Description

Our WIBA luncheon is a great time to network with other like-minded business leaders, enjoy a buffet lunch and hear from local speakers.

Daniel Friesen is the co-founder and chief innovation officer of IdeaTek, a pioneering fiber-optic broadband company dedicated to bridging the digital divide across Kansas.
Daniel started IdeaTek with four other friends in 1999 as a senior project at Buhler High School.
2024 marks IdeaTek's 25th year in business.

Based in Buhler, IdeaTek champions the mission of “fighting for Internet Freedom” with the
belief that all Kansans deserve access to fiber-optic internet, no matter where they live or their
circumstances. The company is making strides, installing thousands of miles of fiber across
Kansas. This effort has created job opportunities for 160 Kansans and brought reliable internet
services to 100 communities, spanning from Emporia to Garden City. Notably, more than 60 of
these communities operate on a 100-percent fiber network.

Beyond IdeaTek, Friesen also serves in local government as a county commissioner in Reno
County, Kansas, and was previously a three-term mayor of Buhler, Kansas, first elected at the
age of 27. Additionally, Friesen enjoys aviation and holds a private pilot license with an
instrument rating.