Kansas Tourism Announces New Grant to Assist Restoration of Historic Barns for Agritourism Businesses

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced the Barn Adaptation and Restoration Needs (BARN) Grant Program is open for applications. This is the first grant program of its kind for Kansas Tourism. The grant has been created to support and expand agritourism businesses across Kansas through converting underutilized or vacant historic barns into new venues.

“Transforming barns through the BARN program will preserve historical structures and repurpose them into vibrant hubs for agritourism activities, all while bringing new life and economic opportunities into Kansas communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By revitalizing these iconic buildings, we are honoring our state’s agricultural roots and planting seeds for future businesses to grow and prosper.”

The BARN grant program is designed to spur economic growth and help create memorable visitor experiences by preserving a significant aspect of Kansas’ architectural history. These grants are specifically designed to rescue iconic barns from likely demolition or collapse and rehabilitate them into spaces conducive for new or expanding agritourism businesses.

“The type of project we are looking for are those that have the potential to bring new visitors to Kansas,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Agritourism is an effective way to celebrate our state’s agricultural tradition while providing unforgettable travel experiences to our visitors.”

A total of $100,000 will be provided this year, with a maximum of $25,000 available per project. Applications are open until July 31 and awards will be made in September. BARN guidelines and applications are available here.