Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson has announced $1.5 million in grants through the state’s new Home in the Heartland program, aimed at helping small towns attract new residents and boost local economies.
Created by the Kansas Legislature in 2025, the initiative is designed to help rural and mid-sized communities facing population loss. Johnson said the grants will give local leaders the resources to launch their own recruitment and retention programs.
“Working with the State Legislature, communities across Kansas are stepping up with their own resources and plans to address residential recruitment and retention issues,” Johnson said in a statement.
According to the state, declining populations threaten the growth and stability of many Kansas communities. The grants can be used for relocation incentives, marketing, and program administration. Each community receiving funds must set measurable goals for attracting new households, including income-based eligibility criteria. Half of the funds are distributed upfront, with the remainder released once half of the relocation targets are met.
The following communities and organizations received grant funding:
• City of Kingman – $76,800
• City of Neodesha – $40,000
• City of Parsons – $73,200
• Dodge City / Ford County Development – $211,374
• Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce – $167,362
• Hutchinson / Reno County Chamber of Commerce – $225,000
• Lincoln County Economic Development – $53,340
• McPherson County Community Foundation – $72,000
• Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce – $145,600
• Choose Ottawa County – $73,156
• Riley County – $187,084
• Salina Area Chamber of Commerce – $175,084
Johnson said the grants represent a partnership between the state and local communities to ensure Kansas continues to grow and thrive.