Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that $1 million in Attraction Development Grant funding was awarded to support the development and enhancement of tourism projects across Kansas. The Kansas Tourism grant program supports projects that strengthen visitors’ experiences while driving local economic growth through job creation, private investment and increased visitation.
“Investments in tourism and our state attractions have been a powerful driver in economic growth for our communities of all sizes and for all of Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By pairing state support with local commitment, we’re expanding tourism opportunities that create positive economic returns by bringing more out-of-state visitors and out-of-state dollars to Kansas.”
This round of Attraction Development Grant funding will support 22 projects, including new attractions and enhancements to existing tourism assets. Collectively, recipients will invest more than $12 million in matching funds to bring the projects to life.
“Travelers in Kansas are looking for experiences that feel authentic, creative and rooted in place,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “The grants are designed to help turn unique and inspiring ideas into tangible projects that will go to support and encourage visitation and elevate local economies.”
A few highlights from this round of awardees include:
- A climate-controlled building for dock-diving dog events at Heartland Hounds in Emporia; $100,000
- A new, 70,000 square foot habitat for Amur tigers at the Rolling Hills Zoo in Salina; $75,000
- World’s Largest Toto in Wamego; $16,000
To view the full list of Attraction Development Grant recipients, visit here.
For more information on the grant program, click here, or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Babette Dixon at [email protected].
A full list of grants offered by the Kansas Department of Commerce can be found here.
