City of Lakeland opens applications for local nonprofits seeking Wi-Fi connectivity; deadline is October 16
LAKELAND, Fla. – September 29, 2026 – Summit Broadband, a leading fiber-optics telecommunications provider in Florida, is proud to continue its support of the SurfLakeland Digital Divide Grant Program as the City of Lakeland opens applications for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 program years. The community initiative expands internet access for local nonprofit organizations and the individuals they serve, and it marks nearly five years of partnership and investment in bridging the digital divide across the Lakeland community.
Through the SurfLakeland program, qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations receive Wi-Fi connectivity that enables critical services, educational opportunities, workforce development, and community engagement for residents who may otherwise face barriers to reliable internet access. The service is intended for non-business use.
“Connectivity is no longer a luxury. It is essential for education, healthcare access, employment opportunities, and community engagement,” said Kurt Van Wagenen, CEO of Summit Broadband. “We are honored to have supported the SurfLakeland Digital Divide Grant Program for nearly five years and remain committed to helping local organizations strengthen the communities they serve through technology and connectivity.”
Nonprofit organizations are invited to demonstrate how Wi-Fi access can further their mission, increase community impact and provide meaningful opportunities for the populations they support.
Applications must be emailed to SurfLakeland@lakelandgov.net by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026. The deadline will be strictly enforced. Applicants must include a copy of their IRS 501(c)(3) approval letter and one set of the agency’s financial statements for the previous year. The application form is available at www.lakelandgov.net/surflakeland.
At the end of the application period, Summit Broadband and the City of Lakeland’s Department of Information Technology will evaluate each qualified application and prepare cost estimates for delivering SurfLakeland Wi-Fi. This is a non-reimbursement grant, and a technical team will determine the cost. A financial contribution from applicants is recommended, but not required, and may be considered by the Review Committee in its selection recommendations. Selected organizations will enter into a grant agreement with the City of Lakeland and Summit Broadband.
Summit Broadband’s participation in SurfLakeland reflects the company’s broader commitment to community investment and digital equity throughout Florida. By partnering with local governments, nonprofits, schools, and community organizations, Summit Broadband continues working to ensure more individuals have access to the tools and technology needed to succeed in today’s connected world. This commitment aligns with the Summit Promise, which is centered on empowering the communities we serve through meaningful connections, reliable technology, and opportunities that help residents and businesses thrive.
For questions about the application, email SurfLakeland@lakelandgov.net or call 863-834-3360. For more information about Summit Broadband and its leadership team, visit www.summitfiber.com.
