Recent Stories
September 16,2024-Residential Opportunities on Main Street (ROOMS) Grant
Rural communities continue being revitalized! The Residential Opportunities Main Street (ROOMS) program has teamed up with Kansas Main Street to invest in downtown areas across Kansas. Eight communities received $50,000 to make each downtown more desirable and address needed housing. Rural downtowns have been described as lacking appeal and consisting of unutilized upper-floor space.
Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland commended the project’s importance to improve the quality of life in these communities and attract future residents. Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell highlighted the buildings will be repurposed into additional residential units to help solve housing issues throughout our state. The rehabilitation of the downtown commercial districts will incorporate historic preservation.
This grant is specifically for Kansas Main Street communities. To view the application process for the program, click here. To view this year’s inaugural grant recipients, click here.
August 28,2024-CIVIC Innovation Planning Grant
Fort Hays State has been awarded a $76,446 grant from the National Science Foundation. The CIVIC Innovation Planning Grant will fund a 6-month research development project aimed to enhance health equity for survivors of gender-based violence in rural Western Kansas. Experts within our Docking Institute will join faculty members Ziwei Qi from Criminal Justice, Rachel Dolechek from Applied Business Studies, and Naishuo Sun from Social Work to address the resource scarcity for the healing and recovery of sexual violence victims.
The team will explore and address the identified lack of transportation, affordable services, and care, which are crucial for recovery of sexual violence victims. Together, new initiatives will help the community better strategize resources to facilitate recovery. Expanding partnerships with on-campus programs, academic departments, educational institutions, public health organizations, and community members will help establish long term sustainable solutions.
For more information on the research project beginning October 2024 click here.
August 8,2024-Grow Hays and The Grove Housing Development
Exciting news for Hays! The Grove housing development is progressing as the construction of the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is set to begin soon. Grow Hays’ new initiative is driven by the need to address both housing and childcare shortages. The planned community center will house the relocated Senior Center, additional childcare, and rooms for the community to enjoy. The property around the center will be developed into a variety of housing marketed to retirees.
Hays Medical Center generously donated the land for the facility to be built north of HaysMed on Canterbury Drive. CEO of Hays Medical Center Eddie Herrman highlighted the location will provide direct access to HaysMed facilities. Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams emphasized the Grove’s role in creating much needed age-appropriate housing for the community.
Grow Hays broke ground on the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center at the Grove housing development in July. Construction will begin in August. For more information click here.
June 26, 2024-Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansas (DOCK) and Learning Tree Institute
The Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansas (DOCK) grant program is providing $2.8 million to 15 organizations across the state. Laura Kelly awarded these investments to improve the digital skills of Kansans who have not been able to fully utilize the internet in “economically distressed counties.” In particular, the grants aim to provide literacy training needed to effectively live, work, and compete in our technology-driven society. The selected organizations are promoting foundational courses for applications such as Microsoft Office Suite, Canva, QuickBooks, and more.
Among the awardees is the Learning Tree Institute in Girard, KS. In partnership with the Southeast Kansas Education Service Center, Learning Tree will direct their portion towards creating 200 digital literacy products, establishing distribution channels, and reaching 15,000 seniors, ages 55 and older, to improve access to information, increase health care access, and employability.
As noted by Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins, digital literacy will broaden skillsets and strengthen communities across Kansas. For more information or to view this rounds awardees click here.
May 30, 2024-Grow Hays and the MicroFactory
The recently completed Grow Hays MicroFactory, a 30,000 square-foot incubator, aims to minimize financial risks for startups and established businesses alike. Described as a space "where small scale manufacturing meets big scale potential," the facility will support businesses in their early stages, offering affordable rental rates and essential resources.
Kansas Lieutenant Governor/Secretary of Commerce David Toland commended the work of Grow Hays, and the potential for the MicroFacrory to bring new success to the rural region. Governor Laura Kelly praised the project, stating it will foster entrepreneurship, create jobs, and attract investment to Central Kansas.
David Clingan, Director of Recruitment and Retention for Grow Hays highlighted the project's goal of setting businesses up for success by reducing costs and providing supportive programs. Clingan emphasized the MicroFactory’s role in addressing regional limitations such as high lease rates and lack of suitable production spaces.
To read more about the MicroFactory click here https://www.growhays.com/microfactory/
March 28, 2024-Kansas Small Business Person of the Year: Dallas Haselhorst
A story of rural success from our hometown of Hays, Kansas. Dallas Haselhorst, the owner of Treetop Security LLC, was awarded SBA’s 2024 Kansas Small Business Person of the Year award. Treetop Security LLC is located in Hays, Kansas and specializes in cybersecurity and preserving customer data. KSBDC has secured Treetop Security LLC as a valued resource partner and praises the company for its pivotal contributions to the field. Haselhorst also owns STEM harvest and Cold Stone Creamery in Hays.
Over the past six decades, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has diligently celebrated National Small Business Week. The week involves a plethora of in-person and virtual events to recognize small business owners, their invaluable partners, advisors, and investors. These events are orchestrated to honor their indispensable role in fortifying their local communities and stimulating the economy. Business owners like Dallas promote rural prosperity through their continued innovation and dedication. To learn more about National Small Business Week and Dallas Haselhorst click here.
March 8, 2024-Rommey Farms
In 2016, Susan Rommelfanger and Don Rommelfanger started Rommey Farms, located in the heart of the Flint Hills just west of Cassoday, Kansas. Together, they embarked on a journey to not only produce fresh, sustainable food but also to educate and connect with their community.
Their venture, Rommey Farms, started modestly with a half-acre garden plot and a dream to provide fresh produce to their neighbors. Through dedication and hard work, their business blossomed, supported by loyal customers and partnerships with local organizations like Shop Kansas Farms and the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s From the Land of Kansas program.
Central to their mission is fostering relationships with consumers. They established a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, offering seasonal produce directly to members. This initiative, along with farm stand sales and online stores, has seen remarkable growth, reflecting the community's eagerness to support local farmers.
But Rommey Farms is more than just a business—it's a hub for education and community engagement. Partnering with local nonprofits, the Rommelfangers promote healthy eating habits and sustainable farming practices. Their latest endeavor, the Prairie Wellness Foundation, advocates for nutritious food and wellness initiatives. It’s uplifting to see Kansans supporting rural agriculture and business like Rommey Farms. To learn more about Rommey farms and their work click here.
February 28, 2024-Thrive Allen County and Thrive Kansas
Thrive Allen County is a coalition dedicated to ushering in a new era of rural revitalization. Their approach focuses on leveraging the unique strengths of local residents to cultivate healthier, more vibrant communities. Following their own success, Thrive Allen County took their strategies statewide through the creation of Thrive Kansas. Lead by Lisse Regehr, their mission is “To strengthen Kansas’ non-metropolitan communities, bringing them together to support one another and to create a stronger unified voice, ensuring they are heard and have a seat at the legislative table, and to demonstrate the invaluable role our communities play in our state.”
Thrive wears many hats - they're conveners, local policy leaders, goal-setters, and advocates, all rolled into one dynamic organization. Whether it's improving access to healthcare, promoting wellness initiatives, or championing important public issues, Thrive is at the forefront of driving positive change.
Why does this matter? Because enhancing quality of life isn’t a luxury, it's vital for the survival and prosperity of rural towns. Thrive's vision for Kansas extends far beyond the present, working toward empowering individuals, improving access to resources, and building a brighter future for generations to come. To read more about Thrive’s resources and passion for rural success click here.
February 15, 2024- The Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership Program
The Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) program is a transformative two-year curriculum for those wanting to make a difference in their own rural communities. KARL aims to identify, prepare, and connect aspiring leaders to positively impact Kansas agriculture. The program offers immersive seminars, national and international study tours, and a curriculum focused on environmental, economic, and political challenges. Since 1991, over 400 participants have gained invaluable skills for the betterment of their communities. Headed by Jill Zimmerman, KARL empowers leaders to make informed decisions, develop action plans, and shape a brighter future for our state. To learn more about the program, or to become a legendary leader click here.
February 7, 2024-Sprucing Up Downtown: HEAL Grant Provides Funds to Improve Main Streets Across Kansas
Exciting news for Kansas communities! The Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant program is providing nearly $1.4 million to 21 projects across the state. These grants, supported by both Governor Kelly and the Kansas Legislature, aim to rejuvenate rural downtown areas, fostering safer environments and job opportunities. The project emphasizes the importance of vibrant downtowns in driving economic growth and community pride. Administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, HEAL targets underutilized downtown structures, transforming them into multipurpose spaces. Lieutenant Governor Toland highlights the program's role in supporting rural economic growth and enhancing community appeal. If your rural community could benefit from a vibrant downtown, the Docking Institute provides strategic grant writing services for state grants such as this. For more information or to read more about this round’s awardees click here.
January 29, 2024-Small Town, Big News: Meet the High Schooler Who Transformed Hutchinson, Kansas with the Hutchinson Tribune!
December 13, 2023-Lincoln County & Make My Move
Lincoln County, under the visionary leadership of Kelly Gourley, Director of Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation, is taking a unique approach to attracting new residents. Lincoln County is piloting a remote employee recruitment program, working with Make My Move.
Through this partnership and a grant from the Innovation Center, Lincoln County can offer relocation incentives to those willing to make the move. A year into the program, they've welcomed their first family with more on the way. The program not only benefits remote workers but also has a positive ripple effect on the local community—supporting businesses, schools, and enriching the overall quality of life.
This partnership is not just about numbers; it's about transforming communities and creating a brighter future for rural America. As Lincoln County and Make My Move continue to make waves, their story serves as an inspiring testament to adaptability and hope.
The video and more information can be found at Make My Move.
November 30, 2023-Harvest Hub
This success story highlights the incredible work being done in Rice County by the newly established Harvest Hub. The Harvest Hub began when the need to establish a more well-rounded regional food system was recognized by locals. Founders of the Harvest Hub recognized the lack of local opportunities for processing and distributing local food. In less than a year, the Harvest Hub has been awarded grants from the USDA and repurposed an old school kitchen to provide a place for local growers to process and sell their products. The Harvest Hub hopes that the Rice County location is just the beginning and dream of creating sustainable food systems across Kansas. Learn more about the Harvest Hub of Rice County by visiting Facebook and searching for “Harvest Hub”.
November 20, 2023-Innovation Center Rural Housing
This week’s rural success story highlights the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc. and their work to enhance housing opportunities. Randy Speaker, the new Regional Housing Specialist, has an extensive background in government work that supports economic and community development. Randy and the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc. are on a mission to revitalize communities across the 26-county region they serve. Randy is actively repurposing underutilized buildings in the region, with a focus on transforming old schools, nursing homes, and outdated models into workforce housing units. To further understand and address housing needs communities are encouraged to conduct self-assessments using Kansas Department of Commerce’ Housing Assessment Tool (HAT). The Docking Institute of Public Affairs Institute provides housing studies that comply with Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) information expectations.
November 13, 2023- Ellis County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Winners
This rural success story showcases the talents of youth entrepreneurs in Ellis County! Grow Hays, Inc. proudly hosted the Ellis County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) on November 7th, a dynamic event held at BriefSpace in downtown Hays. This competition, designed to instill the spirit of entrepreneurship in high school students, witnessed 26 young minds presenting their innovative ventures. The Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Series aims to promote entrepreneurship and small business development in Kansas, providing a platform for student-created, managed, and owned ventures. These young entrepreneurs showcased not only their innovative business ideas but also demonstrated the resilience and creativity essential for making rural living not just sustainable but thriving.
Let's celebrate the innovative spirit of these young entrepreneurs and look forward to their success on the statewide stage!
October 17, 2023-Minority Business Advocate of the Year
This rural success story (or, at least, certainly not entirely metro) highlights the incredible journey of Sheila Ellis-Glasper, Founder and CEO of SEG Media Collective, LLC, a powerhouse in building and executing winning social media strategies for purpose-driven businesses. SEG Media Collective, LLC was founded in Manhattan, Kansas, and now serves businesses across the United States. Her commitment to underrepresented businesses and economic justice led to the founding of Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills which empowers, equips, and engages black business owners in the region. In 2021, Sheila was honored as the Kansas Department of Commerce, Minority Business Advocate of the Year. Through her guidance both businesses continue to empower brands to amplify impact, revenue, and legacy in an inclusive way.
If you want to learn about this year’s Minority Enterprise Development Awards winners: click here
October 4, 2023- The Rural by Choice Champions
This week’s rural success story highlights a game-changing initiative created by the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Rural Prosperity. These 12 individuals pictured below were selected by the Rural by Choice Champions program to take on various critical projects across the state. These Rural Champions will create community roadmaps for change that other communities can then implement. Together, we can move the needle and drive positive change where it’s needed the most. #ruralbychoice
To learn about these champions and their individual projects: click here
The Rural by Choice Champions include:
- City of Harper, Harper County – Housing Champion
- City of Kingman, Kingman County – Child care Champion
- Clay County – Child care Champion
- Community Foundation for Independence, Montgomery County – Trails and Wellness Champion
- Dodge City, Ford County – Child care Champion
- Graham County – Economic Development and Entrepreneurship Champion
- Junction City, Geary County –Entrepreneurship Champion
- Lincoln County – Placemaking and Workforce Champion
- Linn County – Housing Champion
- Morton County – Mental Health Champion
- Oberlin Unified School District 294, Decatur County – Child care Champion
- Wallace County – Community Development Champion
September 20, 2023-Ellsworth Youth in Action
We are thrilled to share a remarkable story of rural success featured in the latest edition of Northwest Kansas Today magazine. This article shines a bright spotlight on the incredible youth in Ellsworth who are making a difference by serving on community boards, thanks to the Youth on Board initiative.
“We’re starting to really recognize the value of having the youth voice in building civic capacity” says Executive Director of Grow Ellsworth County, Stacie Schmidt.
It's truly inspiring to witness these young leaders stepping up and actively engaging in the betterment of the community. Their passion, dedication, and fresh perspectives are shaping the future of rural Kansas in profound ways.
Read the full article click here starting on page 18.