Two Lawrence companies are among 22 applicants statewide to win state recommendations for projects that would extend and improve broadband service to rural residents.

The World Company, doing business as Sunflower Broadband, and Lawrence Freenet Inc. were among those to emerge from a pool of 85 applications for a share of $4.9 billion in federal stimulus financing intended to increase high-speed Internet access in rural areas and boost state economies.

The recommendations go to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is expected to announce late this year or early next year which projects will receive financing.

The World Company seeks $18 million for a project called “Fiber to the Prairie,” concentrating in rural underserved areas of Douglas and Leavenworth counties.

Lawrence Freenet requests $4.16 million for a broadband initiative in Douglas County.