Kelly Administration Launches Online Incentive Transparency Database

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of an incentive transparency database designed to enhance visibility and accountability of economic development incentive programs administered in the state of Kansas.

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Department of Commerce administers several economic development incentive programs established by and funded through the Kansas Legislature. In fiscal year 2019, the Department of Commerce completed 133 successful projects expected to generate approximately 13,000 new Kansas jobs and more than $1 billion in capital investment in the state.

“Increasing transparency has been a priority of my administration from the very beginning. Kansans deserve to know what’s happening in our state agencies and how their tax dollars are being spent,” Governor Kelly said. “The new transparency database provides a comprehensive look into how the Department of Commerce and the state are incentivizing businesses to locate and remain in Kansas.”

The incentive transparency database allows users to search approved projects by company or entity name, county and program, as well as access key project details such as award justification and award amount. Data for 11 programs have been included in the database for fiscal year 2020 (beginning July 1, 2019); subsequent years’ data will be added to the database as it becomes available.

Programs Searchable in the Incentive Transparency Database

• Angel Investors Tax Credit Program
• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
• Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credit
• High-Performance Incentive Program (HPIP)
• Individual Development Accounts (IDA)
• Job Creation Fund (JCF)
• Kansas Industrial Training & Retraining (KIT-KIR)
• Private Activity Bonds (PAB)
• Promoting Employment Across Kansas (PEAK)
• Rural Opportunity Zones (ROZ)
• Sales Tax Revenue (STAR) Bonds

“The incentive transparency database launched today provides visibility into how the Department of Commerce administers incentive programs and helps generate new investment and create new jobs in Kansas,” Secretary Toland said. “I’d like to thank Representative Williams for introducing HB2223, which calls for the establishment of the database and for her ongoing commitment to ensuring government transparency and accountability.”

To access the incentive transparency database, visit kansascommerce.gov/transparency.