Why didn’t my project receive funding?

We received a large number of strong applications, and the funds available were limited. The Review Committee had to make difficult decisions to balance the number of projects that could be supported with the amount of funding available. The committee also felt a responsibility to use funds in a way that would maximize statewide impact by supporting as many feasible projects as possible.

Funding was prioritized for projects that most closely aligned with the goals of ACCEL-KS by advancing product innovation, demonstrating a clear path to commercialization, and showing measurable technical progress throughout the lifespan of the grant.

why didn’t i receive the full amount i requested?

Some projects received partial funding following a detailed review of their budgets and milestones. This approach allowed the ACCEL-KS program to support a wider range of projects while ensuring alignment with program goals and funding guidelines.

Funding was instead directed toward the most innovation-focused, prototype-oriented, and development-related aspects of each project.

Awardees receiving funding will receive an Acknowledgement Form outlining the approved uses of funds and corresponding milestone dates. This form must be signed and returned to confirm acceptance of the award and agreement to follow program guidelines.

what factors did the review committee consider when making funding decisions?

Funding decisions were based on how well the project aligned with the program goals, as well as the proposal’s strength. Questions the committee considered:

• Did the project have a clear focus on core product innovation?

• What was the technical feasibility and readiness for prototype development?

• Did the project have potential for commercial impact and scalability?

• Did the project demonstrate efficient use of funds?

what types of expenses were not eligible for funding?

ACCEL-KS funding was directed toward the development and testing of innovative products. The Review Committee did not fund:

• General operating expenses or administrative costs.

• Marketing or advertising focused solely on customer acquisition. We did fund expenses related to market and customer validation.

• Equipment purchases or development software and licenses where lower-cost or shared access to professional versions are available.

what support is available if my project was not funded?

All applicants will receive access to an Ecosystem Support Package, which will include consulting and resources. Click HERE to learn more.

can I receive specific feedback on my application?

Due to the large number of submissions, the Review Committee cannot provide individual feedback on applications.

We encourage applicants to participate in CAMPFIRE and other ecosystem programs, where they can receive guidance and mentorship to strengthen future proposals.

what was the review and selection process?

The Review Committee conducted a multi-staged evaluation:

• Initial eligibility and qualification review.

• Committee scoring based on established criteria.

• Selection for interviews.

• Final funding recommendations.

Only a limited number of applications advanced to the interview stage due to the competitive nature of the program.

will there be another round of accel-ks funding?

When we launched ACCEL-KS at Groover Labs, we expected to have multiple funding rounds. However, the strength and quality of the applications in the first round led us to allocate the available funding so we can support as many promising projects as possible.

There are no confirmed plans for a second round. If any awardees do not meet their milestones and second-tranche funds are not distributed, we may open a limited opportunity for reconsideration.

Updates will be announced through Groover Labs newsletter. Subscribe HERE.

when will the funded applicants receive their second tranche of funds?

If applicable milestones are met and approved, second-tranche payments are expected to be distributed in late January or early February 2026, pending Groover Labs’ receipt of its second tranche from the Kansas Department of Commerce.