sophisticated hubs where returned, overstock, and even defective items are carefully sorted, cleaned, and refurbished for resale, rather than being liquidated or discarded.

With U.S. retail returns now approaching $890 billion annually - more than double the 2019 figure - and soaring post-holiday return rates (up 28% globally this year alone), the need for effective solutions is pressing.

Industry leaders such as ReturnPro exemplify the evolving approach, managing 259 categories of goods and recirculating returns through AI-driven software that streamlines sorting and disposition, helping retailers recover at least 25 cents on the dollar and drastically reducing landfill waste (The Booming Business of Returned Products).

The secondary market for recommerce - refurbished, resale, and rental - is forecast to reach $4.04 trillion by 2034, fueled by consumer demand for circular shopping options and heightened by environmental imperatives; for instance, refurbishing a single smartphone can save 64 kg of CO₂, 244 kg of raw materials, and 76,000 liters of water (How Reverse Logistics Is Reshaping Retail and Sustainability).

As 75% of retailers invest in automation to handle rising return volumes, the circular logistics revolution is tackling not just profitability, but also issues such as returns-related fraud, packaging waste, and consumer loyalty.

The National Retail Federation underscores this trend, noting that 67% of shoppers are deterred by poor returns experiences - prompting innovations from local drop-offs to returnless refunds and sustainable returns packaging (Reversing Into the Future: The Outlook for Circular Retail).

Ultimately, the transformation underway promises a future where returns become central to retail strategy, value recovery, and environmental stewardship.

Temple Made Fitness is redefining children's wellness in Topeka and beyond by integrating technology, physical activity, and literacy through hands-on camps and school partnerships.

Founded by Tony L. Temple II and Dee Moore, Temple Made Fitness was selected for LaunchKC's 2025 Social Venture Studio cohort, joining innovators leveraging tech and creativity for social impact.

Their recent collaborations include summer programs with Notre Dame de Sion Grade School and the Kansas City Public Library, offering interactive activities such as animal movements, mindfulness practices, and healthful eating discussions to underserved youth.

As Tony Temple explained,

“Reading opens the minds and imagination of our little ones, and imagination is the fuel our future leaders need for wellness – physically and mentally. We are looking forward to this partnership and great opportunity to get kids moving and learning.”

These programs, spanning local schools and community centers since 2022, focus on kindergarten through third-grade students and adapt to varying themes each week to foster both healthy habits and literacy skills.

Temple Made Fitness exemplifies the tech-driven social impact movement in the region, as outlined in the LaunchKC 2025 Social Venture Studio innovative cohort, and fuels its programming through strong community ties detailed on their Temple Made Fitness official programs page.

The success of youth-focused wellness classes in partnership with the Kansas City Public Library further demonstrates the team's commitment, as highlighted in this Kansas City Public Library children's summer wellness classes article.

This month's headlines reveal a pivotal moment for Topeka's tech ecosystem, marked by bold investments in community-driven innovation and a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Local initiatives like the Topeka Startup Community by Omni Circle - with fintech partnership from Cyphr - are empowering diverse entrepreneurs through accessible capital and hands-on business training, aiming to close the 20% small business loan acceptance gap by fostering financial literacy and readiness.

Parallel to these efforts, the downtown Link Innovation Labs incubator is leveraging Topeka's role in the regional animal health and agtech corridor, providing modular labs and mentorship alongside global partners like Plug and Play to anchor startup growth.

Meanwhile, national momentum for AI in education is echoed locally, with policy discussions and new mandates promising to prepare K-12 students for the AI-powered future - though experts urge clarity, funding, and critical thinking curricula:

“The world is changing and adapting very, very fast, and we can't afford to have an education system that lags this far behind.” - Bill Salak

These concurrent trends toward inclusive entrepreneurship, targeted industry acceleration, and workforce upskilling, as documented in expert analysis of federal AI policy, position Topeka as a midwestern leader ready for both economic mobility and tech innovation.

For aspiring professionals, Nucamp's bootcamps - including Solo AI Tech Entrepreneur, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, and Full Stack Web + Mobile - offer affordable, flexible entry to these thriving sectors, with multiple scholarship and financing opportunities designed to reflect Topeka's inclusive vision.