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Kansas Commerce Newsroom

The latest news in Kansas economic development

There’s always something new in the world of Kansas economic development. Whether it’s community success stories, business expansions or other exciting developments, this is the place to learn more about progress in Kansas.

The Kansas Department of Commerce Communications & Marketing Division

CONTACT

Patrick Lowry, Director of Marketing and Communications

(785) 250-4562

[email protected]

Press Releases

Stay up to date with the latest information on Kansas businesses, grants and opportunities for communities from the Kansas Department of Commerce.
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Kansas Tourism Triumphs with Four Marketing Awards, Highlighting Excellence in Destination Promotion
March 8, 2024

TOPEKA – North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) recently announced that Kansas Tourism received four awards in the 32nd Annual NATJA Awards Competition. The competition honors the best of the best in travel journalism, photography …

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Governor Kelly Announces $14M Capital Investment Creating 110 Jobs in Wellington
March 4, 2024

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Elite Harness is investing $14 million, creating 110 new jobs, in Wellington. Elite Harness will refurbish an existing facility into a 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art manufacturing plant. Elite will …

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Commerce Announces $4.1M Available in Tax Credits Program
February 28, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $4.1 million in tax credits once again will be made available under the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). CSP assists …

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Commerce Grants Available for Rural Mural and Public Art Projects
February 23, 2024

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced a total of $75,000 is available for a new round of Rural Mural and Public Art program funding. The program helps rural communities design engaging new …

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Kansas awarded nearly $1 million from USDA to assist with rural digital divide
February 21, 2024

TOPEKA – The Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) has been awarded nearly $1 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service through its new Broadband Technical Assistance (BTA) grant program. The $997,000 …

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2024 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award Nominations Open
February 15, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award.  The Governor’s Exporter of the Year …

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Commerce Encourages Jobseekers to Attend Year’s First Statewide Virtual Job Fair
February 14, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for talent to take part in the first Virtual Statewide Job Fair of the year. Hosted by KANSASWORKS, the job fair will …

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Kansas Tourism Announces Attraction Development Grants Spring Applications Open
February 9, 2024

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism has announced the spring round of applications are open for the Tourism Attraction Development Grant Program. Attraction Development Grants are designed to assist in the development of sustainable travel experiences by …

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Governor Kelly Announces Honeywell Investing $84M in Olathe Manufacturing Facility
February 2, 2024

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Honeywell will invest $84 million to expand its aerospace manufacturing facility in Olathe, creating 156 new jobs. The project is expected to generate nearly $47 million in …

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Emergency HEAL Grants Available to Stabilize Rural Downtown Buildings
February 1, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $500,000 will be available under the Emergency Response Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (Emergency HEAL) program to bring rural downtown buildings back from likely …

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Kansas Tourism Celebrates Kansas Day by Launching 2024 Marketing Campaign
January 29, 2024

TOPEKA — To commemorate Kansas Day, Kansas Tourism has released a new video inviting audiences to reclaim their vacation in Kansas. The video kicks off Kansas Tourism’s 2024 marketing campaign that focuses on the true meaning …

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Broadband Acceleration Grant Makes $10M Available
January 26, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $10 million is available to enhance broadband infrastructure statewide through the Broadband Acceleration Grant program. Grants funded through this program are designed to …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $1.4M for Rural Economic Development
January 24, 2024

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the most recent round of award recipients for the Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant program, which was created to help rural communities revitalize downtown buildings and create safer downtowns …

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Virtual Job Fair Opens Pathway to Hundreds of State Government Positions
January 17, 2024

TOPEKA – Jobseekers are encouraged to take part in the first State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair of 2024, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 24. The virtual fair …

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Commerce Expands Funding Opportunities for Arts and Culture in Kansas
January 16, 2024

TOPEKA — Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of two new Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) grant programs, Arts Everywhere Grants and General Operating Support Grants, ushering in …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $5M for Digital Skills Training
January 12, 2024

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a $4.75 million initiative to improve the digital skills of Kansans not yet able to maximize the power of the internet. The Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) …

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Kansas Commerce Hires New Deputy Secretary
January 8, 2024

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today Joshua Jefferson has been named the agency’s new Deputy Secretary for Business Development. Jefferson brings 15 years of experience in economic development, commercial …

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Governor Kelly Unveils New Designation for Kansas Cities Improving High-Speed Internet
January 4, 2024

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the launch of Kansas Broadband Ready Communities, a new certification from the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) for communities working to improve access to high-speed internet. “Participation …

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Kansas Tops Nation in Economic Growth Over Fall 2023 
December 27, 2023

~Kansas’ Economic Growth Was #1 in the Nation in the 3rd Quarter of 2023, #2 in the Nation in the 2nd Quarter~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated that, according to data released by the …

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Commerce Awards 2023 SEED Grants to 13 Kansas Communities
December 21, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the newest award recipients for the Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program. In total, 13 recipients will receive nearly $275,000 to …

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Governor Kelly Announces Business Investment in Kansas Tops $18 Billion
December 19, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today Kansas has reached yet another significant economic development milestone. Since the start of the Kelly administration in 2019, Kansas has attracted more than $18 billion in private-sector investment, …

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Virtual Job Fair Offers Hundreds of Employment Opportunities in Kansas
December 6, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for talent to take part in the final Virtual Statewide Job Fair of the year, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $15M Available to Connect Kansans to Digital Devices and Public Wi-Fi
November 30, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that applications are open for the Advancing Digital Opportunities to Promote Technology (ADOPT) program. A total of $14.7 million in grant awards will be available to organizations addressing the …

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Governor Kelly Announces $28.5M for High-Speed Internet Infrastructure
November 29, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $28.5 million in grants were awarded to 12 entities through the Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity (LINC) program. The LINC program provides strategic funding for crucial aspects …

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Governor Kelly Announces $5M to Expand Access to High-Speed Internet in Rural Kansas Communities
November 27, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that $5 million has been awarded to eight internet service providers (ISPs) in the latest round of Broadband Acceleration Grants for 2023. The awards will be paired with …

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Commerce Program Opens Employment Pathway for Justice-Involved Kansans
November 14, 2023

TOPEKA – KANSASWORKS, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, is taking significant strides to empower justice-involved individuals across the state through the Re-entry Specialized Employment Counseling & Training (ReSpECT)WORKS program. This program provides …

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Governor Kelly Proclaims Apprenticeship Week in Kansas
November 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed this week, November 12-17, Apprenticeship Week in Kansas. National Apprenticeship Week is an annual event to promote the essential role apprenticeships play in developing a skilled and vibrant …

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Tourism Grant Awardees Announced: Boosting Local Tourism Initiatives to Drive Economic Growth and Visitor Engagement
November 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced it will distribute $500,000 in Attraction Development Grants. The fall 2023 funding will be split amongst 14 communities across the state for tourism attractions that either are being developed …

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Commerce Announces First ‘Made in Kansas’ Participants
November 8, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced 13 manufacturers have been accepted into the department’s Made in Kansas program. Made in Kansas is sponsored by the Kansas Department of Commerce …

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Commerce Announces $2M in CDBG-COVID Resiliency Competitive Grants
November 7, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced 15 Kansas communities would receive their share of $2 million from the Community Development Block Grant-COVID Resiliency (CDBG-CVR) competitive grant program. This program was funded via …

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Governor Kelly Travels to Germany to Promote Investment Opportunities
November 6, 2023

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly wrapped up a trade mission to Germany to promote Kansas and encourage foreign investment into the state. While there, the governor met with business leaders to discuss the many opportunities …

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State Agency Employment on Display at In-Person Career Fair
November 6, 2023

TOPEKA – Jobseekers are invited to attend the State of Kansas State Agency Career Fair at the State Capitol Building’s first floor rotunda from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 8. This career fair, …

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Governor Kelly Announces Commerce-Negotiated Resolution to Cerner Payroll Tax Obligations
October 27, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today the commitment made by OnGoal LLC, the parent company of Sporting Kansas City, to contribute $7 million to various economic development and community projects primarily in eastern Wyandotte …

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Governor Kelly Encourages Communities to Join Kansas Main Street Program
October 20, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Kansas Main Street program is seeking new communities to join the program in 2024. Kansas Main Street provides technical assistance and support for communities working to revitalize their …

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Abundant Career Prospects Available Across the State
October 18, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland urges jobseekers and employers looking for talent to participate in the October Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, October …

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Governor Kelly Announces Rural Champions Receive $300K for Community Projects
October 17, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $300,000 has been awarded to the 12 Rural by Choice Champions (Rural Champions) announced last year in collaboration with the Office of Rural Prosperity and the Patterson Family …

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Governor Kelly Cuts Ribbon on $450M, 100+ Job Hill’s Pet Nutrition Tonganoxie Plant
October 16, 2023

TONGANOXIE – Governor Laura Kelly today joined business leaders from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Colgate-Palmolive, Leavenworth County, City of Tonganoxie, and other industry and elected officials for the grand opening of a new, fully designed smart facility …

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Kansas Businesses Honored at Commerce’s ‘To The Stars’ Ceremony
October 12, 2023

TOPEKA – Businesses and individuals from across the state were honored Thursday night at the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita for their outstanding contributions to Kansas communities and the state’s economy at the …

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Governor Kelly Invites Public Input on Volume 2 of Broadband Plan
October 12, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the release of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Initial Proposal Volume 2. As part of the planning process, the public is invited to submit their comments on …

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Governor Kelly Releases Kansas Broadband Digital Equity Plan for Public Comment
October 2, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Kansas Digital Equity (DE) Plan for high-speed internet connectivity is available for public review and comment. While the recently announced Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Five-Year Action …

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Governor Kelly Celebrates Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses
September 29, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly joined the Kansas Department of Commerce for the 38th Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon at Townsite Tower in Topeka. The luncheon, hosted by Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women …

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Governor Kelly Announces Recipients of More than $500K in Registered Apprenticeship Grants
September 28, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a total of $528,478 has been awarded by the Kansas Department of Commerce to eight entities across the state for projects that will attract and retain employees and build …

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Virtual Job Fair to Highlight Hundreds of State Agency Opportunities
September 20, 2023

TOPEKA – Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 27. This month’s virtual fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, will feature many …

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Governor Kelly Travels to Japan, South Korea to Create More Jobs for Kansans
September 15, 2023

TOPEKA – This week, Governor Laura Kelly traveled to Japan and South Korea to participate in the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association (MWJA/JMWA) Conference. While there, she met with business leaders to continue building on Kansas’ historic economic …

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Kansas Commerce Department Hires New International Director
September 15, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today Laura Lombard has been named the agency’s new International Director. Lombard brings 15 years of experience in international relations and business development to …

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Governor Kelly Announces Funding to Grow Small Business Exports
September 8, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) awarded $200,000 to the Kansas Department of Commerce to expand the state’s robust export sector, which hit an all-time high of $13.97 …

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Governor Kelly Celebrates Nearly 40% Increase in Apprentices Since Creation of Office of Registered Apprenticeship One Year Ago
September 6, 2023

TOPEKA – Today marks one year since Governor Laura Kelly established the Office of Registered Apprenticeship through Executive Order 22-07. The Office was created to strengthen workforce development and grow the economy by modernizing and expanding …

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Governor Kelly Announces $1M Available for Tourism Attraction Development Grants
September 5, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $1 million in Attraction Development Grants is available from Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. Attraction Development Grants are designed to assist in …

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Governor Kelly Breaks Ground on $2B Redevelopment in Overland Park 
August 29, 2023

OVERLAND PARK – Governor Laura Kelly joined Curtin Property Company, Johnson County government officials, and business leaders today to celebrate the redevelopment of Brookridge at 103rd Street and Antioch Road in Overland Park. The $2 …

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Kansas Tourism Announces Marketing Grant Awardees
August 28, 2023

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, today announced $117,780 has been awarded in the 2023 Tourism Marketing Grant Awards Program. The grants are designed to assist local tourism organizations …

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Kansas Submits Five-Year, $451M Action Plan to Expand High-Speed Internet
August 24, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Kansas Office of Broadband Development has submitted the state’s comprehensive Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Five-Year Action Plan (FYAP) to the National Telecommunications and Information …

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SEED Grants Available to Invest in Rural Quality-of-Life Initiatives
August 22, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that $275,000 will be available through a second round of Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grants. The SEED program supports economic development …

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Governor Kelly Announces Entertainment Company to Build $41M Studio and Learning Center, Create 101 Jobs at K-State Salina
August 22, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Hollywood-based Pure Imagination Studios is partnering with Kansas State University’s Salina Campus, Salina Airport Authority, and the State of Kansas to build an advanced spatial computing studio and …

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Kansas Commerce Department Hires New KCAIC Director
August 21, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today Curtis Young has been named Director of the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC). Young is an experienced arts administrator who has spent …

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Governor Kelly Announces $500,000 Awarded to Emporia, Osawatomie to Revitalize Downtowns
August 16, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that two rural communities will each receive $250,000 in federal grants to assist with community development projects. The $500,000 will be matched with $1,236,632 of local funding, totaling more …

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KCAIC Invites Creative Individuals to Join Kansas Touring Artist Roster
August 16, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) today announced it is accepting applications from artists to be listed on the Kansas Touring Artist Roster. Applicants can come from any artistic discipline including, but …

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Career Opportunities in Kansas Plentiful for Those Seeking Work
August 16, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland invites jobseekers and employers to participate in this month’s Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 23. …

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New Round of Funding Announced for Revitalization of Downtown Buildings
August 10, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $1.5 million will be available for a fourth round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize dilapidated and underutilized downtown buildings in small …

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Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Awarded Nearly $500K to Boost Internet Connectivity
August 3, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that a $498,000 broadband grant has been awarded to the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska to enhance public Wi-Fi services at community hubs and replace outdated equipment. It …

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Governor Kelly Invites Public Input on Broadband Infrastructure Plan
August 2, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Initial Proposal Volume 1 is available for public viewing and comment. The BEAD 5-Year Action Plan, along with Volume 1 …

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Kansas to Develop Strategy to Expand Apprenticeships for Youths
July 31, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas has been selected to participate in the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) Policy Academy to Advance Youth Apprenticeship. Through the Policy Academy, Kansas will …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $7.9M in Community Development Grants
July 26, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that 24 communities in rural counties throughout the state will receive a share of nearly $7.9 million in federal grants to assist with community development projects. The Community Development …

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Governor Kelly Announces Launch of MeadowLARK Grant Program to Expand Apprenticeship Opportunities in Kansas
July 24, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Office of Apprenticeship has launched the MeadowLARK — Leading Apprenticeship Results in Kansas — Initiative to expand the state’s Registered Apprenticeship opportunities further. “MeadowLARK is an …

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Virtual Job Fair to Showcase Hundreds of Available State Positions
July 20, 2023

TOPEKA – Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26. This virtual fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, will focus on …

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Governor Kelly Ceremonially Signs Bill Recognizing Establishment of Lehigh Portland State Park
July 17, 2023

IOLA – Governor Laura Kelly today ceremonially signed House Bill 2039, a bipartisan bill establishing Lehigh Portland State Park. She was joined by community members, legislators, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in Allen County …

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Kansas Nonprofits Receive More than $4M from Community Service Program Tax Credits
July 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $4.1 million in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits has been awarded to 36 nonprofit organizations across the state to boost fundraising efforts focused on improving local access to …

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Kansas Surpasses 60,000 Jobs Created and Retained Since Start of Governor Kelly Administration
July 5, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since she took office in January 2019, her administration has successfully collaborated with private sector businesses to create and retain more than 60,000 jobs in Kansas. This milestone …

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Governor Kelly Signs Kansas Apprenticeship Act to Build Skilled Workforce
June 30, 2023

~Number of Kansas Apprentices Continues to Grow Thanks to Governor’s Office of Registered Apprenticeship~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today ceremonially signed House Bill 2292, bipartisan legislation that promotes and expands apprenticeships with businesses, healthcare organizations, educational …

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Kansas Receives $451.7 Million for High Speed Broadband Infrastructure
June 26, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Kansas will receive $451.7 million in funding to support broadband infrastructure construction to connect all Kansans, ensuring access to high-speed internet across the state.  “My administration is committed …

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Broadband Acceleration Grant 3.0 Will Invest $5 Million to Bridge the Digital Divide in Kansas
June 22, 2023

TOPEKA – The State of Kansas continues to push towards bridging the digital divide with the launch of the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program 3.0. The Kansas Office of Broadband Development today announced the application window will …

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Nominations Now Open for 2023 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards
June 22, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2023 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The popular annual awards program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make …

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Department of Commerce Awards Nearly $10 Million in High-Demand Workforce Development Grants
June 20, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that nearly $10 million has been awarded to 26 recipients for training and workforce development initiatives in high-demand and high-wage industries. Funding was made …

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Governor Kelly Celebrates Michelin’s More Than $100M Investment, Creation of 200 Jobs in Junction City
June 19, 2023

JUNCTION CITY – Governor Laura Kelly celebrates the announcement that Michelin will invest more than $100 million into its Junction City operations over the next five years, creating 200 new jobs. The investment will increase the …

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Department of Commerce Awards Nearly $20 Million in Aviation Workforce Development Grants
June 16, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that nearly $20 million has been awarded to seven recipients for training and workforce development initiatives in the aviation and aerospace industry. Funding …

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Governor Kelly Announces Kansas Wins Nearly $43M to Build Key Infrastructure for High-Speed Internet
June 16, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the National Telecommunications Information and Administration (NTIA) has awarded the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) nearly $43 million to develop infrastructure key to expanding affordable high-speed internet …

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KANSASWORKS to Host Statewide Virtual Job Fair on June 21
June 15, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers to participate in the next Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 21. …

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Governor Kelly Announces WaKeeney Selected as Newest Kansas Main Street Community
June 14, 2023

WAKEENEY – Governor Laura Kelly visited WaKeeney today to announce its selection as the latest community added to the Kansas Main Street program, a Kansas Department of Commerce initiative to preserve and revitalize downtown districts across …

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Governor Kelly Announces Walmart to Build $257M Case-Ready Beef Facility, Create 667 New Jobs in Olathe
June 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Walmart will build its first-ever fully owned and operated case-ready beef facility in Olathe. The retailer will invest $257 million in the plant and create 667 new permanent jobs. …

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Department of Commerce and Patterson Family Foundation Launch Creative Placemaking Pilot Project
June 8, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Patterson Family Foundation are pleased to announce the Engaging Placemaking for Innovative Communities (EPIC) pilot program. With a focus on arts-driven community development projects that enhance rural communities and enable additional partnership and connection, …

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Department of Commerce Seeking Community Input for Future CDBG Projects
June 8, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, needs input regarding how Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding is distributed. CDBG …

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Department of Commerce Makes $2 Million Available for COVID Resiliency Program
June 7, 2023

TOPEKA – The Department of Commerce will award $2 million through the Community Development Block Grant – COVID Resiliency (CDBG-CVR) program to enable cities and counties to address issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic when …

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Kansas Awarded Third Consecutive Gold Shovel from Area Development Magazine
June 6, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that for the third straight year, Kansas has won Area Development magazine’s coveted Gold Shovel Award. The back-to-back-to-back accolade has no precedent in state history and reflects three …

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Spring 2023 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) Grant Recipients Announced
June 5, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced the recipients of the spring 2023 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants. A total of 17 projects from across the state are receiving nearly …

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Governor Kelly Announces 14 Rural Communities Receiving Funding for the Creation of New Murals
June 2, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced 14 communities will receive funding through the Office of Rural Prosperity’s Rural Mural and Public Art grant program. The $76,071 in grants awarded will allow communities to create …

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Kansas Commerce Department Announces Training Opportunities Available to Employers Through KTRAIN
June 1, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the rebranding of the Kansas Workforce Aligned with Industry Demand (AID) program to Kansas Training and Retention Aligned with Industry Need (KTRAIN). In …

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Kansas Launches Broadband Speed Test and Comprehensive Expansion Plan
May 30, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Office of Broadband Development is developing a comprehensive strategic plan to expand broadband infrastructure statewide and ensure every Kansan has access to reliable high-speed internet. To assist in this and provide …

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Nominations Open for Minority and Women Enterprise Development Awards
May 25, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Department of Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced the call for nominations for the 2023 Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week Awards. These annual awards, now in their 38th year at Commerce, …

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Communities Across Kansas Receive Nearly $3.2M CDBG Grant Funding
May 24, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced 10 communities received almost $3.2 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. Grant awards were made in three categories: Water and Sewer, …

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Governor Kelly Announces Kansas Tops $16B in Business Investments Since 2019
May 22, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since her administration took office in 2019, Kansas has attracted more than $16 billion in private sector investment. This significant economic development milestone has resulted in more than …

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Governor Kelly Congratulates Schwan’s for Completion of Major Pizza Plant Expansion in Salina Creating 225 Jobs
May 19, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly congratulated Schwan’s Company officials as they held a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to celebrate the completion of a 400,000-square-foot expansion of its pizza manufacturing facility in Salina. In November, Governor Kelly joined …

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Governor Kelly Breaks Ground on Rock Island Railroad Bridge Project in Kansas City
May 16, 2023

~The Nation’s First Entertainment District on a Bridge will Feature Restaurants, Shops, Bars and More~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Kansas City, Kansas government officials for a groundbreaking celebration marking the beginning of …

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Governor Kelly Announces $30 Million in Tourism Grants
May 11, 2023

TOPEKA –Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $30 million has been awarded to 18 recipients developing and improving tourism sites statewide. Funding was made available through the State Park Revitalization & Investment in Notable Tourism …

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Marla Canfield, Jaicey Gillum named Commerce Employees of the Year
May 11, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced Marla Canfield and Jaicey Gillum have been named the Kansas Department of Commerce’s 2022 Employees of the Year. “Having talented and dedicated employees on …

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Governor Kelly Announces $80M Private Investment Creating 50 Manufacturing Jobs in Maize
May 10, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company, the nation’s top manufacturer of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings, will build an $80 million manufacturing facility in Maize. This investment is …

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Kansas Main Street Selected for Rural Main Streets Entrepreneurial Program
May 10, 2023

TOPEKA – Main Street America has announced that Kansas is one of 10 states selected to participate in the Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Rural Main Streets Program, supported by the Kauffman Foundation. The program aims to …

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Kansas Tourism Awards $421,820 in Attraction Development Grants
May 9, 2023

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced $421,820 in Attraction Development Grants has been awarded to 10 recipients. The funding will be used to develop new tourism attractions or enhance existing sites across the state. Attraction …

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Discover State Agency Employment Opportunities at May Virtual Job Fair
May 8, 2023

TOPEKA – Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 17. This virtual fair, which is hosted by KANSASWORKS, will focus …

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Governor Kelly Announces $30 Million to Increase High-Speed Internet Availability
May 3, 2023

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced a new program aimed at helping Kansas communities that lack high-speed internet. The Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity (LINC) program will provide $30 million in competitive funding opportunities to …

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DSM to Build Next-Generation Premix Plant in KC Region for Clean Premixes Focused on Pet Food and Companion Animals
May 1, 2023

TONGANOXIE – DSM, a global purpose-led health and nutrition company, today announced that it plans to build a next-generation nutritional premix plant in Tonganoxie, Kansas, creating 28 jobs. The new location will supply the pet food …

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Governor Kelly Announces Awardees of Nearly $50 Million of Infrastructure and Economic Development Grants
April 25, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced awardees for the second round of the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) economic development grant program. Thirty-eight awardees will receive a share of nearly $50 million in BASE grants, …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $10 Million to Expand Housing for Elderly and Disabled Kansans
April 21, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that nearly $10 million has been awarded to nine recipients for the construction or renovation of housing for persons with disabilities and the elderly. Funding was made available …

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Department of Commerce Selected for Economic Development Policy Academy
April 19, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that the Department of Commerce and the Southcentral Economic Development District (SCKEDD) have been selected to participate jointly in the Policy Academy, a …

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Commerce Promotes Statewide Virtual Job Fair for Employers and Jobseekers
April 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers looking to hire to participate in the April Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS. This virtual event will take place …

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Governor Kelly Announces Funding to Create Health Care Apprenticeship Programs in Southeast and Western Kansas
April 12, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced $100,000 to support the two new health care apprenticeship programs at Pratt Regional Medical Center and Labette Health. The programs build on the Governor’s creation of the Office …

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Governor Kelly Celebrates 2022 Exporter of the Year Textron Aviation
April 11, 2023

WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Textron Aviation in Wichita to officially honor the company for being named the 2022 Governor’s Exporter of the Year. Textron Aviation, which manufactures well-known brand aircraft such as Beechcraft and …

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Deadline Approaching in Kansas for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Drought
April 10, 2023

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West today reminded Kansas small nonfarm businesses in Butler, Harvey, Marion, McPherson, Reno and Sedgwick counties of the May 9, 2023, deadline …

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Commerce Announces Virtual Job Fair in March For State Agency Jobs
March 22, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers to attend a State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29. …

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New Funding Available to Help Communities with Shovel-Ready Sites
March 21, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced new grant funding that will help communities gain valuable Certified Sites designation for shovel-ready industrial sites in Kansas. Kansas Certified Sites designation is …

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Governor Kelly Launches Statewide Initiative to Increase Adoption of Affordable Connectivity Program
March 15, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a statewide initiative to increase awareness of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a program that helps lower-income families pay for high-speed internet. The ACP is a $14.2 billion …

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Department of Commerce announces $30 Million in New Workforce Grant Programs
March 13, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $30 million will be made available under the Aviation Learning Opportunities & Funded Training (ALOFT) and Delivering Residents and Workforce (DRAW) grant programs. The ALOFT program …

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Kansas Tourism Wins National Marketing Awards
March 9, 2023

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism recently was presented two awards from the 31st Annual North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) award competition. The “Kansas Brand Anthem Commercial” took Silver in the Destination Video Category. The “To …

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Governor Kelly Announces Kansas to Receive $15M to Provide Communities Digital Devices and Skills Training
March 8, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas is the first state to receive $15 million in U.S. Department of Treasury Digital Connectivity Technology (DCT) funds. The money will support equal access to high-speed internet, …

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Governor Kelly Administration Receives National Award for Panasonic Deal
March 7, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the recent announcement by Business Facilities magazine to recognize Kansas with a 2022 Deal of the Year Impact Award. The award in the Innovation Megaproject category resulted from Panasonic …

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Governor Kelly Announces 2023 Exporter of the Year Award Nominations Open
March 1, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award.  The Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award is a prestigious …

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Governor Kelly Announces Kansas Ranked #1 in Private Investment Per Capita for Second Straight Year
March 1, 2023

~State Wins Coveted Governor’s Cup from Site Selection Magazine~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas attracted the most private business investment per capita of any state in the country in 2022 and will …

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Mural, Public Art Funding Available from Department of Commerce
February 28, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced multiple opportunities to support the creation of murals and public art in the state through coordinated funding programs from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) …

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Commerce Makes $4.1M in Community Service Tax Credits Available
February 24, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $4.1 million in tax credits will once again be made available under the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). CSP assists private nonprofit organizations and public healthcare entities …

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Governor Kelly Announces EMP Shield Plans to Build $1.9 Billion, 1,200-Job Computer Chip Manufacturing Facility in Coffey County
February 20, 2023

BURLINGTON – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that EMP Shield, an industry leader in protecting electronic devices from destructive magnetic pulses, plans to invest $1.9 billion in a computer chip manufacturing facility in Burlington. The …

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Commerce Encourages Jobseekers to Attend this Month’s Statewide Virtual Job Fair
February 16, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers to participate in the next Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 22. …

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Kansas Tourism Announces $400,000 Available in Attraction Development Grants
February 14, 2023

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced the Attraction Development Grant program is open for applications. A total of $400,000 is available. Attraction Development Grants provide strategic economic assistance to public or private entities, or not-for-profit …

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$850,000 Funding Announced for Downtown Building Revitalization
February 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $850,000 has been made available to fund a new round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants. The HEAL program, which is funded by the …

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Office of Broadband to Launch ‘Kansas Broadband Roadshow’
February 10, 2023

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Kansas Office of Broadband Development will take its “Kansas Broadband Roadshow” across the state beginning this week. Starting in Emporia on Wednesday, …

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Governor Kelly Announces 37 Rural Mural Projects Completed in 2022
February 3, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that 37 murals were completed in 14 Kansas communities in 2022 through the Office of Rural Prosperity’s (ORP) Rural Mural and Public Art Grant Programming. These grants helped …

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Governor Kelly Announces Integra Technologies to Invest $1.8B, Create Nearly 2,000 Jobs with Wichita Semiconductor Plant
February 2, 2023

~Second-Largest Economic Development Project in State History Will Advance National Security Efforts~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas-based Integra Technologies plans to invest $1.8 billion in a large-scale semiconductor facility in Wichita. This …

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Department of Commerce announces $40 Million in New Housing and Tourism Grant Programs
January 30, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $40 million will be made available under the ARPA Building Opportunities for the Disabled and Elderly (ABODE) and State Park Revitalization and Investment in Notable Tourism …

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Kansas Day Campaign Pays Homage to 150 Years of ‘Home on the Range’
January 30, 2023

TOPEKA – On Sunday, January 29, Kansas celebrated its 162nd birthday. To commemorate the day, Kansas Tourism released a video that pays tribute to the poem turned song, Home on the Range, originally penned 150 …

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Governor Kelly Announces First Virtual Job Fair of 2023
January 20, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly invites jobseekers to participate in the first Virtual Job Fair of 2023, hosted by KANSASWORKS. This virtual fair will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 25, and …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $45 Million to Connect Kansans to High-Speed Internet
January 18, 2023

~Nearly 18,500 Locations Connected to High-Speed Internet in Final Phase of Kansas Capital Project Funds Program~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $44.5 million will be awarded to nine service providers to extend high-speed …

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Department of Commerce announces Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) 2.0 Grant Application
January 3, 2023

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $50 million will fund a second round of projects under the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant program. BASE 2.0 will continue addressing infrastructure and economic …

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Fall 2022 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) Grant Recipients Announced
December 23, 2022

Governor Laura Kelly today announced the recipients of the fall 2022 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants. A total of 15 projects from across the state are receiving almost $773,000 in matching grant funds. HEAL …

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Kansas Receives Nearly $5.7M to Expand Equitable Broadband Access
December 22, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas has received nearly $5.7 million to expand broadband access, adoption, and affordability, from the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Office. “Communities across …

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Governor Kelly Announces Kansas Tops $15B in Private Sector Investments Since 2019
December 20, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since her administration took office in 2019, Kansas has attracted more than $15 billion in private sector investment. This significant economic development milestone has resulted in more than …

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Commerce Announces SEED Grant Recipients Supporting Economic Development
December 16, 2022

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the award recipients for the new Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program. In total, 61 recipients will receive nearly $2.7 million to invest …

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Governor Kelly Announces Over $23M to Expand Broadband in Rural Kansas
December 15, 2022

~Funding will Connect Nearly 4,200 Homes, Businesses, Schools to Internet~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that $23.1 million will be awarded to six service providers that will bring high-speed broadband service to nearly 4,200 …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Job Seekers to Attend End-of-Year Statewide Virtual Job Fair
December 8, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly invites job seekers and employers to participate in the last Statewide Virtual Job Fair being offered in 2022. This virtual fair is hosted by KANSASWORKS and will take place from 8:00 …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Groundbreaking of Sports Complex in Overland Park
December 7, 2022

OVERLAND PARK – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the groundbreaking of the 420,000-square-foot multi-sport complex at the Bluhawk development in Overland Park. The facility is part of the $400 million-plus, 277-acre, mixed-use project funded partly by STAR …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates Recipients of Annual Minority and Women Business Awards
November 18, 2022

TOPEKA – Minority- and woman-owned businesses were honored this week as part of Kansas Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week. The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development hosted its 37th Annual Minority and Women …

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Governor Laura Kelly Proclaims November 13-19 “Apprenticeship Week” in Kansas
November 16, 2022

~Highlights First Apprenticeship Summit in Topeka on November 17~ TOPEKA –On October 28, Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation spotlighting the continued growth of the Kansas Registered Apprenticeship Program and declaring this week as Apprenticeship …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $850,000 for Kansas Entrepreneurs
November 15, 2022

~Commerce GROWKS Programs Leverage $4M to Support Small Businesses~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today the first round of recipients of funding from the GROWKS Loan and Equity programs, which help small businesses, particularly those …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Job-Seekers to Attend Statewide Virtual Job Fair
November 14, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly invites job-seekers and employers to participate in the upcoming Statewide Virtual Job fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 16, to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, November 17.   “Every day businesses …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Kansas Poet Laureate
November 10, 2022

~K-State Professor Traci Brimhall will Begin Service as Kansas Poet Laureate in 2023~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) has selected Traci Brimhall as the 2023-2026 Poet …

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Kansas Main Street Program Seeking New Communities, Hosting Application Workshop
November 7, 2022

TOPEKA – The Kansas Main Street program announced today it is seeking new communities to join the program in 2023. On Monday, November 14, at 10 a.m., the program will host a virtual application workshop for …

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Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $16M to Expand Broadband in Rural Kansas
November 4, 2022

~Funding will Connect Nearly 2,000 Homes, Businesses, Schools to Internet~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today $15.7 million will be awarded to seven service providers that will bring high-speed broadband service to underserved, economically …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Expansion of Salina Pizza Manufacturer
November 3, 2022

~Schwan’s Expansion Fuels 225 Jobs and is Part of $600M Investment~ SALINA – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Salina community leaders to celebrate Schwan’s Company’s announcement that it will expand the refrigeration distribution center at its …

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Governor Laura Kelly Joins Panasonic Energy to Break Ground on $4B, 4,000-Job Electric Vehicle Battery Plant
November 2, 2022

De Soto – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd. and De Soto leaders to break ground on one of the largest electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facilities of its kind in the United States. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $1M For Central Kansas Affordable Housing Development
November 1, 2022

RUSSELL – Governor Laura Kelly today announced $1 million will be going to the City of Russell to increase affordable and moderate-income housing options in central Kansas. Russell is using the funds, allocated through the bipartisan House …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $28M Olathe Laboratory to Add 175 New Jobs
October 31, 2022

OLATHE – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that KCAS Bioanalytical and Biomarker Services has opened a $28 million laboratory in Olathe that will create 175 new jobs for Kansans. Kansas Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Paul Hughes …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Nearly $2M to Boost Tourism Industry
October 28, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas Tourism, in partnership with the Patterson Family Foundation, is providing nearly $2 million to eight tourism projects across the state to enhance the state’s growing tourism industry. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Semiconductor Company Investing $4M, Creating 30 Jobs Near Manhattan
October 27, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Radiation Detection Technologies, Inc. (RDT), a semiconductor device manufacturer, is expanding its operations around Manhattan. The company will create 30 new jobs over the next five years with …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon at URBN Distribution Center
October 26, 2022

~$400M investment fuels 2,000 Kansas Jobs~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today welcomed some of America’s most iconic retail brands – including Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie – at a ribbon-cutting for URBN’s new 1.5 million square-foot …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 2022 Award of Excellence and Exporter of the Year Recipients
October 21, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Salina-based Vortex Global has won the 2022 Governor’s Award of Excellence and Textron Aviation in Wichita earned the Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award. Businesses and individuals from …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 12 “Rural Champions” Leading Local Community Efforts
October 18, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the 12 grant recipients of the Rural by Choice Champions Program (Rural Champions) that launched earlier this year in collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundation. The selected Rural Champions …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Aerospace Manufacturing Facility Coming to South Central Kansas
October 17, 2022

~Pinnacle Aerospace’s $14.7M Investment in Wellington will Create 155 New Jobs~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that aerospace parts manufacturer Pinnacle Aerospace, LLC, will be investing $14.7 million in a new facility in …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Grand Opening of Salina Construction Equipment Manufacturing Plant
October 14, 2022

SALINA – Governor Laura Kelly today joined representatives of Great Plains Manufacturing and Kubota Corporation for the grand opening of a new construction equipment manufacturing facility in Salina. The $178 million investment by Great Plains to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansans to Participate in Upcoming Virtual Job Fair for State Employment
October 14, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansans currently searching for employment or looking to make a career change to participate in the next KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair, which takes place from 8:00 a.m. to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Groundbreaking of Central Kansas Manufacturing Incubator
October 13, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the groundbreaking of the Grow Hays MicroFactory, an incubator for manufacturers in Central Kansas. The 30,000 square-foot facility is one of 35 infrastructure investment projects made possible by the …

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Kansas Tourism Announces 15 Tourism Marketing Grant Award Recipients
October 7, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism has announced the Tourism Marketing Grant Program recipients for 2022. The Tourism Marketing Grant is an ongoing grant program designed to assist tourism organizations or businesses with new and innovative advertising …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Lenexa Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory Will Add 235 New Jobs
October 6, 2022

LENEXA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that Eurofins Viracor, a global leader in clinical diagnostic services, is opening a state-of-the-art laboratory in Lenexa that will create 235 new jobs. Eurofins Viracor held a ribbon-cutting …

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As Private Investment in Kansas Tops $14B, Governor Laura Kelly Wraps Up Statewide Prosperity on the Plains Tour
October 5, 2022

~Kelly Administration Lands Eco Devo Projects in 80% of Kansas Counties~ TOPEKA – As new private sector investment in Kansas since 2019 tops $14 billion, Governor Laura Kelly today wrapped up her statewide economic development …

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Governor Laura Kelly Joins Pratt Industries For Grand Opening of Park City Plant
October 3, 2022

~Company’s $200M Investment Will Create 58 New Jobs~ PARK CITY – Today Governor Laura Kelly joined officials from Pratt Industries as they opened their new state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing corrugated box plant in Park City. The plant …

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Governor Laura Kelly Breaks Ground on Hilmar Cheese Facility in Dodge City
September 30, 2022

~Facility Will Bring $1.1 Billion and 1,000 New Jobs to Southwest Kansas~ DODGE CITY – Today, Governor Laura Kelly participated in the groundbreaking of Hilmar Cheese Company’s new state-of-the-art production facility in Dodge City. In the …

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Registration Closing Wednesday for 2022 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference
September 26, 2022

TOPEKA — Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today said there still is time to register for the upcoming 2022 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference. Those interested, however, will need to act quickly. Registrations …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Funding to Help Kansas Small Businesses Participate in Global Trade
September 23, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on its announcement of a $200,000 award to the Kansas Department of Commerce.  The award will be used by the agency’s International Division …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Small Business Research & Development Grant Program
September 22, 2022

TOPEKA – Today Governor Laura Kelly announced a new program that will help Kansas small businesses innovate, bring new products and services to market, and compete at a global level. The Small Business Research & Development …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Goodyear Tire Investing $125 Million in Topeka, Adding 40 New Jobs
September 21, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co.’s decision to invest $125 million and hire 40 new employees at its Topeka plant as part of modernizing its Kansas facility, which …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Job-Seekers to Attend Statewide Virtual Job Fair
September 19, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly invites job seekers and employers to participate in the next Statewide Virtual Job fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 21, to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, September 22. “Just …

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Governor Laura Kelly’s Administration Signs Significant Wheat Deal with Taiwan
September 16, 2022

TOPEKA – During a state visit from a Taiwanese delegation, officials from the east Asian country agreed to purchase 66 million bushels of wheat from U.S. farmers over the next two years. The grain deal, which …

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New Kansas Tourism Video Showcases Racing in Kansas
September 12, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism has released the latest chapter in its ongoing Story Series. Full Throttle and Full Heart: Kansas Racing features Kansas native drivers sharing the magic of racing in Kansas. “The racing industry is a valuable part …

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Kansas Surpasses 50,000 Jobs Created and Retained Since Start of Kelly Administration
September 12, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since she took office in January 2019, her administration has worked with private-sector businesses in creating and retaining more than 50,000 jobs in Kansas. This milestone continues the …

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Commerce and Patterson Family Foundation Announce More Funding Available for Revitalizing Downtown Buildings
September 7, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced a second round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants intended for revitalizing downtown buildings in small communities across the state. The HEAL program, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Establishes Office of Registered Apprenticeship
September 6, 2022

~Executive Order Expands Administration’s Workforce Development Efforts~ TOPEKA – Today, on the heels of Labor Day, Governor Laura Kelly signed Executive Order #22-07 establishing the Office of Registered Apprenticeship within the Kansas Department of Commerce. …

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Proof of Concept Applications Open through the End of September
September 6, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that Proof of Concept (POC) applications for the first quarter of fiscal year 2023 are being accepted through Friday, September 30. The POC …

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Demand High for Investments in State’s Broadband Infrastructure
August 30, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly’s goal of connecting all Kansans to high-speed broadband internet has piqued the interest of individuals and communities throughout Kansas. It also has garnered strong attention from providers seeking to make …

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Governor Laura Kelly Touts Kansas as a Wind Energy Leader
August 29, 2022

~Department of Energy Report Finds State Ranks Third in Wind Energy Generation~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today touted Kansas as a leader in wind energy, citing the recently released Wind Energy Market Report from the U.S. …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Announces New Grant Opportunity to Support Economic Development in Smaller Communities
August 24, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced a new grant opportunity today that will help support economic development and revitalization efforts in smaller communities across Kansas through investments in quality-of-life initiatives. The …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces JTM Foods is Expanding in Wichita
August 24, 2022

WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that JTM Foods, LLC has chosen Wichita as the new home of JJ’s Snack Pies, a popular treat available at many of the nation’s largest retailers, and has broken ground on a new manufacturing facility in the ict21 Industrial District. JTM Foods plans to hire 150 people within the next two years and invest $40 million in the Wichita facility.

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State of Kansas Agency-Wide Virtual Job Fair On August 24
August 22, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly encourages Kansans currently seeking employment to participate in the next KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair, which takes place from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 24. The virtual fair will …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Phase III Expansion Facility at the KU Innovation Park
August 17, 2022

LAWRENCE – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated the dedication of the Phase III Expansion Facility at the KU Innovation Park. Formerly the Bioscience and Technology Business Center, the KU Innovation Park is an economic development organization …

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Commerce Department Launches Rural by Choice Champions Program
August 10, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced a unique opportunity for rural communities throughout the state – the Rural by Choice Champions Program (Rural Champions). This one-year pilot program will create …

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Department of Commerce Seeks Partners to Administer Programs that Boost Financial Self-Sufficiency
August 10, 2022

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce is seeking qualified organizations to administer Individual Development Account (IDA) programs in communities throughout the state. The Kansas IDA program allows administering organizations to provide qualified low-income Kansans …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on North America’s Largest Wheat Protein Plant
August 9, 2022

~Phillipsburg Facility Is a $250M+ Investment that Will Create 60+ Jobs~ PHILLIPSBURG – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Amber Wave, a leader in sustainable agriculture, food ingredients, and low-carbon fuels, to cut the ribbon on …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Applications Open for the 2023-2026 Poet Laureate of Kansas
August 4, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that applications are open for the next Poet Laureate of Kansas. The Poet Laureate of Kansas is an honorary position designed to promote the reading and writing of poetry …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Cybersecurity Company to Move Headquarters to Kansas
July 29, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced cybersecurity company Novacoast is relocating its corporate headquarters to Wichita from Santa Barbara, California. The company plans to bring 100 new high-tech jobs to the state and help …

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Commerce Department, Patterson Family Foundation Team Up to Help Downtown Areas Throughout Kansas
July 26, 2022

TOPEKA – It is a familiar sight in smaller Kansas communities throughout the state: vibrant downtown districts whose allure is somewhat diminished by one or two vacant or dilapidated buildings. In many cases, a major barrier …

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To The Stars: Celebrating Kansas Businesses 2022 Nominations Open  
July 20, 2022

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2022 To The Stars: Celebrating Kansas Businesses Awards. The annual awards program recognizes businesses across the state for the valuable contributions they make to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Registration Open for 2022 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference  
July 20, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that registration for the 2022 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference is now open. The conference is an annual event held by the Kansas Department of Commerce to showcase the latest …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Funding for Murals in 14 Rural Communities  
July 19, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced 14 communities will receive funding through the Office of Rural Prosperity’s Rural Mural and Public Art grant program. The $93,500 in grants enables communities with fewer than 10,000 …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Statewide Virtual Job Fair July 20-21, 2022  
July 19, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Statewide Virtual Job fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, will take place from 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 20, to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 21. “In June, Kansas reported the …

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Kansas Tourism Releases New Story Series Episode that Explores the State’s Natural History
July 18, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism has released an inspiring promotional video exploring the state’s rich natural history and examining the fossils and rocks that tell the story of an ancient ocean-covered Kansas. Secret Kansas: Uncovering Our …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 21,000 More Kansas Homes Will Soon Be Connected to High-Speed Internet
July 14, 2022

~$83.5M in Grants Are Available to Expand Broadband Access in High-Need Areas~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that more than 21,000 Kansas homes and businesses are set to receive high-speed internet access for …

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Kansas Lands $4B, 4,000-Job Panasonic Energy Electric Vehicle Battery Plant
July 13, 2022

~Governor Laura Kelly Successfully Wins Largest Economic Development Project in State History~ Topeka, Kan. – July 13, 2022 – Today, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., plans to build one of …

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Governor Laura Kelly Awards Over $4M in Tax Credits to 29 Kansas Nonprofits
July 12, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today awarded $4.1 million in Community Service Tax Credits (CSP) to bolster the fundraising efforts of 29 nonprofit organizations across Kansas that improve local access to quality child care, healthcare, education, …

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Kansas Surpasses $9 Billion in New Economic Development Investment Since Start of Kelly Administration
June 27, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since she took office in January 2019, Kansas has attracted over $9 billion in new investments by private sector businesses. This milestone continues the record-breaking economic development success Kansas …

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Governor Laura Kelly Promotes Rural Economic Development with Stops in Independence and Cherryvale
June 20, 2022

~Governor Kelly Breaks Ground on Soybean Processing Facility, Tours Small Business and Celebrates the Grand Opening of Office of Rural Prosperity Facility~ MONTGOMERY COUNTY – Today, Governor Laura Kelly celebrated new beginnings for rural economic development …

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Nominations Open for Minority and Women Enterprise Development Awards
June 20, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Department of Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced the call for nominations for the 2022 Kansas Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week Awards. The annual awards are just one way the Department …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansans to Explore State Agency Career Opportunities Through Virtual Job Fair  
June 17, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly invites all Kansans seeking employment to participate in the next KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair, which will focus on state agency job openings. The virtual fair will take place from 8:00 a.m. to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Ceremonially Signs Bill Providing Tax Credits to Support Aviation Workforce Development
June 15, 2022

~Joins Business Leaders and Bipartisan Legislators in Wichita to Celebrate Investment in Key Kansas Industry~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly joined legislators and aviation industry leaders at the National Center for Aviation Training in Wichita …

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KANSAS! Magazine Wins Gold at International Awards
June 15, 2022

TOPEKA – KANSAS! Magazine has received a Gold Award for its history feature titled “200 Years of the Santa Fe Trail” at the 42nd annual International Regional Magazine Association (IRMA) awards presentation. The award-winning feature, published …

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The Smoke Show: Kansas Tourism Releases New Story Series Episode Featuring BBQ
June 13, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism has released a new Story Series episode, this time showcasing Kansas barbecue pit masters and mouth-watering smoked meat from across the state. Viewers are advised not to watch the video hungry. Episode …

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Nadira Hazim-Patrick and Victor Follis named Commerce Employees of the Year
June 8, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced Nadira Hazim-Patrick and Victor Follis have been named as the Department of Commerce’s Employees of the Year for 2021. “Nadira works vigorously to promote and manage …

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Kansas Wins Prestigious Gold Shovel Award for Economic Development Excellence for Second Consecutive Year
June 6, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas has won Area Development magazine’s coveted 2022 Gold Shovel Award, marking the second year in a row the state has received this national recognition for excellence in economic development.   “For the …

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Lt. Governor Toland Announces Two New Directors
June 1, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced two new hires for the agency. Jade Piros de Carvalho will serve as the new Director of the Office of Broadband Development, and Patrick …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Recipients of $10 Million Investment Expanding Broadband Access Across Rural Kansas
May 20, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the 11 recipients of the Broadband Acceleration Grant program resulting in more than $10 million of investment in high-speed broadband access across 10 rural Kansas counties. “We’re continuing …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Tourism Attraction Development Grant Recipients
May 16, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today the 11 recipients of the Kansas Tourism Attraction Development Grants. The grants were presented by Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland on Friday, May 13, at an …

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Governor Laura Kelly Names Manufacturer KanPak Winner of Kansas’ Top Business Award
May 12, 2022

~Honors Business Leaders at Inaugural To the Stars: Celebrating Kansas Business Banquet~ TOPEKA – Yesterday, Governor Laura Kelly announced KanPak, an Arkansas City-based manufacturing company, is the winner of the 2021 Governor’s Award of Excellence, the …

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Governor Kelly Announces Upcoming Statewide Virtual Job Fair
May 10, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly encourages Kansans to participate in the next KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair. The virtual job fair will take place from 8 a.m. on Wednesday, May 18 to 5 p.m. on …

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Lt. Governor Toland Announces Appointments to Kansas Apprenticeship Council
May 5, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced appointees to the Kansas Apprenticeship Council (KAC). These appointments are a significant step towards modernizing the Registered Apprenticeship program in Kansas. “Registered Apprenticeships …

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Lt. Governor Toland Announces Applications Open for Rural Mural and Public Art Program
May 2, 2022

Topeka – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced that grant applications are open for the Rural Mural and Public Art program. The Kansas Department of Commerce will provide matching funds for communities to create …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Launch of Startup Housing Program
April 21, 2022

~Assistance Available for Housing Developers to Jumpstart Projects, Address Rural Housing Shortage~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the launch of a new housing program for developers to help address the housing needs of …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 127 New Jobs, $110 Million Investment in Olathe
April 19, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Lineage Logistics is opening a new automated, next generation distribution center for Smithfield Foods, Inc., a vertically integrated food company and the world’s largest pork processor. The …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Largest Economic Development Investment in Kelly Administration History
April 18, 2022

~$650 Million in Business Investment in Kansas Economy, 500 New High-Paying Jobs in Manhattan~ MANHATTAN – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced her administration’s most significant economic development project to date. Scorpion Biological Services, a subsidiary …

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Department of Commerce Virtual Job Fair
April 14, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today encouraged Kansans considering a new career to learn about job openings at the Department of Commerce during a KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair. The virtual …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announced Three Communities Rejoining Kansas Main Street Program
April 14, 2022

~Great Bend, Hays, and Salina rejoin Kansas Main Street Program, which targets preservation and revitalization of downtown districts~ SALINA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that the communities of Great Bend, Hays, and Salina will return …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Infrastructure Project Funding Grant Awardees
April 13, 2022

~The Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) Grants Will Provide 35 Organizations Funding for Infrastructure Investment Projects Making Local Economies Stronger~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $100 million is going toward 35 infrastructure …

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Governor Laura Kelly Recognizes National Community Development Week
April 11, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed April 11-15 as National Community Development Week in Kansas. This week will celebrate the critical value community development programs and resources bring to our state.  “Community development efforts are …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Communities Join Economic Development and Revitalization Program
April 11, 2022

~Eureka, Newton, Topeka, and Valley Center Join Kansas Main Street Program~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the cities of Eureka, Newton, Topeka, and Valley Center are the newest Kansas Main Street Program members. …

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Kansas Tourism Wins Two National Awards For Marketing Excellence
March 23, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, recently won Gold at the 30th Annual North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces First Round of Grants to Support Tourism and Economic Development
March 17, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the first-round of 2022 funding recipients for the Tourism Marketing Grant Program (TMGP). The TMGP, administered by Kansas Tourism, assists Destination Marketing Organizations, tourism communities and travel industry …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $20 Million in Business Investment and 150 New Jobs in Wichita
March 15, 2022

~ Fagron Sterile Services, a Health Care Supply Manufacturing Facility Expanding in Sedgwick County~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Fagron Sterile Services’ (FSS) new expansion in Wichita which will result in more than …

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Proof of Concepts Applications Open through the End of the Month
March 14, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Kansas Innovation & Technology Enterprises (KITE) Proof of Concept (POC) applications for the third quarter of fiscal year 2022 are being …

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Applications Open for Community Service Tax Credit Program
March 8, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that applications are currently being accepted for the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). CSP provides an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public health care entities to …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Statewide Engagement Sessions
March 7, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced that the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) is engaging communities in the creation of a statewide strategic plan for developing the creative arts …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Ranked First in Nation for Most Economic Development Investment Per Capita
March 2, 2022

~Governor Kelly Receives Site Selection Magazine’s Prestigious Governor’s Cup Award~ WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas won Site Selection Magazine’s 2021 Governor’s Cup for the state with the most economic development investment per …

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Lieutenant Governor Toland Announces Public Comment Period for the Broadband Acceleration Grants
February 28, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced the opening of a public comment period for the Broadband Acceleration Grants. The Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD), a division of the Kansas Department …

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Governor Laura Kelly Recognizes Kansas Business for Winning National Economic Development Award
February 24, 2022

~Hill’s Pet Nutrition Recognized for Deal of the Year Impact Award~ TONGANOXIE – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Hill’s Pet Nutrition and the Kansas Department of Commerce for being nationally recognized with a Business Facilities …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansans to Participate in Statewide Job Fair
February 15, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly encourages Kansans to participate in this week’s KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair. The Virtual Job Fair will take place from 8 a.m. Wednesday, February 16, to 5 p.m. Thursday, February 17.  “This is an excellent …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces More than $17 Million in Grants to Support Redevelopment Efforts for Rural Communities
February 11, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced 40 rural Kansas communities will receive Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) totaling more than $17.6 million to help support critical community development projects.  “These grants will help our communities improve public safety, revitalize vital infrastructure and maximize …

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Governor Laura Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill, Strengthening Economic Development Toolkit
February 10, 2022

~Legislation Could Help Kansas Land Biggest Private Sector Investment in State’s History~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today signed the bipartisan bill known as Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion Act (APEX). The bipartisan bill creates a new tool in Kansas’ toolbox that allows the state to compete on a national and global scale for large economic …

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Governor Laura Kelly announces Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) Grant Application
January 31, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly, today, announced the launch of the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) program. BASE is a new grant opportunity to help support infrastructure development and advance economic development opportunities across Kansas. …

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Kansas Tourism Invites Everyone to Help Celebrate Kansas’ Birthday
January 24, 2022

TOPEKA– Kansas Day is this Saturday, January 29, and Kansas Tourism is inviting everyone to help celebrate our state’s 161st birthday. This annual commemoration of Kansas’ statehood is designed to help us reflect on our …

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Governor Opens Nominations for Exporter of the Year Award
January 14, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the call for nominations for the 2022 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award.The Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award is the highest honor the Governor of Kansas awards …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $1.5 Million Available in Tourism Grants
January 13, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a new grant opportunity to help communities develop or enhance tourism attractions to boost their local economies. “Our tourism industry supports Kansas jobs, injects millions into our economy …

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Inaugural Kansas soybean shipment delivered to China
January 10, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today congratulated Kansas grain wholesaler The DeLong Co. on its recent shipment of 500 metric tons of soybeans to Henan Shennong Extruded Feed Technology Co. in Henan, China – the …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Hosting Virtual Job Fair for Open Positions
January 10, 2022

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today encouraged job seekers to participate in the January 12 KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair, which will feature openings at the Kansas Department of Commerce. The …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Broadband Acceleration Grant Program Submission Window
December 15, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced the application window for Broadband Acceleration Grant Program submissions. “Access to high-speed internet is critical for Kansans to access health care, education, and compete in an increasingly digital economy,” …

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Statewide Virtual Job Fair to Be Held December 8-9
December 7, 2021

TOPEKA – This week marks the next KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair. Kansans seeking employment opportunities are encouraged to participate in the Virtual Job Fair beginning at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, December 8 and ending …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates 2021 Governor’s Exporter of the Year
December 6, 2021

~Black & Veatch, Overland Park based company, awarded prestigious honor~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Black & Veatch as the winner of the 2021 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, the top export …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 2021 Most Successful Business Year in Kansas History
December 1, 2021

~Since 2019, the Kelly Administration has secured nearly $7.5 billion new business dollars invested in the state, supporting over 40,000 new or retained jobs~ WICHITA– Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has topped $3.5 billion …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Over 500 New Jobs in Overland Park
November 18, 2021

~Charter Communications, leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator, to invest $18.9 million in Overland Park community~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Charter Communications’ plan to open a new customer retention center in Overland …

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Governor Laura Kelly Recognizes Apprenticeship Week in Kansas
November 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly recently signed a proclamation spotlighting the importance of Kansas’ Registered Apprenticeship Program and declaring this week, November 15-21, as Apprenticeship Week throughout the state. “The Registered Apprenticeship Program connects skilled …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Governor’s Tourism Award Winner
November 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today congratulated Roger Hrabe, Rooks County Economic Development Director, on receiving the Governor’s Tourism Award. The Governor announced the prestigious award during the annual Kansas Tourism Conference in Liberal. “Our …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $3.5 Million in New Funding for Kansas Tourism Initiatives
November 10, 2021

~Kansas Tourism to use funds to revitalize and enhance the tourism industry~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has received $3.5 million in grant funding from the United States Department of Commerce’s Economic …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 60 New Jobs in Lenexa
November 10, 2021

~Collins Aerospace to expand operations in Lenexa, invest $55 million in community~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated Collins Aerospace’s expansion of its Lenexa operations, which will create 60 new jobs. The new Collins Aerospace …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Hosting Virtual Job Fair for Open Positions
November 9, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today encouraged Kansans considering a new career to check out job openings at the Department of Commerce during a KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair. The virtual …

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New Grant Program Launches for Historic Building Revitalization
November 4, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced a new grant program that will move quickly to help revitalize underutilized, vacant and dilapidated downtown buildings in rural Kansas communities. The Historic Economic …

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Lieutenant Governor Toland Congratulates Rhonda Harris on “Women of Influence” Award
October 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland congratulated Rhonda Harris today on being named the Distinguished Mentor Honoree at the Seventh Annual Women of Influence Awards. Harris received the honor Thursday at the …

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Kansas Department of Commerce International Division Receives more than $160,000 for Export Development
October 26, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announcement of a $163,617 award to the Kansas Department of Commerce’s International Division through SBA’s competitive State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Through …

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KANSAS! Magazine Wins Gold at International Awards
October 25, 2021

TOPEKA – KANSAS! magazine received a Gold Award for its cover titled “Kansas Trailblazer” at the 41st annual International Regional Magazine Association (IRMA) awards presentation. The illustrated cover, published in fall 2020, was an original art …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Surpasses $7 Billion in New Business Dollars Invested in the State
October 21, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that since she took office in January 2019, more than $7 billion new business dollars have been invested in the state of Kansas and over 29,000 new jobs …

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Governor Laura Kelly Honors Kansas Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses For Economic Contributions, Opportunities
October 20, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today honored minority- and woman-owned businesses and others who help them achieve success as part of Kansas Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week. “I am impressed by the outstanding accomplishments and …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Main Street Program Expansion
October 19, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced plans to expand the Kansas Main Street Program by up to three additional communities this Winter.    “When our main street businesses succeed, our whole economy succeeds,” said Governor …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 100 New Jobs in Bonner Springs
October 14, 2021

~Medline Industries, Inc. to invest $77.5 million for new distribution center~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Medline, the country’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of medical supplies, will invest $77.5 million …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $5.7 Million Business Investment in Wichita
October 14, 2021

~Mid-Continent Aviation Services will create over 20 jobs and construct new hangar at Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Mid-Continent Aviation Services’ plan to expand their current footprint and …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 50 New Jobs in Montgomery County
October 12, 2021

~Agribusiness Bartlett to invest $325 million in Southeast Kansas to create new soybean facility~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded plans from Bartlett, a Savage Company, to invest $325 million in a large soybean …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Program to Strengthen Kansas’ Manufacturing Supply Chain
October 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the official launch of CONNEX™ Kansas, a new program from Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS) and the Kansas Department of Commerce, designed to strengthen the Kansas manufacturing supply chain. CONNEX™ …

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Lt. Governor Toland Announces Paul Hughes as Deputy Commerce Secretary
October 4, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced Paul Hughes as new Deputy Secretary for Business Development for the Kansas Department of Commerce. Hughes will direct efforts to drive the growth of existing …

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Governor Kelly Encourages Participation in Statewide Virtual Job Fair
September 28, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansans looking for employment to participate in this week’s KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair. The virtual job fair that begins at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 29, and …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates International Division at Kansas Department of Commerce on Receiving Outstanding Service Award
September 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today congratulated the Kansas Department of Commerce’s International Division for being named an Outstanding Service Provider by the World Trade Center – Kansas City (WTC-KC) for the first time ever. “Congratulations …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Joins Bipartisan, Multi-State National Security Initiative
September 21, 2021

~Kansas and Missouri join National Security Crossroads to improve national security in Heartland region~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly and Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced the launch of the National Security Crossroads, a bipartisan, multi-state …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Expansion at Berry Global Group, Inc. to Create 84 Jobs
September 14, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Berry Global Group, Inc. in Lawrence to celebrate a major project expansion that will create 84 new jobs and invest $61 million in the community. “Berry Global Group, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Receives National Economic Development Recognition
September 13, 2021

~ Kansas breaks into Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas has received Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition for 2021 – …

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Governor Laura Kelly Proclaims September as Workforce Development Professionals Month
September 2, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation recognizing September as Workforce Development Professionals Month in Kansas. “Our workforce development professionals work tirelessly to connect skilled workers with open jobs, strengthening our economy and …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on Superior Boiler Expansion Project in Hutchinson
September 1, 2021

HUTCHINSON – Today, Governor Laura Kelly joined Superior Boiler to cut the ribbon on their new 73,000-square-foot facility – totaling a $2,786,000 business investment – in Hutchinson, Kansas. “Superior Boiler’s expansion in Kansas is more …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Grant Program to Support Non-Profit Arts Organizations
August 30, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced new grant program designed to help non-profit arts organizations in Kansas recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. “These grants will provide immediate help for non-profit arts organizations across Kansas,” …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 250 New Jobs in Emporia
August 18, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Communications Solutions, LLC (CSLLC) will expand its operations to Emporia, Kansas, creating 250 new jobs. “Our partnership with CSLCC, which will create 250 new jobs in Emporia, is …

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Commerce announces upcoming Certified Sites workshops
August 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced a series of upcoming training sessions for the Kansas Certified Sites program. These three virtual trainings will provide an opportunity to learn more about …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Local Workforce Area II West Receives Prestigious Award for Veteran Service
August 13, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) recently awarded Kansas’ Local Workforce Area II West with the Mark Sanders Award for Exceptional Service to Veterans. “Kansas veterans …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 75 New Jobs Coming to Wichita
August 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Brek Manufacturing Company’s plan to expand its operation into the state of Kansas. The Southern California-based aerospace company announced that it intends to purchase two buildings in Wichita, investing …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Report to Prevent Outmigration and Strengthen Kansas’ Workforce and Economy
August 2, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced the results of a new report detailing the challenges facing young Kansans in rural communities along with possible solutions to prevent outmigration and strengthen Kansas’ workforce and economy. …

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Nationally acclaimed workshop on Downtown upper-floor projects coming to Kansas
July 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced that the Kansas Main Street program is bringing the nationally acclaimed Upstairs Downtown workshop to Hutchinson in August. The two-day workshop, taking place August …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $4 Million to Benefit 26 Kansas Nonprofit Organizations
July 15, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that 26 Kansas nonprofit organizations will receive more than $4 million in Community Service Tax Credits (CSP) to improve and enhance fundraising efforts for education, healthcare, childcare and …

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Dodge City Business Park named shovel ready for development
July 14, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced Dodge City Business Park has become the latest developed site to be certified through Kansas’ Certified Sites program. This is a result of a new …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $4 Million in Community Development Block Grants to Promote Job Retention for Small Businesses
July 9, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today the third round of Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response Supplement (CDBG-CV) awards, distributing nearly $4 million to 25 Kansas communities to promote business retention for small businesses …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Business Recruitment Partnership with the State of Kansas
July 7, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced an exciting new partnership between the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Certified Sites program and Kansas-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, which will increase the number of shovel-ready development sites …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates Kansas Poet Laureate Huascar Medina on National Recognition
July 2, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today congratulated Huascar Medina, Poet Laureate of Kansas, on his recent nomination by President Joe Biden to be a member of the National Council on the Arts.  The National Council …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Poet Laureate Program Returns to Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission
July 1, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the return of the Poet Laureate program to the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC). “Promoting the humanities preserves the legacy of the generations that came before us, inspires the …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Applications Open for Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit Program
July 1, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced applications are being accepted for Kansas startups seeking investment through the Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit (KAITC) program for 2021. Through bipartisan Senate Bill 66, the Angels program …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $28 Million Investment, 37 New Jobs in Manhattan
June 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today congratulated Bev-Hub on its new facility in Manhattan. Bev-Hub, a Wichita-based manufacturer, is investing more than $28 million into the Manhattan community to renovate a former brewery to meet …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Surpasses $6 Billion in New Business Dollars Invested in the State
June 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that since she took office in January 2019, more than $6 billion new business dollars have been invested in the state of Kansas and 26,000 new jobs have …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on Animal Science Innovation Center in Topeka
June 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Hill’s Pet Nutrition Small Paws Innovation Center in Topeka. Hill’s Pet Nutrition invested $20 million to build this 25,000-square-foot nutrition facility that will …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 80 New Jobs in Tonganoxie
June 22, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s plan to build a new pet food manufacturing plant in Tonganoxie. Hill’s will invest more than $250 million to construct a new 300,000-square-foot facility, bringing …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Launch of My Reemployment Plan
June 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the launch of My Reemployment Plan, a program designed to support Kansans with job-search efforts. “My Reemployment Plan is a great tool to provide Kansans with the resources …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Dairy Ingredients Expansion to Create 40 Jobs, $45 Million Investment in Hugoton
June 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas Dairy Ingredients (KDI) Cheese Company will expand its operations in Southwest Kansas, creating 40 new jobs and investing $45 million new business dollars in the Hugoton …

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Kansas Ranked as Number One Business Climate in West North Central Region
June 14, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Kansas was recognized by Site Selection magazine as having the top business climate in the West North Central region of the United States in 2021. In 2020, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates Creekstone Farms as Governor’s Exporter of the Year
June 10, 2021

ARKANSAS CITY – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, LLC. in Arkansas City to honor the company for being named the 2020 Governor’s Exporter of the Year. “With its designation as Exporter of the …

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Kansas Wins Prestigious 2021 Gold Shovel Award for Economic Development Excellence
June 10, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the State of Kansas has been honored for its commitment to excellence in economic development by receiving Area Development magazine’s coveted Gold Shovel award for 2021, the highest …

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Lieutenant Governor/Commerce Secretary Toland announces key appointments
June 9, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced two key staff appointments along with the establishment of the new Office of Innovation at the Kansas Department of Commerce. “This is a dynamic …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Airxcel Expansion to Create Nearly 370 Jobs in Wichita
June 2, 2021

WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Airxcel in Wichita to celebrate a major project that will create 365 jobs and invest more than $4 million in the community. “Airxcel is a classic success story in Wichita’s manufacturing sector, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 450 New Jobs in Overland Park
May 13, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the announcement that TTEC Holdings, Inc., a world leader in global digital customer experience technology and services, will create 450 new jobs in Overland Park. The company is …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 132 new Jobs in Neodesha
May 13, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that London-based Sicut Enterprises has selected Neodesha as the site of their new North American manufacturing hub, projected to create 132 new full-time jobs over the next five …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Economic Development Week; State Surpasses $5 Billion in New Capital Investment
May 11, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas will participate in Economic Development Week, an annual celebration hosted by the International Economic Development Council. “Over the last two years, we’ve rebuilt the Department of Commerce and …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 490 New Jobs in Leawood, Kansas
May 7, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly applauded the announcement of a major investment in Leawood from Torch.AI, a global leader in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The company will invest $45 million and create 490 …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 247 New Jobs in Dodge City, Kansas
May 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the announcement from Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc. of their plan to build a major production facility in Dodge City. The new $460 million investment is slated to create …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission to hold webinar series for military artists
May 5, 2021

TOPEKA – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) will present a virtual Artist INC Express workshop for military servicemembers, veterans and their family/caregivers living in Kansas who want to explore career options in creative …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week
May 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today signed a proclamation celebrating travel and tourism as an economic driver, business recruitment tool, and an important element of state and community pride. “The travel and tourism industry are …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansas Restaurants Apply for Restaurant Revitalization Fund Grants
May 4, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today urged Kansas restaurants and eligible businesses in the hospitality industry to apply for federal funding through the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). Registration for the RRF …

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansas Small Businesses to Apply for Paycheck Protection Program
April 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansas small businesses to continue to apply for the 2021 Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) ahead of the program’s extended deadline of May 31st. Kansans can continue to …

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Trisha Purdon named director of the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity
April 28, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Trisha Purdon will lead the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP). Purdon currently serves as the Executive Director of the Montgomery County Action Council, working hands on …

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Governor Laura Kelly Signs Military Family Bill
April 21, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly signed a bipartisan measure to help keep veterans and their families living and working in Kansas. House Bill 2066, the Occupational License Reciprocity bill, provides License Reciprocity – recognition …

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Governor Laura Kelly Wraps Up Economic Development Week of “Back to Work, Back to School” Tour
April 16, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly this week made stops around the state to celebrate economic successes and discuss Kansas’ continued economic recovery and workforce development efforts. These visits marked the beginning of Governor Kelly’s Back …

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Governor Laura Kelly Signs Bipartisan Legislation to Aid Kansas’s Economic Recovery
April 15, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly signed four bipartisan bills into law to drive economic growth and strengthen Kansas’ economy. Senate Bills 65, 66, 90, and 124 are part of Governor Kelly’s Growth Agenda, a …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission to host webinar for military artists
April 1, 2021

TOPEKA – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) of the Department of Commerce is hosting an upcoming webinar for Kansans in the military community looking to enter or strengthen a career in the arts. …

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Department of Commerce announces two new hires
April 1, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced the addition of two new key hires at the Kansas Department of Commerce to better serve and respond to the needs of Kansas businesses. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Kicks Off Reemployment Program, Visits Workforce Center
March 31, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Lenexa’s KANSASWORKS center to celebrate the relaunch of Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment Program (RESEA) and the return of in-person consultations in order to better serve the specific …

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Governor Laura Kelly Relocates Tourism to the Kansas Department of Commerce to Spur Economic Growth
March 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced the Kansas Tourism Division will officially be part of the Kansas Department of Commerce, in accordance with the Executive Reorganization Order (ERO) Governor Kelly submitted to the Kansas Legislature on …

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Stanley Adams named Commerce Employee of the Year
March 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced that Office of Broadband Development Director Stanley Adams is the Department of Commerce’s Employee of the Year for 2020. Adams was promoted to lead …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair Dedicates Day to Serving Veterans
March 22, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that, to support those in our state who have served in the armed forces, this month’s KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair will dedicate the first day to military veterans, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 167 New Jobs and $31 Million in New Capital Investment in Olathe
March 12, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly applauded the announcement from Accelerate360, a marketing, sales, logistics, and media conglomerate, that it will be expanding operations in Kansas with the opening of a 455,000 square-foot facility in …

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Governor Laura Kelly visits McFarland to Celebrate $5 million in Grants to Expand Broadband to Homes, Businesses Statewide
March 11, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that through the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program, 14 broadband improvement projects totaling $5 million will improve access to high-speed internet for homes and businesses in 18 communities statewide. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Pinnacle Technology, 2019 Kansas Exporter of the Year
March 11, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly, Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland and local officials from Lawrence celebrated Pinnacle Technology, the Governor’s 2019 Exporter of the Year winner, in a virtual ceremony. After the …

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Kansas Ranked 10th in Nation for Economic Development Projects Per Capita
March 9, 2021

TOPEKA – Kansas had the most dramatic jump in economic development success of any state in the country in 2020, according to Site Selection magazine. With 70 projects meeting the magazine’s criteria, Kansas ranked 10th …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Applications Are Open For Community Service Tax Credit Program
March 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that applications are currently being accepted for the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). “The Community Service Tax Program helps local nonprofit and healthcare organizations improve the health …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Main Street Program Additions
March 2, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced the selection of Atchison, Baldwin City, and Junction City as the newest members of the Kansas Main Street program, bringing the total number of designated Main Street communities in …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Novacoast to Bring 60 New Jobs to Wichita
February 25, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced cybersecurity company Novacoast’s investment in Wichita. Novacoast announced its intention to open a Security Operations Center in Wichita. The company plans to initially hire 60 employees with plans …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission to hold Informational Grant webinar today
February 24, 2021

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced that the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) will host an informational webinar to introduce the Kansas arts community to its field representative team and provide …

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Deputy Secretary of Commerce Bill Murphy designated Economic Development Master Practitioner
February 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Kansas Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Bill Murphy recently completed an Advanced Economic Development Leadership (AEDL) course, attaining the designation of Economic Development Master Practitioner (EDMP). Deputy Secretary Murphy is among fewer than …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Effort to Support Kansas Businesses in COVID-19 Recovery
February 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that funding provided to Kansas’ hospitality industry through the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund has been converted from bridge loans to grants. Originally established as a working …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair Begins Today
February 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the next KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair will begin today, Feb. 23. The fair will continue through Thursday, Feb. 25. The virtual fair will allow job seekers to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces new KANSASWORKS.com Site to Connect Job Seekers with Kansas Employers
February 22, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced the launch of the newly redesigned KANSASWORKS.com website to provide a more user-friendly experience for job seekers and employers. Dubbed KANSASWORKS: NextGen, the new site features an updated …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Nearly $14 Million in Grants for Rural Kansas Communities
February 11, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced 32 rural Kansas communities will receive a share of $13,864,149 in federal grants to assist with community development projects. Through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program facilitated …

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Governor Laura Kelly Applauds Eurofins Viracor on New, 110,000-Square-Foot Lenexa Facility
February 10, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the recent announcement from Eurofins Viracor of its new 110,000-square-foot, all-purpose facility in Lenexa. Eurofins Viracor, Inc. is a provider of clinical specialty laboratory results to medical providers, …

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Governor Kelly announces the Federal Paycheck Protection Program Reopens Applications for Forgivable Loans
February 5, 2021

TOPEKA – With the launch of 2021 Coronavirus relief programs, Governor Kelly today announced Kansans can begin submitting applications to the 2021 Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for forgivable loans to small businesses. “Kansas small …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Comprehensive ‘Framework for Growth’ Economic Development Strategy
February 4, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today unveiled Kansas’ new, comprehensive economic development strategic plan, the first of its kind in more than 30 years. The Kansas Framework for Growth is an aggressive strategy to align …

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Governor Laura Kelly Congratulates Plastikon on 50 New Jobs, Continued COVID-19 Response Efforts
January 28, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the announcement that Plastikon Industries will create 50 new positions at its high-tech plant in Lawrence as part of its ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.  The …

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Office of Rural Prosperity Announces Successful 2020 Initiatives in Annual Report
January 28, 2021

TOPEKA – Today Governor Laura Kelly, Lt. Governor David Toland, and Treasurer Lynn Rogers announced the release of the Office of Rural Prosperity’s (ORP) 2020 Annual Report. The report outlines ORP’s policy priorities and the …

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Governor Laura Kelly Proposes Agency Reorganization to Spur Economic Growth
January 25, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced her intent to submit an Executive Reorganization Order (ERO) to the Kansas Legislature relocating the State’s Tourism Division to the Kansas Department of Commerce. The move comes as …

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Governor Laura Kelly, Department of Commerce Seek Public Input for Broadband Office Grant Program
January 21, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce has established an opportunity for the public to learn more about the Office of Broadband Development’s Broadband Acceleration Grant program and provide …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Receives National Recognition for Wind Energy Production, Capacity
January 11, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the state of Kansas has once again been recognized as a national leader in wind energy, with Business Facilities Magazine noting lofty rankings for Kansas when compared …

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Commerce Secretary David Toland Sworn in as Lt. Governor of Kansas Today
January 4, 2021

TOPEKA – David Toland was sworn in as the 52nd Lieutenant Governor of Kansas in a ceremony today at the Kansas Statehouse.  Toland has served in the Kelly Administration as Secretary of Commerce since his …

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Year in Review: Despite Pandemic, Kelly Administration Reaches Historic Accomplishments
December 30, 2020

TOPEKA – As 2020 ends, the Kelly Administration highlights progress made in Kansas despite unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “As we enter 2021, it’s important that we do not let the events of …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Start to 2021 Exporter of the Year Award Nominations
December 23, 2020

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2021 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award. The Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award is the highest honor …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Intention to Appoint Commerce Secretary David Toland to Become Lieutenant Governor
December 14, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced her intention to appoint David Toland, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Commerce, to become her Lieutenant Governor when current Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers vacates the position in …

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Broadband Acceleration Grant Program now accepting submissions
December 11, 2020

TOPEKA – Prospective applicants for the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program at the Kansas Department of Commerce now may submit their intent to apply. The program was created to expand broadband access to rural and underserved …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Pretzels, LLC Production Facility in Lawrence
December 9, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a new Pretzels, LLC production facility in Lawrence. The company announced plans to build a 150,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Venture Park. The company worked closely with …

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Governor Laura Kelly Introduces Program to Provide Broadband Access to Rural and Underserved Communities
November 30, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the introduction of the new Broadband Acceleration Grant Program to expand broadband access to rural and underserved communities across the state. This year marks the first time in …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Three New Openings in Program to Revitalize Downtown Corridors, Strengthen Economic Development
November 23, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Kansas Main Street program will be accepting applications for up to three new communities in the state interested in joining. The Main Street program – designed to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Nearly 2,000 Small Businesses Recipients of $37.5 Million in Grants
November 19, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly today announced that nearly 2,000 Kansas small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic will receive a share of $37.5 million in Small Business Working Capital (SBWC) grants.

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Governor Kelly Recognizes Creekstone Farms as 2020 Kansas Exporter of the Year
November 19, 2020

TOPEKA –Governor Laura Kelly today recognized Creekstone Farms Premium Beef LLC as the winner of the 2020 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, the top export business award presented by the state. Creekstone was one …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Rural Economic Development Program
November 12, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the creation of the Kansas Main Street Affiliate Community Program, an initiative designed to introduce more Kansas communities to the resources and technical assistance offered through Kansas Main …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $2 Billion in New Capital Investment in 2020
November 11, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the State of Kansas has officially surpassed $2 billion in new capital investment in 2020. This investment is brought by new economic development projects driven by Governor …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $224,437 in Community Development Block Grant Award for Fort Scott
October 29, 2020

TOPEKA –Governor Laura Kelly today announced the award of Community Development Block Grants through the Kansas Department of Commerce to assist with a commercial redevelopment project in Fort Scott. The city of Fort Scott has …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Peerless Products Expansion to Create Over 100 Jobs in Iola
October 27, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated the announcement of Peerless Products, Inc., purchasing a 150,000-square-foot facility in Iola to expand its production capability. Peerless estimates the expansion will create 100 to 120 new full-time …

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KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair Begins Tuesday
October 26, 2020

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansans to participate in the sixth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair, which begins tomorrow, October 27 and will continue through Thursday, October 29. The virtual fair will allow job seekers …

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Governor Kelly Announces 250 Jobs with New Empirical Foods Facility in Garden City
October 23, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly Thursday announced the groundbreaking for a new Empirical Foods ground beef facility in Garden City. The planned facility, which is now the largest single investment in the company’s 40-year history, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates 90 New Jobs in Dodge City at Nor-Am Cold Storage Grand Opening
October 20, 2020

DODGE CITY – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the announcement of a new, 148,000-square-foot Nor-Am Cold Storage facility in Dodge City. This is the sixth facility in the Midwest for Nor-Am and second in Kansas, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Economic Development, Innovation at Groundbreaking for Kansas University BTBC Expansion
October 15, 2020

LAWRENCE – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the announcement of the Phase III expansion of the Bioscience & Technology Business Center (BTBC) at the University of Kansas, and introduction of the new KU Innovation Park. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Establishes Office of Broadband Development, Announces Nearly $50 Million in Grants for Broadband Access Expansion
October 8, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly today signed Executive Order #20-67 to establish the Office of Broadband Development and announced the distribution of nearly $50 million in Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG) funds to underserved communities across Kansas.

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Governor Laura Kelly Applauds Department of Commerce State Trade Expansion Program Grant Award
September 30, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on its announcement of a $127,400 award being presented to the Kansas Department of Commerce’s International Division through SBA’s competitive State Trade …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 78 New Jobs in Eudora
September 22, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the opening of a new Modern Manufacturing facility in Eudora. Modern Manufacturing is purchasing a building in Eudora’s Intech Business Park for …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 225 New Jobs in Salina
August 19, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Schwan’s Company, a leading food producer in the United States, will build a new 400,000-square-foot expansion at its pizza-manufacturing facility in Salina.

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Third KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair
August 19, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated the success of this year’s third KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair, which involved 189 employers and 1,182 jobseekers.

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Community Development Block Grant Recipients
August 19, 2020
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Governor Laura Kelly Applauds Great Plains Manufacturing Salina Expansion
August 19, 2020
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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Second Round of CARES Act Funding Applications to Open August 19 at 12:00 p.m.
August 19, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has announced businesses will soon be able to apply for a total of more than $130 million in grants to serve those most affected by the pandemic and for companies that …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces URBN Partnership to Create Up to 2,000 Jobs and Approximately $350 Million Kansas Investment
August 5, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Urban Outfitters’ Inc. (URBN) new 880,000-square-foot omni-channel distribution center will be located on ancillary land at Kansas Speedway in Wyandotte County. The partnership between the State of …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Department of Commerce’s Third KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair
July 28, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the third KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair will be held today, Tuesday, July 28, through Thursday, July 30. “We need to maintain a strong, healthy workforce in …

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56 Kansas Cities and Counties to Receive Community Development Block Grants to Support Coronavirus Response
July 23, 2020

Jul 23, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly announced today a second round of Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response Supplement (CDBG-CV) funds to 56 Kansas communities. A total of more than $7.2 million is being disbursed to assist communities affected by the pandemic and its economic effects. “I’m pleased to announce this additional round of resources […]

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56 Kansas Cities and Counties to Receive Community Development Block Grants to Support Coronavirus Response
July 23, 2020

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly announced today a second round of Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response Supplement (CDBG-CV) funds to 56 Kansas communities. A total of more than $7.2 million is being disbursed to assist communities …

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Governor Laura Kelly and Department of Commerce Launch New Kansas Certified Sites Program
July 22, 2020

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Department of Commerce’s launch of the new Kansas Certified Sites program, a critical tool that will help accelerate economic development efforts throughout the state. The program, originally created and …

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Governor Laura Kelly and Department of Commerce Launch New Kansas Certified Sites Program
July 21, 2020

Jul 21, 2020 TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Department of Commerce’s launch of the new Kansas Certified Sites program, a critical tool that will help accelerate economic development efforts throughout the state. The program, originally created and administered by the Kansas Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), lets developers know when the state has deemed a […]

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Governor Laura Kelly and Department of Commerce Launch New Kansas Certified Sites Program
July 21, 2020

Jul 21, 2020 TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Department of Commerce’s launch of the new Kansas Certified Sites program, a critical tool that will help accelerate economic development efforts throughout the state. The program, originally created and administered by the Kansas Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), lets developers know when the state has deemed a […]

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U.S. 50 T-WORKS project in Lyon County now underway
July 20, 2020

Jul 20, 2020 EMPORIA—Governor Laura Kelly and KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz broke ground on a U.S. 50 Highway expansion project today. This project announced under the previous transportation program, T-WORKS, was delayed in 2016 due to transfers from the State Highway Fund. “From Day One, my administration committed to rebuilding our infrastructure and putting an […]

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Governor Kelly Announces the Transfer of Direct Aid Funds to Kansas Counties
July 17, 2020

Jul 17, 2020 TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Office of Recovery’s disbursement of CARES Act funds to Kansas counties. As part of her administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Kelly is directing resources to county officials and local administrators to cover COVID-19 expenses for communities across Kansas. “We are putting these funds directly […]

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Governor Laura Kelly Visits Brookover Feed Yards, Thanks Kansas Agriculture Workers
July 14, 2020

Jul 14, 2020 TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today toured Brookover Feed Yard in Garden City to thank frontline agricultural workers for successfully maintaining the food supply chain and feeding our state, our nation, and our world in the midst of an unprecedented global pandemic. “I appreciate the team at Brookover for showing me their […]

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Department of Commerce strengthens team with new Deputy Secretary and Community Development Director
July 14, 2020

TOPEKA – Department of Commerce Secretary David Toland today announced the hiring of two economic development professionals to help direct business and community development efforts for the state. William (Bill) Murphy will become the new …

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Commerce Secretary outlines vision for Kansas with Greater Wichita Partnership
July 10, 2020

TOPEKA – Under the direction of Governor Laura Kelly, Secretary of Commerce David Toland this morning outlined key initiatives for participants at the annual Mid-Year Investor Meeting of the Greater Wichita Partnership. Secretary Toland discussed …

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Kelly administration launches KanVet site to help veterans find careers in Kansas
July 10, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the launch of the new KANSASWORKS KanVet website. The new site provides access to State of Kansas veteran-specific resources and benefits on a one-stop, convenient webpage. “Kansas veterans …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announce KDOT’s Cost Share Program Recipients
July 9, 2020

Jul 9, 2020 NEWTON—Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz announced this morning the recipients across the state of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Cost Share Program. These 24 projects total more than $20 million in transportation investments statewide. The Cost Share Program provides funding to local entities for transportation projects that improve safety, […]

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Office of Rural Prosperity Launches Project for Young Rural Professionals
July 8, 2020

Jul 8, 2020 TOPEKA – Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers announced today the Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) will partner with the Kansas Sampler Foundation to develop a framework designed to engage, empower, retain, and recruit young people in rural Kansas. “Incentivizing younger Kansans to use their talents here at home, will be critical to continuing […]

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Merck Animal Health Announces $100 Million Investment in its DeSoto, Kansas, Manufacturing Operations
June 29, 2020

DESOTO – Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., USA, today announced an investment of $100 million in facility expansion and enhancement efforts in its U.S. manufacturing site in DeSoto, …

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Department of Commerce extends deadline for Individual Development Account Administrator applications
June 26, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is extending its Request for Proposals seeking qualified organizations to administer the Individual Development Account (IDA) program. The new deadline for applications is July 14. The Kansas IDA …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announced Kansas Wind Farm Construction
June 18, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Enel Green Power has begun construction work on a new 199 MW addition to the Cimarron Bend wind farm in Clark County, Kansas. The $281.4 million expansion …

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Union Pacific and National Main Street Center award grants to support recovery of Kansas Main Streets
June 17, 2020

TOPEKA – The National Main Street Center (NMSC) is pleased to announce the eight recipients of the Union Pacific Kansas Main Street Recovery Fund, a grant program to support the economic recovery of Kansas downtowns …

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State Finance Council Approves COVID-19 Relief Funding for Kansas Counties, Agencies
June 16, 2020

Jun 16, 2020 The State Finance Council today approved the distribution of $400 million in funding from the Coronavirus Relief Fund to local Kansas governments to help combat the health and economic challenges COVID-19 has brought on their communities, and to help prepare for possible future outbreaks of the disease. “This first round of coronavirus aid will be critical as we work to get Kansans back […]

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Department of Commerce seeking new Individual Development Account Administrator
June 12, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce has issued a Request for Proposals seeking qualified organizations to administer the Individual Development Account (IDA) program. The Kansas IDA program allows qualified organizations the opportunity to …

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Kansas Earns 13th National Silver Shovel Award for Economic Development
June 11, 2020

Jun 11, 2020 TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the State of Kansas has collected another prestigious Silver Shovel for excellence in economic development. Area Development magazine’s annual Silver Shovel award recognizes states for attracting high-value investment projects that create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. This year marks the 13th […]

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Kansas Earns 13th National Silver Shovel Award for Economic Development
June 11, 2020

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the State of Kansas has collected another prestigious Silver Shovel for excellence in economic development. Area Development magazine’s annual Silver Shovel award recognizes states for attracting high-value investment …

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66 Kansas cities and counties to receive Community Development Block Grants to support coronavirus response
June 2, 2020

Jun 2, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly announced today the award of nearly $9 million in Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response Supplement (CDBG-CV) funds to 66 Kansas communities. “Kansans have faced unprecedented challenges during the past few months due to COVID-19,” Governor Kelly said. “Our communities need relief – and they need it now. I’m […]

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66 Kansas cities and counties to receive Community Development Block Grants to support coronavirus response
June 2, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly announced today the award of nearly $9 million in Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response Supplement (CDBG-CV) funds to 66 Kansas communities. “Kansans have faced unprecedented challenges during the past few months …

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Governor Kelly Announces $9 Million in Grants to Support Community Responses to Coronavirus
May 11, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that more than $9 million in federal funding will be made available to the state’s Community Development Block Grant program to support community responses to the COVID-19 …

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Department of Commerce introduces new grant program for Kansas arts organizations affected by COVID-19
May 1, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced today that nearly $500,000 in grant funding is being made available to provide operational support to Kansas arts organizations experiencing financial difficulties as a result of COVID-19. …

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Kansas continues to lead in wind energy
April 21, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas is once again a national leader in wind-generated renewable energy, according to the American Wind Energy Association’s (AWEA) Annual Market Report. Kansas ranks No. 2 in the nation for wind energy …

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Alcohol for the Greater Good
April 7, 2020

Happy National Beer Day! With 36 unique breweries across our state, Kansas is no stranger to beer. In any regular year, we would be taking this time to celebrate the different flavors, styles and varieties …

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Department of Commerce introduces Live Chat to help businesses applying for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans
April 6, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce launched a Live Chat feature on its COVID-19 Response webpage today specifically to provide support to Kansas businesses and nonprofits applying for Economic Injury Disaster Loans through …

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Governor signs bipartisan transportation plan into law
April 3, 2020

Apr 3, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly today signed the bipartisan Senate Bill 173 creating the new 10-year Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program. “This fiscally responsible program provides a visionary approach so that Kansas has the flexibility to address immediate needs and secure more opportunities for our future,” Kelly said. “Investing in Kansas’ infrastructure means putting people […]

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Department of Commerce launches COVID jobs website
April 1, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce today launched a new jobs website, connecting job seekers with Kansas businesses hiring to fill urgent needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 jobs site, kansasworks.com/coronavirus, allows …

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$5 million of HIRE Fund loans have been awarded to Kansas hospitality businesses
March 24, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Within 48 hours of Governor Laura Kelly announcing the establishment of the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund, all $5 million allocated for the loan program have been awarded. “The hospitality industry …

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Kansas small businesses eligible for disaster loans from the Small Business Administration
March 21, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration approved her request to make loans of up to $2 million available to small businesses disrupted by coronavirus. The disaster declaration …

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Governor Laura Kelly establishes the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund
March 20, 2020

The Kelly Administration has established the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund to provide bridge loans for Kansas’ hospitality sector during the COVID-19 crisis. The Kelly administration is committed to providing support to our state’s …

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Applications now open for the Community Service Tax Credit Program
March 19, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce announced today that applications are now being accepted for the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). CSP assists private nonprofit organizations and public health care entities in …

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KANSASWORKS issues Workforce Centers operations update
March 17, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will be taking actions to reduce contact and maintain social distancing as directed by the Centers for Disease Control. KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will remain …

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Kansas Commerce among the best in the nation
March 12, 2020

Topeka, Kan. –The Kansas Department of Commerce is pleased to announce our own Business Recruitment Director, Alicia Janesko Hutchings was named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers for 2020 by Consultant Connect. Congratulations …

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Department of Commerce hires a new Regional Project Manager
March 9, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce welcomes a new Regional Project Manager for Southwestern Kansas. Jonathan Clayton joins Commerce as the Southwest Regional Project Manager covering 18 counties. Clayton previously served in the private …

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Kansas Exports Increase in 2019
March 6, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas exports totaled $11.6 billion in 2019, up 0.25 percent over 2018. Nationally, U.S. exports experienced a 1.25 percent decline during the same period. “Seeing Kansas exports rise in the face of …

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Federal loans and grants available to bring high-speed broadband to rural areas
March 4, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas State Department of Commerce announces today that applications are being accepted for the second round of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ReConnect Program. ReConnect is a USDA program that furnishes loans …

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Kansas Main Street gets a makeover
March 2, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – The popular Kansas Main Street program that was re-established in 2019 now has a new look! The new Kansas Main Street logo was unveiled today by the Kansas Department of Commerce to …

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39 Kansas towns to receive Community Development Block Grants
February 13, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today the award of more than $17 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to 39 Kansas communities.A total of $17,486,103 in federal funds is being …

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Department of Commerce returns to fully staffing its business recruitment team
February 10, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today the addition of Jeff Freeman to the department’s business recruitment team. With this move, the Kansas Department of Commerce business recruitment team is fully staffed …

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Kansas Celebrates Chinese New Year
February 7, 2020

Last month, representatives from the State of Kansas, including International Division Director Jeff Willis, delivered a proclamation from Governor Kelly recognizing the Chinese New Year. The Kansas City Chinese American Association (KCCAA) held a gala …

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Governor Kelly unveils new KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center
January 23, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Secretary of Commerce David Toland and KANSASWORKS Vice Chair Carol Perry in unveiling the newest member of the KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center fleet. “Delivering effective workforce services …

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New export assistance grant available to companies across Kansas
January 21, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – Companies based in the state of Kansas have a new tool to help them succeed in selling their goods or services to customers around the world. The Kansas Market Access Program (K-MAP) …

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Governor applauds Congressional passage of USMCA
January 16, 2020

Jan 16, 2020 Citing its importance to Kansas exports and the state’s economy, Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam expressed praise today for Congressional passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). “This is an important and welcome development in Kansas, especially as our farmers and ranchers struggle to rebuild after an historic […]

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Governor, Lt. Governor announce release Office of Rural Prosperity listening tour report
January 13, 2020

Jan 13, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers announced at a press conference today the release of the Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour report. The Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP), housed within the Kansas Department of Commerce, was created by Governor Kelly as a way to help revitalize and highlight rural […]

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Governor, Senate Majority Leader announce compromise proposal to lower healthcare costs for Kansas families
January 9, 2020

Jan 9, 2020 After weeks of negotiations, Democratic Governor Laura Kelly and Republican Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning today announced a compromise proposal to expand Medicaid while lowering health insurance premiums for Kansas families. “This process is far from over, as there are still several critical steps to be taken by the Kansas Legislature,” Kelly […]

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Kelly Administration Launches Online Incentive Transparency Database
January 9, 2020

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 …

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KANSASWORKS.com Introduces Live Chat Feature
January 6, 2020

Topeka, Kan. – KANSASWORKS and the Kansas Department of Commerce announced today the addition of the live chat feature on KANSASWORKS.com. The new feature allows Kansas residents unable to visit a physical Workforce Center location …

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Jeff Willis Hired to Lead International Division at Commerce
December 20, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary David Toland has appointed Jeff Willis as director of the newly reconstituted International Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce. As director, Willis will lead efforts to grow Kansas exports and …

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Governor, Lt. Governor announce Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour Details
December 12, 2019

Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers announced at a press conference today details on the upcoming Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour. The tour is intended to foster new ways to help rural Kansas communities by hearing from the residents themselves. “Rural Kansas has been overlooked and unheard for far too long,” Governor […]

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Nominations Open for Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award
December 12, 2019

TOPEKA, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2020 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award. International trade is vital to the Kansas economy. In 2018, Kansas companies exported nearly …

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Town Halls Scheduled to Engage Public on Kansas Economic Development
December 2, 2019

TOPEKA, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that four town halls have been scheduled to engage the public in the development of the Kansas Framework for Growth, the economic development planning process …

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Department of Commerce Bolsters Business Recruitment Team with Appointment of Peter Ruiz
November 7, 2019

Topeka, Kan. –Secretary of Commerce Toland announced today the addition of Peter Ruiz to the Kansas business recruitment team. Ruiz will serve as a business recruitment representative for the West Coast territory, a position that …

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Kelly Administration Begins Design of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for State
October 7, 2019

TOPEKA, Kan. – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today they have kicked off the development of the “Framework for Growth” – a robust strategy to accelerate economic growth in …

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Department of Commerce Announces Minority Enterprise Development Awards and Luncheon
September 26, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development will host its 35th Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon. The luncheon will be held in the Capitol Plaza …

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Kelly Administration Hosts 2019 Taiwan Agricultural Trade Goodwill Mission
September 19, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly, the Kansas Department of Commerce and Department of Agriculture welcomed members of the 2019 Taiwan Agricultural Trade Goodwill Mission to Topeka on Thursday. Since 1998, Taiwan has dispatched a …

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Kansas Complete Count Committee Holds First Meeting
September 17, 2019

Wichita, Kan. – The Kansas Complete Count Committee, created through executive order by Governor Laura Kelly in April to assist the U.S. Census Bureau in promoting participation in the 2020 Census, met for the first …

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Commerce appoints Trent Armbrust to lead business development efforts for bioscience and technology sectors
September 13, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced Trent Armbrust will join the Kansas Department of Commerce as director of strategy for Bioscience and Technology effective Sept. 23. This newly created role and …

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Secretary David Toland Announces Agency Restructuring, Opens New Positions
September 11, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland has announced agency-wide restructuring as part of ongoing rebuilding efforts. These actions include the rebuilding of both the Business Development and International Trade Divisions. “Much of the …

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Introducing Arts in Medicine, now Accepting Applications
August 16, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Arts in Medicine, a partnership between the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) and Emporia State University (ESU), is accepting applications from associations, agencies and organizations that provide medical services to Kansans. …

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Faith Technologies and Excellerate Manufacturing Expand Kansas Operations
August 9, 2019

Olathe, Kan – Faith Technologies, an energy expert and national leader in electrical planning, engineering, design and installation, will expand its operations to Olathe, Kansas, including its manufacturing division, Excellerate, and Faith Technologies University. The …

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Governor urges support for USMCA Agreement
August 1, 2019

Aug 1, 2019 Governor Laura Kelly has urged Kansas’ congressional delegation to support the pending United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), due to its importance to Kansas trade and exports, and the state’s economy. “Kansas has always been – and always will be – an export state. We cannot prosper without access to international markets,” the governor […]

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Secretary David Toland Awards Community Service Tax Credits to Kansas Non-profits
July 30, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today the award of Community Service Tax Credits (CSP) to 17 non-profit organizations to support education, healthcare and housing projects across the state. CSP is a …

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Secretary David Toland reduces fee for businesses seeking Angel Investors
July 23, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today that he has reduced the application fee for businesses seeking to participate in the Angel Investor Tax Credit program. After reducing the application fee from …

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Applications being Accepted for 2019 New Dance Lab
July 3, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The New Dance Lab, a partnership between KCAIC and Johnson County Community College (JCCC), is now accepting applications for 2019. The Lab will allow a select group of established and aspiring dance …

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Bombardier announces new Learjet 75 Liberty
July 2, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Bombardier has announced the new Learjet 75 Liberty, the newest light jet in the lineup of Learjet platforms developed and manufactured in Kansas. Learjet aircraft are assembled in Wichita at Bombardier’s Wichita site. “It’s …

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Special Grants Awarded to 11 Kansas Communities
July 1, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland has announced the award of a special series of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to support 11 rural communities across Kansas. These grants are specifically designed to …

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Governor applauds USDA relocation announcement
June 13, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Gov. Laura Kelly applauded today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to relocate major research agencies from Washington, D.C., to the Kansas City region, along with nearly 600 high-paying federal jobs. …

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Morningstar Care Homes, Pinnacle Technology take home highest honors for Business Appreciation Month
June 6, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Team Kansas and the Kansas Department of Commerce have announced Morningstar Care Homes of Fredonia as the winner of the Governor’s Award of Excellence, the top award given to a business by …

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Governor, Lt. Governor announce Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour Details
June 5, 2019

Jun 5, 2019 Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers announced at a press conference today details on the upcoming Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour. The tour is intended to foster new ways to help rural Kansas communities by hearing from the residents themselves. “Rural Kansas has been overlooked and unheard for far […]

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Mobile Workforce Center coming to Kansas towns
June 3, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The KANSASWORKS Mobile Center is coming to Clay Center, Atchison, Hiawatha and Ottawa communities this year. The Mobile Center is available to serve both job seekers and businesses with positions to fill. Topeka …

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KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center visiting Kansas communities
June 3, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The KANSASWORKS Mobile Center is coming to Clay Center, Atchison, Hiawatha and Ottawa communities this year. The Mobile Center is available to serve both job seekers and businesses with positions to fill. Topeka …

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Mobile Workforce Center to assist residents in Linwood
May 30, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center will be in Linwood today to provide employment services after the tornado. The Mobile Center will arrive in Linwood at 1 p.m. and set up at the …

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Trade opportunities with Mexico showcased in upcoming info sessions
May 22, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Kansas Small Business Development Center are hosting several upcoming info sessions on export opportunities to Mexico. To help Kansas companies gain traction in the Mexican …

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Personnel Moves Strengthen Commerce Team
May 17, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced two personnel moves as part of the ongoing restructuring and rebuilding of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To support the goal of strengthening Commerce’s Business …

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Hostess Brands, LLC Opens Distribution Center in Edgerton, Kansas
May 8, 2019

Kansas City, MO – May 8, 2019 – Hostess Brands, LLC, along with The State of Kansas Commerce Department and City of Edgerton, today announced the opening of a new distribution center located in Edgerton, …

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The Kansas Department of Commerce names Craig VanWey Employee of the Quarter
May 8, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is proud to announce Craig VanWey as the Employee of the Quarter for Q1 2019. Governor Laura Kelly honored VanWey and other Employees of the Quarter in …

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Governor announces effort to build comprehensive economic development plan
May 8, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The last time the state of Kansas established a comprehensive plan for economic development was in 1986, with the Redwood-Krider report. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Commerce David Toland believe …

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CarMax to Create 300 Jobs in Kansas City Region
May 6, 2019

Olathe, Kan. – The Kansas City Area Development Council joins its partners at the State of Kansas and the City of Olathe in announcing today that CarMax will create approximately 300 jobs for its new …

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Speakers spotlight International trade
May 3, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce has announced the a session for International Trade Day, as well as the the featured speakers. The session, titled “Navigating Through the Ever-changing Global Trade Landscape,” will …

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Still time to enlist Angel Investor assist
May 2, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The window for accepting Angel Investor Tax Credit Applications has reached its halfway point. Applications for companies seeking investment through the Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit (KAITC) program for 2019 will be …

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Art contest celebrates student efforts
May 1, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Five Kansas students from across the state received top honors for their artistic endeavors. The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with the National Career Development Association (NCDA), selected the following entries …

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Lt. Governor highlights importance of Medicaid expansion to rural prosperity
April 30, 2019

Apr 30, 2019 The following remarks are from Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers regarding the results of his Rural Healthcare Tour: Hello, thank you all for coming today. Since launching the Office of Rural Prosperity’s Rural Healthcare tour in February, Governor Kelly, KDHE Secretary Lee Norman and I have collectively toured more than 25 healthcare facilities. […]

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Kansas poetry champ shoots for national crown
April 30, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – 2017 Poetry Out Loud State Champion Khadija Ceesay from Olathe South High School is competing today in the regional semifinals of the National Poetry Out Loud Competition, with a chance to advance …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Announces Finalists for Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award
April 29, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is announcing the finalists for the Governor’s Exporter of the Year award. The winner will be announced on June 4th at an Awards Presentation Banquet. The following …

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Governor Kelly highlights importance of accurate 2020 Census, Creates Kansas Complete Count Committee, appoints co-chairs
April 23, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – This morning, through Executive Order 19-07, Governor Laura Kelly launched an initiative to make every Kansan count. She established the Kansas Complete Count Committee (CCC) to ensure that every Kansan is represented …

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New Minority/Women Business Development Workshop Aims to Help Businesses Grow
April 22, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Minority and Women Business Development Office of the Kansas Department of Commerce will host a Workshop for Minority, Woman and/or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Certification Programs on May 15. Those interested in …

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The State of Kansas Joins The Skillful State Network
April 18, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas has joined The Skillful State Network, a Markle Foundation initiative. Governor Laura Kelly, along with the governors of California, Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Pennsylvania have joined the founding states …

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Webinar Highlights KCAIC Events and Grant Opportunities
April 16, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) will conduct a webinar hosted by the Kansas PRIDE program on April 18 from 12 – 1 p.m. Peter Jasso will give an overview of …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Rolling Grant Deadlines for Eligible Applicants
April 16, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission is accepting applications in all categories for eligible applicants that have never received a KCAIC grant (applicants that have only received one grant before FY19 and …

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KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center Available to Nebraska Workers Impacted by Floods
April 15, 2019

Lincoln, Ne. – The State of Kansas has donated its KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Center for stops in Bellevue, Fremont, Valley and Plattsmouth April 16-19. Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) unemployment insurance claims specialists and employment …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Announces 2019 Small Business Procurement Day Event
April 12, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is excited to announce 2019 Small Business Procurement Day. A celebratory event will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.at the …

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Kansas Claims Number One Spot for Wind Energy Production
April 11, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – In an effort to raise awareness of clean energy activity in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly is highlighting the American Wind Energy Association’s 2018 Annual Market Report. The report, released yesterday, shows that …

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Bonnie & Clyde in Hugoton, KS: New Medicine Findings Inspire KUMC Exhibit, Open to the Public through May
April 11, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – History has been found in Hugoton, and Kansans interested in checking it out for themselves can see it in person at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City. The exhibit, …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Professional Development Institute
April 10, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Performing Arts Conference for performing arts venues and presenters will take place on Thursday, April 25. The event begins at 1 p.m. at the C. L. Hoover Opera House in …

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Kansas Senate Confirms David Toland For Secretary of Commerce
April 5, 2019

Topeka – The Senate voted to confirm the appointment of David Toland to serve as Secretary of Commerce for the state of Kansas on Monday, April 1, in a 23 – 14 vote. “I’m honored …

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USDA announces Junction City to host ReConnect Technical Assistance Workshop
April 4, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The United States Department of Agriculture announced that the ReConnect Technical Assistance Workshop will be held on April 16-17, 2019, in Junction City, Kansas. This regional workshop will allow applicants to gain …

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Governor announces statewide broadband availability map, requests public input
April 3, 2019

Apr 3, 2019 Governor Laura Kelly and Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers announced today the completion of the first iteration of a broadband availability map for the State of Kansas. Rogers announced the map at the Rural Opportunities Conference in Dodge City yesterday. The map was made possible through a grant from the Information Network of […]

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Professional Development Institute for Art Councils and Art Centers
March 29, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission invites Kansas-area Arts Councils and Arts Centers to a conference on Wednesday, April 24 from 8:30 am -2pm in Lawrence, KS. The conference will feature speakers …

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Garden City STAR Bond Project Approved
March 28, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce approved a $129 million STAR bond project for Garden City, KS yesterday. Garden City has been authorized to use $25.4 million in STAR Bond funds for the …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Indigenous Arts Initiative Events
March 26, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – As a partnership between University of Kansas (Spencer Museum of Art, Film and Media Studies, and the Lied Center) and the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, the Indigenous Arts Initiative supports a …

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$250,000 Community Development Block Grant issued to Kechi, KS for Building Repair Project
March 25, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The city of Kechi will receive a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the Kansas Department of Commerce to improve a nearly-hundred-year-old building. The grant funds are part of the CDBG …

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U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2 Million to Support the Manufacturing Industry in Wichita, Kansas
March 25, 2019

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to Wichita State University (WSU) of Wichita, Kansas, to purchase equipment needed …

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Lt. Governor Rogers’ Testimony on the Office of Rural Prosperity
March 21, 2019

Mar 21, 2019 Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers’ testimony to the Kansas House Rural Revitalization Committee: Mr. Chairman and members of the Rural Revitalization Committee, thank you for inviting me to discuss the Office of Rural Prosperity. Thank you, also, for the significant work you do on this committee – the issues before you are of […]

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State of Kansas to host Hispanic Day at the Capitol this April
March 20, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Hispanic Day at the Capitol will take place on April 3, hosted by The Office of the Governor’s Hispanic & Latino American Affairs Commission. The purpose of the event is to celebrate …

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Department of Commerce Announces Speaker Lineup for Rural Opportunities Conference this April
March 18, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Registration is still open for this year’s Kansas Rural Opportunities Conference in Dodge City. The Kansas Department of Commerce hosts this conference annually to provide useful information about rural Kansas living, as …

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Governor comments on Horton Community Hospital closure, sends agency assistance
March 13, 2019

Mar 13, 2019 Following the closure Tuesday of Horton Community Hospital, Governor Laura Kelly extended assistance from her administration and highlighted the critical importance of community hospitals in rural Kansas. “I’m concerned for the community of Horton as they face the serious loss of their local hospital,” Kelly said. “This is becoming a far too […]

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REMINDER: Nominations for the 2019 Business Appreciation Month Awards are being accepted
March 13, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is still accepting applications for the 2019 Business Appreciation Month Awards. The top nominees will be recognized at the Team Kansas awards banquet on June 4 at …

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Governor comments on Horton Community Hospital closure, sends agency assistance
March 13, 2019

Following the closure Tuesday of Horton Community Hospital, Governor Laura Kelly extended assistance from her administration and highlighted the critical importance of community hospitals in rural Kansas. “I’m devastated for the community of Horton as …

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2019 Statewide Job Fair Boasts Impressive Turnout
March 12, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The 2019 KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair took place at 11 different locations across the state with a sharp increase in participation over last year. This year’s Statewide Fair had a 114% increase …

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Registration Open for 2019 Community Development Block Grant Application Workshop
March 12, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Annual Community Development Block Grant Application Workshop will take place on April 18 in Salina, Kansas. This workshop is an opportunity for local officials, regional planning commissions, …

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Overland Park Chamber Economic Development Council to present annual business awards
March 7, 2019

Overland Park, Kan., March 7, 2019 – The Overland Park Chamber Economic Development Council (OPEDC) will recognize three fast-growing companies and six commercial development and redevelopment projects at its twelfth annual Honors Lunch. The program …

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Lt. Governor and Secretary of Commerce Attending Rural Opportunities Conference, Registration Open
February 28, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Registration is open for this year’s Kansas Rural Opportunities Conference in Dodge City. The Kansas Department of Commerce hosts this conference annually to provide useful information about rural Kansas living, as well …

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REMINDER: 2019 KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair is Next Week
February 27, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with KANSASWORKS, will host the KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair on March 7, 2019. The annual job fair will provide employers, veterans, and job seekers with …

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TransAm Trucking Technician Graduation this March, Workforce AID Assisted
February 26, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – With assistance from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Workforce AID Program, several new trucking professionals will be entering the workforce this March. The TransAm Trucking and Freightliner Preventative Maintenance Inspection Technician graduation …

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Governor Kelly and the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Congratulate Kevin Willmott
February 25, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission would like to congratulate Kansas filmmaker Kevin Willmott for winning the 2019 Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Kevin was nominated for co-writing BlacKkKlansman with legendary …

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The Kansas Department of Commerce is Accepting Grant Applications for new Youth Service Initiatives
February 25, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting grant applications for youth services. Up to five grants will be awarded to eligible entities to provide innovative services to eligible in-school and out-of-school youth. …

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Governor Laura Kelly: Alabama Residents are Invited to Tumbleweed Music Festival for Free
February 22, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly announced details today of a new and entertaining musical opportunity for residents of Kansas and Alabama. Working in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Commerce, Governor Kelly announced today …

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Acting Secretary of Commerce David Toland Touring Hays’ Northwest Business Corridor Tomorrow
February 21, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Acting Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Toland will be in Hays Friday to participate in a tour of Hays’ Northwest Business Corridor. Joining Toland will be 111th District Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays; …

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Acting Secretary of Commerce David Toland Testified on Rural Revitalization before House Committee
February 21, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – David Toland, Acting Secretary for the Kansas Department of Commerce, delivered testimony to the House Rural Revitalization Committee earlier today, focusing on challenges and how the agency can better serve communities in …

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TrueAccord Selects KC for Shared Services Operation
February 20, 2019

February 20, 2019 – TrueAccord, a San Francisco-based FinTech company, announced today it will invest $1.34 million in a new shared services operation in Lenexa. “We chose the greater Kansas City area after a thorough nationwide …

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The Kansas Department of Commerce Welcomes Dena Sattler as Director of Marketing and Communications
February 18, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce has named Dena Sattler as the Director of Marketing and Communications. She has been active in the role since mid-last week. Sattler served as editor-publisher of The …

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2019 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference will Take Place this October
February 4, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The 2019 Kansas Renewable Energy Conference is looking for speakers. The conference is an annual event featuring the latest trends and developments in the renewable energy industry sector within Kansas and across …

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REMINDER: 2019 KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair Only a Month Away
February 4, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with KANSASWORKS, will host the KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair on March 7, 2019. The annual job fair will provide employers, veterans, and job seekers with …

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Angel Investor Tax Credit Applications Open for 2019
February 1, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Applications are now being accepted for companies seeking investment through the Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit (KAITC) program for 2019. The program offers Kansas income tax credits to qualified individuals who provide …

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$11 Million in Community Development Block Grants Awarded for Community Improvement Projects
January 24, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce has announced that 23 communities will receive federal grants for a variety of community improvement projects, including sewer and water projects, housing rehabilitation and community facilities improvements. …

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Nominations for Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award: Deadline January 25
January 18, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is still accepting nominations for the Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award through the 25th of January. Kansas businesses are a global force, with goods and services being …

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Deadline Extended for National Career Development Poetry & Art Contest
January 17, 2019

The Kansas Department of Commerce is extending the deadline to participate in the 53rdNCDA Annual Poetry and Art Contest, an initiative of the National Career Development Association, to February 1, 2019 The contest theme is “Using …

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The Kansas Department of Commerce Welcomes Patty Clark as Deputy Secretary
January 15, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce is announcing today that Patty Clark will serve as Deputy Secretary of KDC. Clark has spent her career in public service with an emphasis on rural policy …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Releases Economic Development Statistics for 2018
January 10, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas has had much to celebrate in the area of economic development during 2018, according to statistics released today from the Kansas Department of Commerce. 2018 has been an exceptional year for …

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Community Development Block Grant Program Announces Application for New Community Pool
January 4, 2019

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce announces its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program now enables communities to apply for funding that can be used to construct a swimming pool. There are many benefits …

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Statewide Job Fair Employer Registration Now Open
January 3, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with KANSASWORKS, will host the KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair on March 7, 2019. The annual job fair will provide employers, veterans, and job seekers with …

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Introducing the Minority and Women Business Spotlight Program
January 2, 2019

Topeka, Kan. – The Women and Minority Business Development office of the Kansas Department of Commerce announces the start of the Minority and Women Business Spotlight program. The purpose for the program is to highlight …

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Regional Efforts Bring Weatherly Aircraft Company to Newton, Kansas
December 20, 2018

Newton, Kan. – Through regional efforts, Harvey County Economic Development and the Greater Wichita Partnership worked with the Kansas Department of Commerce to assist Weatherly Aircraft Company in locating their headquarters and assembly operations to …

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Spirit AeroSystems Plans More Major Expansion in Wichita, Kansas
December 19, 2018

WICHITA, KAN, Dec. 19, 2018 – One year after the company announced growth and investment plans at its Wichita, KS site, Spirit AeroSystems today announced a second significant expansion with plans to hire an additional …

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Governor Colyer to Make Major Jobs Announcement at Spirit AeroSystems
December 17, 2018

WHO: Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. and Tom Gentile, CEO of Spirit AeroSystems. WHAT: Governor Jeff Colyer will make a major jobs announcement at Spirit AeroSystems. The announcement comes after the company added 1,000 jobs last …

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Park Aerospace Plans $19M Expansion in Newton, Kansas
December 17, 2018

Topeka, KAN – Park Aerospace Technologies Corp. announced today that it will be undergoing a massive expansion in Kansas.At a special joint meeting Monday, the Newton City Commission and Harvey County Commission approved a development …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Announces the National Career Development Poetry & Art Contest
December 6, 2018

The Kansas Department of Commerce is partnering with the National Career Development Association (NCDA) to participate in the 53rd NCDA Annual Poetry and Art Contest. The contest theme is “Using Careers to Break Barriers, Empower …

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Collaboration Drives Company Growth at Fagron Sterile Services/JCB Laboratories
November 27, 2018

WICHITA, KS (November 27, 2018) – Fagron Sterile Services/JCB Laboratories (FSS/JCB), a leading FDA Registered 503B Outsourcing Facility and a national supplier of compounded sterile preparations, announced plans to expand the company in collaboration with …

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Department of Commerce Accepting Nominations for 2019 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award
November 6, 2018

Kansas businesses are a global force, with goods and services being sought from Kansas internationally. The annual Kansas Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award proudly celebrates the outstanding Kansas companies that excel in exporting and …

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Kansas Opportunity Zone Forum Taking Place on Oct. 25
October 18, 2018

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce will host a community forum for Opportunity Zones from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 25th, at the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane, Kansas. Opportunity Zones are …

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Governor Colyer visited Exporter of Year Winner Shor-Line on Oct. 15
October 15, 2018

Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D., toured the Kansas City, Kansas headquarters of Schroer Manufacturing Company (“Shor-Line”) on October 15th. Shor-Line is the winner of the 2018 Kansas Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, which is presented …

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Governor Colyer Proclaims Date for Kansas Apprenticeship Week
October 15, 2018

TOPEKA – The week of November 12-16 has been named Apprenticeship Week in the State of Kansas. This is being done to recognize the value and importance of the statewide Registered Apprenticeship Program in meeting …

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Job Fair Brings Companies and Job Candidates Together
October 10, 2018

Southeast KANSASWORKS and its partners, KANSASWORKS, Northeast Oklahoma Works, Montgomery County Action Council, and Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce will host the “Fall Into Your Perfect Career” job fair being held on Thursday, November 1st …

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New KANSASWORKS App Launches Today
October 8, 2018

TOPEKA – To better assist job seekers with finding great employment in Kansas, the Kansas Department of Commerce and KANSASWORKS are pleased to introduce the new KANSASWORKS app, available today on both Apple and Android …

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Minority Enterprise Development Week Starts Today
October 8, 2018

TOPEKA – Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D., has proclaimed the week of October 7 – 13 as “Minority Enterprise Development Week.” The week will serve as a reminder of the many contributions and achievements of minority- …

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Manufacturing Summit A Huge Success for Manufacturers in Kansas
September 24, 2018

TOPEKA – More than one hundred manufacturing professionals from across the state came together to hear advice from industry leaders, network, and learn about the newest innovations in Kansas manufacturing at an event held by …

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Overstock.com Announces New Kansas City Distribution Center
September 13, 2018

KANSAS CITY – Overstock.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSTK), one of the world’s largest online home goods and furniture retailers, today announced the opening of a distribution center in Kansas City, Kansas that the company expects will create …

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The Kansas Department of Commerce Announces Plans for 2018 Energy Conference
September 12, 2018

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce will be hosting the 2018 Kansas Governor’s Energy Conference on October 11th through the 12th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan, Kansas. This event will be a …

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Community Service Tax Credits awarded to 16 nonprofits
September 6, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded 16 nonprofit organizations around the state Community Service Tax Credits (CSP). Since 1994, CSP has helped nonprofit organizations undertake major capital fund-raising drives for several different …

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Kansas Department of Commerce announces plans for 2018 Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon
September 3, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development is announcing plans for its 34th Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon. The luncheon will take place during Kansas Minority …

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Registration Opens for 2018 Kansas Governor’s Energy Conference
August 21, 2018

Registration is now open for the 2018 Kansas Governor’s Energy Conference, which will be held October 11 and 12 in Manhattan. Our state’s energy sector has brought billions of dollars of capital investment and thousands …

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Manufacturing Summit coming to Wichita
August 16, 2018

TOPEKA – Wichita is the site of the second annual Kansas Manufacturing Summit, a forum providing those in the manufacturing sector the opportunity to network, learn about business match options, and gain insight into workforce …

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Turn5 Selects Kansas City Area for New eCommerce Fulfillment Center
August 13, 2018

Turn5, an award-winning eCommerce retailer, announced today it will open a new distribution center in Lenexa, Kansas. A ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening event will take place on October 29, 2018 from 11 a.m. – …

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Palmer Manufacturing to invest $16 million in its Garden City plant, expanding workforce to 200
August 7, 2018

GARDEN CITY, KS (August 7, 2018) – Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. today announced that Palmer Manufacturing and Tank, Inc., a manufacturer of steel and fiberglass tanks and processing equipment for the oil and gas …

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Governor’s Office Receives Grant for Statewide Broadband Mapping Project
August 3, 2018

The Information Network of Kansas (“INK”) Board of Directors has approved a $300,000 grant request by Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. to complete a Statewide Broadband Mapping project. The project, which will be undertaken by non-profit …

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Convey Health Solutions Announces New Distribution Facility in Kansas City Region
August 1, 2018

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Convey Health Solutions (Convey), a leading provider of specialized healthcare technology and services for the government-sponsored markets, today announced the opening of a new distribution facility and creation of more than …

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Governor Colyer Announces Addition of 1000 New Jobs with Expansion of Shamrock Trading Corp
July 31, 2018

TOPEKA –Governor Jeff Colyer, today joined leaders from Shamrock Trading Corporation in Overland Park to announce a major expansion, which, subject to review and approval from the City of Overland Park, will create over 1000 …

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New Directions Behavioral Health moves to Sprint campus in Overland Park
July 27, 2018

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – July 20, 2018 – New Directions Behavioral Health announced plans to move its headquarters from Kansas City, Missouri to the Sprint campus in Overland Park, Kansas. The company recently finalized terms …

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Governor Colyer Announces New “Land in Kansas” Strategic Economic Development Initiative
July 19, 2018

On Thursday, Governor Jeff Colyer announced the launch of a new economic development initiative aimed at attracting investment and promoting business expansion in Kansas. Colyer was joined by Interim Secretary of Commerce Bob North, Secretary …

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Announcing plans for first annual Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Conference
July 17, 2018

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce, KANSASWORKS, Kansas Department for Children and Families, and the Kansas Board of Regents are currently planning the first annual Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Conference in Kansas. This conference …

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The “#1 Aviation Workforce in the USA” to be promoted at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow
July 12, 2018

Wichita, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Greater Wichita Partnership will lead a delegation of industry partners and local business leaders to the Farnborough International Airshow July 16 – 20 in Hampshire, …

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Kansas Commerce launches KansasCentral.com, an Online Business and Economic Development Magazine
July 12, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce announces the launch of a new online magazine loaded with news and feature articles on business and economic development topics in Kansas. KansasCentral.com is aimed to keep Kansans …

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$5 million still available for innovative emerging businesses through Kansas Angels program
July 9, 2018

TOPEKA – Five million dollars in tax credits are still available to investors in innovative emerging businesses in Kansas through the Kansas Angel Tax Credit (KAITC) program. The program offers Kansas income tax credits to …

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Governor Jeff Colyer announces hiring of new Regulatory Ombudsman for Kansas Businesses
July 2, 2018

TOPEKA – Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. has announced the hiring of Tom Arpke to fill the role of Regulatory Ombudsman at the Kansas Department of Commerce. Tom will help businesses looking to expand or start …

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Kansas Department of Commerce Earns 11th Silver Shovel Award for Economic Development Wins
June 26, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce has again been recognized by Area Development magazine with one of its Silver Shovel awards. The Silver Shovel award honors state economic development agencies that drive significant job …

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Union Tank Car Company to Expand Repair Facility in El Dorado, Kansas
June 21, 2018

EL DORADO — This summer, Union Tank Car Company (UTLX) will begin to expand their railcar repair facility in El Dorado, Kansas. UTLX, the largest manufacturer, lessor, and maintainer of rail tank cars in North …

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Kiewit Breaks Ground on New Campus in Lenexa City Center
June 21, 2018

LENEXA — Governor Jeff Colyer and Mayor Michael Boehm today joined Kiewit to officially break ground on a new campus at the Lenexa City Center. The roughly $100 million project includes a new six-story building …

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Camso Selects Kansas for new Manufacturing Operations
June 20, 2018

JUNCTION CITY – Camso, an industry leader in manufacturing off-road tires, wheels tracks and track systems, announced plans today to establish a new manufacturing operation in Geary County, Kansas. Camso serves the material handling, construction, …

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GEICO announces new service center in KC region
June 19, 2018

GEICO, the second-largest private passenger auto insurer and one of the fastest-growing major auto insurers in the U.S., will open a new service center and create 500 new jobs over the next five years starting …

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Dr. Diane DeBacker to join gathering of State and Federal STEM Education Leaders at the White House
June 18, 2018

TOPEKA – Dr. Diane DeBacker, Executive Director of Business and Education Innovation at the Kansas Department of Commerce, will attend the first-of-its-kind State-Federal Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education Summit hosted by The White …

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Kansas awarded $1.2 million additional grant funding for Statewide Apprenticeship Program
June 15, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce been awarded $1.2 million in additional grant funding from the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship to help grow the statewide Registered Apprenticeship Program. This new funding …

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Kubota Tractor Corporation Completes Land Purchase for Future Logistics Campus and Midwest Office
June 14, 2018

EDGERTON, Kansas (June 14, 2018) – Kubota Tractor Corporation today announced the completion of a 200-acre land purchase within Phase II of Logistics Park Kansas City in Edgerton, making the company the first major tenant …

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Kansas Department of Commerce accepting nominations for Minority Enterprise Development Week awards
June 6, 2018

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce Office of Minority and Women Business Development is accepting nominations for Kansas minority and/or women-owned businesses, advocates, young entrepreneurs, and corporations. These nominations celebrate National Minority Enterprise Development …

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Winners of the Governor’s Exporter of the Year and Award of Excellence awards named
June 5, 2018

LAWRENCE, KS – Winners of the Governor’s Exporter of the Year and Award of Excellence awards were announced this evening at the Team Kansas banquet in Lawrence, Kansas. Team Kansas, an economic development group comprised …

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Governor Colyer Appoints Stanley Adams as Director of Broadband Initiatives for Kansas
June 4, 2018

TOPEKA– Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. today announced the appointment of Stanley Adams as Director of Broadband Initiatives at the Kansas Department of Commerce. Mr. Adams, who previously served as Director of Statewide Broadband Initiatives with …

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PRA Health Sciences announces major expansion plans in Lenexa, Kansas
June 4, 2018

LENEXA, KS – The Kansas Department of Commerce announced today that PRA Health Sciences (PRA), which currently employs 680 people in Kansas, will significantly expand its Kansas footprint with investment in a new 48,000-square-foot bioanalytical …

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Governor Colyer proclaims June as Business Appreciation Month
June 1, 2018

TOPEKA – Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. has issued an official Governor’s proclamation declaring June 2018 as Business Appreciation Month in recognition of the vital role businesses of all sizes play in strengthening the Kansas economy. …

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Vituity Selects Kansas City Area for New System Support Center
May 31, 2018

LEAWOOD — Vituity, a leading physician-owned healthcare delivery organization, announced today it has opened a new system support center in Leawood, Kan. in an effort to grow and transform the practice, delivery and business of …

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National Economic Development Week – May 7 – 12
May 27, 2018

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce is joining economic development agencies across the country in celebration of National Economic Development Week from May 7-12. During this week, the agency will highlight the vital services …

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Finalists announced for Governor’s Exporter of the Year award
May 24, 2018

TOPEKA – Kansas International Trade Day will be held June 5, 2018 in Lawrence, Kansas, at the Lawrence DoubleTree Hotel. The conference will feature speakers from business and government with sessions designed to help Kansas …

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Kansas Strengthens Trade Relations by Rejoining the Midwest-US Japan Association
May 23, 2018

Topeka- Governor Jeff Colyer announced today that Kansas will renew its alliance with Japan by rejoining the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association. Governor Colyer met with the Japanese consulate in April at the Capitol to discuss the …

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Kansas Department of Commerce announces leadership changes
May 18, 2018

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce announces Wade Wiebe has been appointed as the agency’s Director of Workforce Innovation. The agency also announces the appointments of Susan NeuPoth Cadoret as Director of Business and …

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U.S. Treasury Department approves 74 census tracts Governor Colyer nominated as Opportunity Zones
May 13, 2018

TOPEKA – The U.S. Department of Treasury has officially certified Governor Jeff Colyer’s nomination of 74 census tracts to be designated as Qualified Opportunity Zones and has designated those tracts as such. The approved Opportunity …

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Public Restroom Company to Locate in Hutchinson
April 26, 2018

Hutchinson, Kansas – Public Restroom Company announced today they will purchase the building at 714 Corey Road in Hutchinson, Kansas. The Public Restroom Company is a family-owned and operated small business who manufactures restrooms for …

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Innovative Online Tool Guides Kansas Job Seekers
April 18, 2018

TOPEKA, Kan. – An innovative online tool created and launched by Kansas labor and commerce officials aims to get Kansans to work in the highest paying and most in-demand jobs. From accountants, to nurses, to …

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Governor’s Exporter of the Year award to celebrate its 30th anniversary
April 18, 2018

TOPEKA – Kansas International Trade Day will be held June 5, 2018 in Lawrence, Kansas, at the Lawrence DoubleTree Hotel. The conference will feature speakers from business and government with sessions designed to help Kansas …

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Kansas Commerce Newsletter
May 25, 2017

The Kansas Department of Commerce will host International Trade Day on June 6 in the Colonial Ballroom of Emporia State University’s Memorial Union. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. and the conference will adjourn at …

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Kansas Commerce Announces Global Manufacturing Summit
February 28, 2017

The 2017 Global Manufacturing Summit, hosted by the Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with Pittsburg State University on Thursday and Friday, April 6 – 7, 2017. The Manufacturing Summit will bring together industry experts …

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Spectrum Brands Hardware and Home Improvement Division to Open New Distribution Facility at Logistic
February 8, 2017

The Kansas Department of Commerce has the pleasure of announcing that Spectrum Brands Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI) division plans to centralize its operations from two existing distribution facilities in Charlotte, N.C., and Mira Loma, …

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Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission Announces Tallgrass Artist Residency
February 8, 2017

The Tallgrass Artist Residency is now accepting applications from artists currently living in a place within the ecological boundaries of the North American prairie to participate in the 2017 residency program. The residency program was …

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Community Development Block Grants Awarded for Improvement of Water and Wastewater Systems
February 2, 2017

The Kansas Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program is announcing the award of $5,370,955 to 14 communities across the state. The funds will be used to make improvements to respective water and wastewater systems. …

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Community Development Block Grants Awarded for Housing Rehabilitation and Demolition
February 2, 2017

The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced that four Kansas communities would share $1,200,000 in federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for Housing Rehabilitation/Demolition. These housing projects will rehabilitate approximately 53 …

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Community Development Block Grants Awarded for Community Facilities Projects
February 2, 2017

The Kansas Department of Commerce would like to announce the Kansas Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program award of $3,302,984 in CDBG funds will go to 14 communities across the state. The communities receiving …

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2017 KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair
February 2, 2017

The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with KANSASWORKS, will host the 2017 KANSASWORKS Statewide Job Fair on March 9, 2017. The annual job fair will provide employers, veterans and job seekers with the unique …

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Kansas: A Thriving Community of Life Scientists
January 4, 2017

Kansas’ various industries are part of what makes the state’s business climate so vibrant. The life science sector engages a variety of businesses, three state universities and soon, the federal government. The life science sector …

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Business Successes

Kansas is a smart investment for businesses looking to locate and expand their operations. Businesses select Kansas due to distinct business advantages that translate to increased performance and profits. Take a look at the new businesses that have found success in Kansas.
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Governor Kelly Announces Honeywell Investing $84M in Olathe Manufacturing Facility
February 2, 2024

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Honeywell will invest $84 million to expand its aerospace manufacturing facility in Olathe, creating 156 new jobs. The project is expected to generate nearly $47 million in …

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Governor Kelly Cuts Ribbon on $450M, 100+ Job Hill’s Pet Nutrition Tonganoxie Plant
October 16, 2023

TONGANOXIE – Governor Laura Kelly today joined business leaders from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Colgate-Palmolive, Leavenworth County, City of Tonganoxie, and other industry and elected officials for the grand opening of a new, fully designed smart facility …

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Governor Kelly Announces Entertainment Company to Build $41M Studio and Learning Center, Create 101 Jobs at K-State Salina
August 22, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Hollywood-based Pure Imagination Studios is partnering with Kansas State University’s Salina Campus, Salina Airport Authority, and the State of Kansas to build an advanced spatial computing studio and …

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Governor Kelly Celebrates Michelin’s More Than $100M Investment, Creation of 200 Jobs in Junction City
June 19, 2023

JUNCTION CITY – Governor Laura Kelly celebrates the announcement that Michelin will invest more than $100 million into its Junction City operations over the next five years, creating 200 new jobs. The investment will increase the …

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Governor Kelly Announces Walmart to Build $257M Case-Ready Beef Facility, Create 667 New Jobs in Olathe
June 13, 2023

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Walmart will build its first-ever fully owned and operated case-ready beef facility in Olathe. The retailer will invest $257 million in the plant and create 667 new permanent jobs. …

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DSM to Build Next-Generation Premix Plant in KC Region for Clean Premixes Focused on Pet Food and Companion Animals
May 1, 2023

TONGANOXIE – DSM, a global purpose-led health and nutrition company, today announced that it plans to build a next-generation nutritional premix plant in Tonganoxie, Kansas, creating 28 jobs. The new location will supply the pet food …

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Governor Kelly Announces EMP Shield Plans to Build $1.9 Billion, 1,200-Job Computer Chip Manufacturing Facility in Coffey County
February 20, 2023

BURLINGTON – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that EMP Shield, an industry leader in protecting electronic devices from destructive magnetic pulses, plans to invest $1.9 billion in a computer chip manufacturing facility in Burlington. The …

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Governor Kelly Announces Integra Technologies to Invest $1.8B, Create Nearly 2,000 Jobs with Wichita Semiconductor Plant
February 2, 2023

~Second-Largest Economic Development Project in State History Will Advance National Security Efforts~ TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas-based Integra Technologies plans to invest $1.8 billion in a large-scale semiconductor facility in Wichita. This …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Expansion of Salina Pizza Manufacturer
November 3, 2022

~Schwan’s Expansion Fuels 225 Jobs and is Part of $600M Investment~ SALINA – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Salina community leaders to celebrate Schwan’s Company’s announcement that it will expand the refrigeration distribution center at its …

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Governor Laura Kelly Joins Panasonic Energy to Break Ground on $4B, 4,000-Job Electric Vehicle Battery Plant
November 2, 2022

De Soto – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd. and De Soto leaders to break ground on one of the largest electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facilities of its kind in the United States. …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $28M Olathe Laboratory to Add 175 New Jobs
October 31, 2022

OLATHE – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that KCAS Bioanalytical and Biomarker Services has opened a $28 million laboratory in Olathe that will create 175 new jobs for Kansans. Kansas Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Paul Hughes …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Semiconductor Company Investing $4M, Creating 30 Jobs Near Manhattan
October 27, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Radiation Detection Technologies, Inc. (RDT), a semiconductor device manufacturer, is expanding its operations around Manhattan. The company will create 30 new jobs over the next five years with …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon at URBN Distribution Center
October 26, 2022

~$400M investment fuels 2,000 Kansas Jobs~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today welcomed some of America’s most iconic retail brands – including Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie – at a ribbon-cutting for URBN’s new 1.5 million square-foot …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces New Aerospace Manufacturing Facility Coming to South Central Kansas
October 17, 2022

~Pinnacle Aerospace’s $14.7M Investment in Wellington will Create 155 New Jobs~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that aerospace parts manufacturer Pinnacle Aerospace, LLC, will be investing $14.7 million in a new facility in …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Grand Opening of Salina Construction Equipment Manufacturing Plant
October 14, 2022

SALINA – Governor Laura Kelly today joined representatives of Great Plains Manufacturing and Kubota Corporation for the grand opening of a new construction equipment manufacturing facility in Salina. The $178 million investment by Great Plains to …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Lenexa Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory Will Add 235 New Jobs
October 6, 2022

LENEXA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that Eurofins Viracor, a global leader in clinical diagnostic services, is opening a state-of-the-art laboratory in Lenexa that will create 235 new jobs. Eurofins Viracor held a ribbon-cutting …

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Governor Laura Kelly Joins Pratt Industries For Grand Opening of Park City Plant
October 3, 2022

~Company’s $200M Investment Will Create 58 New Jobs~ PARK CITY – Today Governor Laura Kelly joined officials from Pratt Industries as they opened their new state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing corrugated box plant in Park City. The plant …

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Governor Laura Kelly Breaks Ground on Hilmar Cheese Facility in Dodge City
September 30, 2022

~Facility Will Bring $1.1 Billion and 1,000 New Jobs to Southwest Kansas~ DODGE CITY – Today, Governor Laura Kelly participated in the groundbreaking of Hilmar Cheese Company’s new state-of-the-art production facility in Dodge City. In the …

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Governor Laura Kelly Celebrates Goodyear Tire Investing $125 Million in Topeka, Adding 40 New Jobs
September 21, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co.’s decision to invest $125 million and hire 40 new employees at its Topeka plant as part of modernizing its Kansas facility, which …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces JTM Foods is Expanding in Wichita
August 24, 2022

WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that JTM Foods, LLC has chosen Wichita as the new home of JJ’s Snack Pies, a popular treat available at many of the nation’s largest retailers, and has broken ground on a new manufacturing facility in the ict21 Industrial District. JTM Foods plans to hire 150 people within the next two years and invest $40 million in the Wichita facility.

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on North America’s Largest Wheat Protein Plant
August 9, 2022

~Phillipsburg Facility Is a $250M+ Investment that Will Create 60+ Jobs~ PHILLIPSBURG – Governor Laura Kelly today joined Amber Wave, a leader in sustainable agriculture, food ingredients, and low-carbon fuels, to cut the ribbon on …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Cybersecurity Company to Move Headquarters to Kansas
July 29, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced cybersecurity company Novacoast is relocating its corporate headquarters to Wichita from Santa Barbara, California. The company plans to bring 100 new high-tech jobs to the state and help …

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Kansas Lands $4B, 4,000-Job Panasonic Energy Electric Vehicle Battery Plant
July 13, 2022

~Governor Laura Kelly Successfully Wins Largest Economic Development Project in State History~ Topeka, Kan. – July 13, 2022 – Today, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., plans to build one of …

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Kansas Surpasses $9 Billion in New Economic Development Investment Since Start of Kelly Administration
June 27, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that since she took office in January 2019, Kansas has attracted over $9 billion in new investments by private sector businesses. This milestone continues the record-breaking economic development success Kansas …

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Kansas Wins Prestigious Gold Shovel Award for Economic Development Excellence for Second Consecutive Year
June 6, 2022

TOPEKA – Kansas has won Area Development magazine’s coveted 2022 Gold Shovel Award, marking the second year in a row the state has received this national recognition for excellence in economic development.   “For the …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 127 New Jobs, $110 Million Investment in Olathe
April 19, 2022

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Lineage Logistics is opening a new automated, next generation distribution center for Smithfield Foods, Inc., a vertically integrated food company and the world’s largest pork processor. The …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Largest Economic Development Investment in Kelly Administration History
April 18, 2022

~$650 Million in Business Investment in Kansas Economy, 500 New High-Paying Jobs in Manhattan~ MANHATTAN – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced her administration’s most significant economic development project to date. Scorpion Biological Services, a subsidiary …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $20 Million in Business Investment and 150 New Jobs in Wichita
March 15, 2022

~ Fagron Sterile Services, a Health Care Supply Manufacturing Facility Expanding in Sedgwick County~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Fagron Sterile Services’ (FSS) new expansion in Wichita which will result in more than …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Ranked First in Nation for Most Economic Development Investment Per Capita
March 2, 2022

~Governor Kelly Receives Site Selection Magazine’s Prestigious Governor’s Cup Award~ WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas won Site Selection Magazine’s 2021 Governor’s Cup for the state with the most economic development investment per …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Surpasses $7 Billion in New Business Dollars Invested in the State
October 21, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that since she took office in January 2019, more than $7 billion new business dollars have been invested in the state of Kansas and over 29,000 new jobs …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 100 New Jobs in Bonner Springs
October 14, 2021

~Medline Industries, Inc. to invest $77.5 million for new distribution center~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that Medline, the country’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of medical supplies, will invest $77.5 million …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 50 New Jobs in Montgomery County
October 12, 2021

~Agribusiness Bartlett to invest $325 million in Southeast Kansas to create new soybean facility~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded plans from Bartlett, a Savage Company, to invest $325 million in a large soybean …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Expansion at Berry Global Group, Inc. to Create 84 Jobs
September 14, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Berry Global Group, Inc. in Lawrence to celebrate a major project expansion that will create 84 new jobs and invest $61 million in the community. “Berry Global Group, …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Receives National Economic Development Recognition
September 13, 2021

~ Kansas breaks into Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition~ TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas has received Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition for 2021 – …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on Superior Boiler Expansion Project in Hutchinson
September 1, 2021

HUTCHINSON – Today, Governor Laura Kelly joined Superior Boiler to cut the ribbon on their new 73,000-square-foot facility – totaling a $2,786,000 business investment – in Hutchinson, Kansas. “Superior Boiler’s expansion in Kansas is more …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 250 New Jobs in Emporia
August 18, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Communications Solutions, LLC (CSLLC) will expand its operations to Emporia, Kansas, creating 250 new jobs. “Our partnership with CSLCC, which will create 250 new jobs in Emporia, is …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 75 New Jobs Coming to Wichita
August 5, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Brek Manufacturing Company’s plan to expand its operation into the state of Kansas. The Southern California-based aerospace company announced that it intends to purchase two buildings in Wichita, investing …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $28 Million Investment, 37 New Jobs in Manhattan
June 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today congratulated Bev-Hub on its new facility in Manhattan. Bev-Hub, a Wichita-based manufacturer, is investing more than $28 million into the Manhattan community to renovate a former brewery to meet …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Surpasses $6 Billion in New Business Dollars Invested in the State
June 29, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that since she took office in January 2019, more than $6 billion new business dollars have been invested in the state of Kansas and 26,000 new jobs have …

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Governor Laura Kelly Cuts Ribbon on Animal Science Innovation Center in Topeka
June 23, 2021

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Hill’s Pet Nutrition Small Paws Innovation Center in Topeka. Hill’s Pet Nutrition invested $20 million to build this 25,000-square-foot nutrition facility that will …

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces 80 New Jobs in Tonganoxie
June 22, 2021

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today applauded Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s plan to build a new pet food manufacturing plant in Tonganoxie. Hill’s will invest more than $250 million to construct a new 300,000-square-foot facility, bringing …

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Pretzels, LLC
December 9, 2020

Pretzels, LLC has announced plans to build a 146,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in the Lawrence Venture Park. The new facility will result in 281 new jobs and $88 million in new capital investment. The …

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Industrial Service Technologies
November 9, 2020

IST has announced it will bring its company headquarters and metal fabrication division to Tonganoxie, Kansas. The company plans to employ up to 37 people within five years. IST is constructing a 6,400 square foot …

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Modern Manufacturing
September 17, 2020

Modern Manufacturing has announced plans to open a new U.S. production facility in Eudora, Kansas, with 78 new jobs projected. The central location will feature state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment to produce high quality signaling equipment for the railroad industry. The …

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Great Plains Manufacturing / Kubota
August 13, 2020

Great Plains Manufacturing, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japanese affiliate Kubota North America Corporation, announced their upcoming purchase of a 750,000 sq. ft. building to further invest in their Salina, Kansas, operations in support of growing …

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Schwan’s Company
August 11, 2020

August 10, 2020 – Schwan’s Company, a leading food producer in the United States, has announced plans to build a new 400,000-square-foot expansion at its pizza-manufacturing facility in Salina, Kansas. The announcement of the project …

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Urban Outfitters (URBN)
August 5, 2020

Urban Outfitters’(URBN), has announced The Kansas Speedway will be home to its new 880,000 square foot distribution center. This exciting partnership between the State of Kansas and Urban Outfitters will bring nearly 2,000 new jobs and …

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Merck Animal Health
June 29, 2020

Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., USA, announced an investment of $100 million in facility expansion and enhancement efforts in its U.S. manufacturing site in DeSoto, Kansas. Investments to the …

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Tuthill Corporation
June 22, 2020

Tuthill Corporation has announced the opening of a new manufacturing site for Fill-Rite pumps and products located in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Expansion with the Lenexa, Kansas site will support Tuthill’s business and commercial model …

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Dot’s Pretzels, LLC
June 10, 2020

Dot’s Pretzels, LLC, selected Logistics Park Kansas City in Edgerton, Kansas, for their new manufacturing facility. The premiere pretzel brand in North America plans to begin operations later this year in the new facilitate that …

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Anderson & Forrester
May 21, 2020

Anderson & Forrester, founded in 1928 and a leader in orifice and conversion fitting needs, announced they will relocate their Denver operations to Clearwater, Kansas. The company credits Kansas’ highly skilled workforce and low cost …

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Black Canyon Home & Body
April 15, 2020

Black Canyon Home & Body, a Utah based business that manufactures, and sells beauty products such as; body lotions, hand sanitizer, perfumes, bath salts, shampoo and other hair products has announced their decision to relocate …

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Wilson Glass
March 25, 2020

Wilson Glass from St. Joseph, MO announced plans to build a 5,000 square foot manufacturing facility in the Urban Hess Business Park in Tonganoxie, Kansas. The company manufactures window frames and installs windows throughout the …

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Superior Boiler
March 25, 2020

Superior Boiler announced it will relocate its Richmond, Virginia, subsidiary to Hutchinson, Kansas. The company expects to add more than 50 jobs in Hutchinson over the next three to five years and all 30 employees who …

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Prosperiti Partners, LLC
March 2, 2020

Prosperiti Partners, LLC, based in Springfield, Missouri, has announced plans to acquire a 400,000 plus square foot former manufacturing building, and establish a state-of-the-art production facility in the Coffeyville, KS Industrial Park that will bring …

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Reiloy USA
February 18, 2020

Reiloy USA announced they are expanding their advanced manufacturing capabilities and capacity with plans to invest more than $20 million in a new building and new machinery to grow the German-owned company’s footprint in Maize. With …

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MMGY Global
January 24, 2020

MMGY will relocate its business operation to a new facility in downtown Overland Park, Kansas. MMGY provides integrated marketing and advertising services to clients in the travel industry. They are planning to bring 157 jobs …

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A Place for Mom, Inc.
January 14, 2020

A Place for Mom, Inc. (APFM) announced today the opening of its new office in Overland Park, Kansas. The largest senior care referral service in North America, with offices in Seattle, New York City and …

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Empirical Foods
December 23, 2019

Empirical Foods to Bring 300 Jobs to Garden City, KS. The empirical family of companies, formerly known as Beef Products Inc. (BPI), announced on Dec. 23 that it will start constructing a new ground beef facility …

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Walmart
December 11, 2019

Walmart has selected Topeka, Kansas to become the site of a new 1.8 million sq. ft distribution center. The company will invest $200 million and create 300 full-time jobs over the next five years. Walmart will …

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Regal Art & Gift
December 5, 2019

Regal Art & Gift, a wholesale garden decor supplier, will open a new distribution operation in Olathe, KS. The company plans to hire up to 20 employees and will invest $5.48M in capital. Founded in …

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Tool Source Warehouse Inc.
November 11, 2019

Tool Source Warehouse Inc., a Georgia-based wholesale tool distributor, announced it had signed a lease in a building at Lenexa Logistics Centre South. The company plans to occupy 153,000 square feet and create 25 jobs. …

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Provision Healthcare LLC
October 24, 2019

Provision Healthcare LLC, a vertically integrated company that manufactures proton therapy systems and owns and operates the cancer centers it develops, will build a 40,000-square-foot proton therapy center and a 90,000-square-foot medical office building on …

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ITRenew, Inc.
October 16, 2019

ITRenew, Inc. a leading global IT lifecycle management solutions provider based in Silicon Valley announced plans to expand operations to Olathe, KS. The company plans on creating up to 100 net new jobs over the next …

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Western Green
July 12, 2019

Western Green, a leading manufacturer of Rolled Erosion Control and Sediment Control Products, announced that they would open a new manufacturing facility in McPherson, Kansas. Western Green is projected to begin renovations of an existing …

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Railway Service Contractors
July 1, 2019

Railway Service Contractors will relocate its business operations to Wyandotte county, Kansas.  They will bring 12 new jobs and $670,000 of new capital investment to their new location.  The company performs locomotive and rail equipment, service, …

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1 Vision Aviation
June 20, 2019

1 Vision Aviation is planning to set up shop in Salina, bringing with it 50 jobs initially, and within three years up to 450 jobs. 1 Vision is currently headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa, and is FAA …

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Johns Manville (JM)
June 12, 2019

Johns Manville (JM), a global building and specialty products manufacturer and a Berkshire Hathaway Company, announced today a new Climate Pro® blowing wool production line will be built in McPherson, Kan. JM will begin construction …

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Quest Analytics
June 11, 2019

Quest Analytics will bring 143 new jobs and over $5 million of new capital investment to Overland Park, Kansas.  Quest Analytics is a healthcare tech company that designs and develops health plan provider network management software …

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Hostess Brands, LLC
May 8, 2019

Hostess Brands, LLC, announced the opening of a new distribution center located in Edgerton, Kansas. The new location creates synergies with proximity to Hostess’s corporate office as well as its Emporia bakery, access to a …

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Hostess Brands, LLC
May 8, 2019

Hostess Brands, LLC, announced the company will be moving its corporate headquarters to Lenexa, Kansas. The partnership between Hostess Brands, LLC and the state of Kansas over the past several years has allowed the company to …

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CarMax
May 6, 2019

CarMax, a member of the Fortune 500 and S&P 500, announced it will open a new Customer Experience Center this July in Olathe, Kansas, part of the Kansas City metro. The nation’s largest retailer of …

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UPG Solutions
April 30, 2019

UPG Solutions will bring 85 new jobs and $3.8 million of new capital investment to Leawood, Kan.  UPG provides proposal management software services and solutions to its customers.

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Faith Technologies
April 23, 2019

Faith Technologies, an energy expert in electrical planning, engineering, design and installation will expand its operation to Olathe, Kansas including its manufacturing division. The project will bring more than 780 positions and almost $40 million …

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AmeriLife Holdings
March 26, 2019

AmeriLife Holdings will relocate its business and expand its operations in Overland Park, Kansas. The company will bring 61 new jobs and $1.25 million of new capital investment to Kansas. AmeriLife provides insurance benefits and insurance consulting services.

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Card Compliant
March 10, 2019

Card Compliant will relocate its operations to Leawood, Kansas and expand its business in this state.   The company will bring 43 new jobs and almost $3.0 million of new capital investment to this state.  Card Compliant …

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SelectQuote Insurance Services
March 4, 2019

SelectQuote Insurance Services will bring over 900 new jobs and $10 million of new capital investment to Overland Park, Kan.  SelectQuote is an insurance agency that utilizes a sales center format to offer comparison shopping for …

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The Lewer Agency
March 3, 2019

The Lewer Agency will relocate its business and bring 52 new jobs and $3.5 million of new capital investment to Overland Park, Kansas. The Lewer Agency is a nationally licensed managing general insurance agency and third-party …

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Loomis Armored Us, LLC
March 1, 2019

Swedish-owned armored car service, Loomis Armored Us, LLC, will relocate regional operations to Kansas City, Kansas to allow for future growth.

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TrueAccord
February 19, 2019

TrueAccord, a San Francisco-based FinTech company, announced today it will invest $1.34 million in a new shared services operation in Lenexa, KS. The company will create more than 150 jobs in a 12,000-sq.-ft. office space. …

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Mears Group
February 14, 2019

Mears Group will bring 55 new jobs and almost $2.0 million of new capital investment to Lenexa, Kansas. This project involves a regional headquarters operation that provides services in gas and electric transmission, gas and electric distribution, …

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Honeywell International Inc.
February 7, 2019

Honeywell International Inc., announced plans to expand the Olathe, KS facility by adding over 100 jobs to their repair and overhaul division. The company’s Olathe location currently manufactures safety and flight control systems, weather radar …

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Kennyhertz Perry Law
February 4, 2019

Kennyhertz Perry Law will bring 11 new jobs and $1.5M of new capital investment to Mission Woods, Kansas.

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Receivables Performance Management Relocation
January 15, 2019

Receivables Performance Management will relocate operations from out of state and establish a new office location in Wichita, KS. The company specializes in accounts receivable management and will create 150 new jobs over a five-year …

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AG613
January 15, 2019

AG613 will relocate its business to Leawood, Kansas and bring 22 new jobs and over $2.0 million of new capital investment to this state.  AG613 is a real estate management company providing back-end support for the …

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Kansas Economic Spotlight

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Innovative Charles River Laboratories Right at Home in Kansas
March 8, 2024

Charles River Laboratories in Kansas is using innovative digital technologies and solutions to help more people receive effective medical treatments as safely and quickly as possible. At work in their state-of-the-art Integrated Toxicology Site in …

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Creekstone Farms Serving Premium Kansas Meats Worldwide
February 16, 2024

At Creekstone Farms®, excellence is a hallmark from field to fork. Arkansas City-based Creekstone Farms® produces premium beef and pork that’s sought after by consumers across the globe, with Angus beef and Heritage Duroc pork …

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Precious Metals Company Discovers Ideal Location in Rural Kansas
July 28, 2023

US Assets Recovery (USAR), a company specializing in precious metal recovery, refining and fabrication, is flourishing. In choosing a new location to grow, the Joplin, Mo.-based company recently looked to Kansas.    Floyd Langley, chief …

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Commerce internship program features reciprocal learning, career opportunities
July 14, 2023

Kelsey Haile was a college student at Wichita State University when she began an internship in 2021 at the Kansas Department of Commerce. The move was a major step forward in Haile’s career, as she’s …

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Kansas Department of Commerce has Golden Touch – Again!
June 30, 2023

The past few years in economic development have been golden in Kansas, with proof in three straight Gold Shovels presented to states with outstanding achievements — with the latest award recognizing a variety of successes …

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Celebrating Minority Business Success in Kansas
June 16, 2023

Sheila Ellis-Glasper has spent her career building and executing winning social media strategies for creative, purpose-driven businesses. She founded SEG Media Collective LLC in 2016 in Manhattan, offering branding and social media consulting and management …

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Lawmakers support economic growth policies for Kansas
June 9, 2023

Economic development is creating new opportunities for Kansans and improving communities of all sizes and in every part of the state. Kansas Department of Commerce partners in this wave of success with the Kansas Legislature, …

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Kansas Commerce at Work

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Private Companies are Exporting Kansas Brand and Products at Record Pace
April 21, 2023

Even as Kansas achieves record-breaking, historic economic development success, the state isn’t slowing down. Instead, Kansas is flexing its muscle as a top exporter and the best place for international companies to do business. Efforts …

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HEAL Projects Breathing Life into Downtowns Across Kansas
April 14, 2023

All across Kansas, once vacant and dilapidated downtown buildings now are bustling with activity. A new strategy of timely investments in Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants rolled out by Governor Laura Kelly’s administration are …

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GROWKS Loan and Equity Programs Winning Awards as They Assist Companies
April 7, 2023

The Kansas Department of Commerce and NetWork Kansas are working together to tear down barriers many entrepreneurs face when starting a business. In August 2022, Commerce — the state’s economic development engine — and NetWork Kansas, …

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Housing a Critical Component of Economic Development
March 31, 2023

Kansas’ record-setting pace in economic development means significant job growth, with the state creating or retaining almost 56,000 jobs since Governor Laura Kelly took office in 2019. That has the Kelly administration aggressively tackling a …

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Kansas Broadband Roadshow Gathering Useful Information from Real Kansans
March 24, 2023

In parts of Kansas, it’s easy for people to go online whenever and wherever they want.   But for too many Kansans, high-speed internet access is anything but a mouse click away. The ongoing challenge of …

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Kansas Takes Bold Steps Forward-Preparing Residents for Critical, In-Demand Careers
March 17, 2023

Chandler Roetzer’s highest priority is providing a good life for his family here in Kansas, which is why he’s developing high-tech job skills that will be in demand now and in the future. Roetzer, 26, …

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Kansas Continues its Award-Winning, Record-Setting Streak
March 10, 2023

Once overlooked and underestimated in economic development, Kansas has achieved the unexpected with record-shattering success — and one prestigious award after another. For the first time in state history, Kansas won the coveted 2021 Governor’s …

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Upcoming Commerce Events

STAR Bonds Webinar: Opportunities for Rural Communities

Calling all rural Kansas communities! We will be hosting a webinar October 26 at 10:30 a.m. to share how STAR Bonds can transform your community.

Mark your calendars for October 26 at 10:30 a.m. to learn how Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds can be used to transform your rural community! These bonds help Kansas municipalities develop major commercial, entertainment and tourism destinations. Spread the word!

Kansas Commerce Newsletter

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