Kansas Department of Commerce announces SEED Grants

The Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grants program, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, aims to revitalize rural Kansas communities with populations under 5,000 by supporting quality-of-life projects. These grants are part of the Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institutions Development and Expansion Act, enacted in 2021, which seeks to promote economic growth and the development of trust banks in rural areas. The SEED program aligns with this broader legislative framework by offering targeted funding to help small towns thrive economically through strategic investments in community assets. SEED grants support projects that enhance the community's vibrancy and services, particularly in four key categories: childcare and senior programming, community vibrancy, food retail, and libraries. Examples of eligible projects include improvements to childcare and senior centers, public art installations, food market expansions, and upgrades to library facilities. Projects must result in tangible, lasting improvements, such as new playground equipment, public art, or infrastructure that benefits local food retail. However, the grants cannot be used for one-time programming, salaries, or consumable goods, ensuring that funds are directed toward long-term, sustainable community development. To be eligible, applicants must be located in one of the specified rural counties of Kansas and represent a county or municipal government, an economic development organization, a local chamber of commerce, or a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) non-profit organization. All projects must take place in communities with populations under 5,000 and must be completed within 12 months of receiving the funds. A 10% local match is required, ensuring that communities are financially invested in the success of the project. Additionally, SEED grants emphasize the importance of community partnerships, encouraging local organizations to collaborate on projects that address shared goals. Eligible projects under the SEED program are varied but must fall within one of the four categories. Childcare and senior programming can use the funds for items like educational materials, health equipment, and playground equipment. Community vibrancy projects might include public art installations, park improvements, or new signage for main streets. Libraries can use funds to purchase books, technology, or upgrade facilities to better serve the community. Food retail projects focus on expanding access to local food sources through improvements to market spaces or the purchase of necessary equipment. The application process for SEED grants requires applicants to provide a detailed budget and proof of the 10% matching funds. The maximum grant award per applicant is $25,000, which can be split among multiple project categories, such as childcare, libraries, and community vibrancy. Applicants are encouraged to be creative in how they leverage the funds to address pressing community needs and improve the overall quality of life for residents. Ineligible expenses for SEED grants include temporary services such as speaker fees, event costs, and salaries, as well as consumable goods like food or paper products. The focus is on funding projects that have a lasting physical impact on the community and can contribute to long-term economic and social revitalization. The program encourages sustainable growth and improved access to essential services in Kansas' most rural areas.