According to their text, they seem to have received those grants 3 years ago. Still, given the rather low goal, I'd, too, assume that this is simply a marketing strategy to increase visibility. After all, this is a kickstarter and when you back it (even though not receiving any Kites for yourself on the low tiers) you do something good for those poor people in Uganda!

Also, I'd guess that the $75k goal barely covers production, shipping & travel costs... and their manufacturing pipeline seems to already be set up.