Ideatek
BUHLER, Kan. — The demand for dependable fiber internet across Kansas continues to drive IdeaTek Telcom's ascent among the nation’s fastest-growing private companies, securing the 2,022nd spot on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list unveiled by Inc. magazine on Wednesday.
This marks IdeaTek's tenth inclusion in this esteemed list. Last year, the company ranked 2,310th. The list represents an elite showcase of well-managed and successful companies based on three-year growth rates. Microsoft, Dell, Fitbit, Pandora and other household names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the list.
In the last 12 months, IdeaTek has extended its fiber coverage to include an additional 20,000 new households. This increases the company’s fiber footprint to over 4,500 miles, spanning nearly 60 Kansas communities.
Additionally, IdeaTek remains committed to extending its reach to remote regions using high-speed wireless technology, enabling the company to provide reliable internet access to a total of 100 communities from Garden City to Emporia.
“Every American deserves Internet Freedom, where access to fast and competitive broadband is not a luxury but a fundamental utility,” said IdeaTek Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer Daniel Friesen. “Our growth stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and hard work of our exceptional team who share in our mission. They go above and beyond to provide lightning-fast connectivity to thousands of Kansans."
Founded by Friesen and four high school friends in 1999, IdeaTek's mission is to connect underserved communities with affordable, high-speed internet service. Significant private investment paired with several state and federal broadband expansion programs has expedited IdeaTek’s growth trajectory. The company employs 150 Kansans, making it one of Reno County's larger employers.
In December 2022, IdeaTek was awarded a $7.9 million Kansas Capital Project Funds broadband grant to construct 400 miles of fiber along U.S. Highway 83 between Liberal and Scott City. This region, scattered with numerous feed yards and farms, will bring cutting-edge technology to hundreds of underserved Kansans.
Meanwhile, IdeaTek’s growth continues in 2023. The company has announced several substantial build outs this year, including Hutchinson, McPherson, Augusta, Liberal, Dodge City, Valley Center and Newton.
“Kansans should have affordable and reliable internet access no matter where they live,” Reimer said. “Moreover, reliable access is critical to community growth and economic development. That’s why IdeaTek continues to dedicate resources to evaluating where we go next.”
CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.