The following is a listing of funding opportunities potentially available for projects related to Economic Development with focus on programs applicable to North Central Kansas. Click here for helpful tips on seeking project funding.
Certified Site Kansas Support Grant
As part of the Certified Sites Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce will provide matching dollars up to $10,000 for eligible entities to use toward completion of a Kansas Certified Sites program application. Funding is available for non-metro counties with a population less than 50,000. All applicants are required to provide matching funds on a 1:1 basis.
Deadline: January 1, 2023 – Applications Open until funding expires
Organization: Kansas Department of Commerce
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Economic Development
Grants to cities or counties are then loaned to provide gap financing for private businesses that create or retain permanent jobs. Eligible activities include infrastructure, land acquisition, fixed assets and working capital. At least 51% of the jobs created or retained by the for-profit entity must meet the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s low- and moderate-income standard. The funding ceiling is $35,000 per job created or retained with a maximum of $750,000.
Deadline: Rolling application. Check the website for more details.
Organization: Kansas Department of Commerce
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Youth Job Training
Program provides funding to help youth enter the workforce with training and skills development, this program encourages self-sufficiency and independence, and addresses the shortage of skilled trade workers in Kansas. Partnerships with educational institutions and/or other entities involved in youth job training are encouraged. Communities can receive up to $100,000.
Deadline: Part of the Commerce CDBG Annual Competitive Round. In 2024, applications due May 17. Check the website for more details.
Organization: Kansas Department of Commerce
Kansas Apprenticeship Act Tax Credit
Program to expand/promote apprenticeships within businesses, nonprofits, healthcare and education. Tax credits up to $2,500 until after December 31, 2025 when it goes up to $2,750 for each employed apprentice, not to exceed 20 such credits in any taxable year per eligible employer and up to 4 years per apprentice.
Deadline: Check website for details.
Organization: Kansas Office of Apprenticeship/Kansas Department of Commerce
USDA Rural Development – Business & Industry Loan Guarantees
Guarantee of loans for businesses that save or create jobs in rural areas or towns under 50,000 in population.
Deadline: Contact local office for details.
Organization: USDA Rural Development
USDA Rural Development – Rural Business Development Grants
Grant program designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenues. Funds must be directed for projects benefiting rural areas or towns under 50,000 in population.
Deadline: Contact local office for details.
Organization: USDA Rural Development
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Program
Program that encourages employment by reducing employer’s federal income tax liability for a qualified new worker in the first year of employment. Hire should fit in one of several targeted groups of job candidates who traditionally face significant barriers to employment. Does apply to first time hires only and does not include relatives.
Deadline: IRS Form 8850 must be completed and mailed to the KS WOTC Unit within 28 calendar days of the start date.
Organization: Kansas Department of Commerce
