Impact Grant

The Kansas Community Empowerment (KCE) Impact Grant is a state-funded initiative administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, designed to empower eligible communities with the resources to implement transformational, long-term projects that enhance public spaces and promote community vibrancy. This grant program specifically supports improvements that are permanent or highly sustainable in nature, setting it apart from the shorter-term focus of the Kickstart Grant. The goal is to encourage meaningful investments that revitalize local environments and instill civic pride through community-driven development. Eligible applicants must be Kansas cities enrolled in the KCE program and meet the criteria for the Community of Empowerment tier, which requires active volunteerism, annual goal-setting, project execution, and reporting. Grant awards can reach up to $15,000 per project. Organizations such as county or municipal governments, chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, community foundations, and nonprofits with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) status are eligible to apply. Other groups may participate by partnering with a qualified fiscal agent under a formal agreement. Projects must take place within the boundaries of a registered KCE community. The Impact Grant prioritizes efforts that refresh and re-energize local environments through placemaking and infrastructure upgrades. Examples of eligible projects include permanent public art installations, park and recreation enhancements, signage for downtown areas, community gardens, and investments in community center facilities. Ineligible projects include temporary improvements, promotional campaigns, digital marketing, or initiatives that fail to demonstrate long-term sustainability. All projects must result in durable improvements with a clear plan for continued maintenance beyond the grant period. The application process includes two annual rounds. For 2026, Round 1 applications are accepted from February 1 to March 31, with award notifications issued by May 1. Round 2 runs from September 1 to October 31, with notifications expected in December. Applications are submitted through an online portal (Salesforce), and late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed. Each KCE community is eligible for only one Impact Grant per two grant cycles. Projects must be completed within 12 months of approval, with a midterm report due at six months and a final report due no later than 13 months from the contract start date. All applications must include a project description, scope of work, budget narrative, timeline, and demonstration of community involvement. Evaluation is based on project need, purpose and narrative, volunteer engagement, feasibility, and long-term impact. The scoring rubric awards up to 100 points, with applications categorized as Exemplary, Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, or lower. Required attachments include tax clearance certificates, matching fund proof, covered technologies forms, signed policy acknowledgments, W-9s, and evidence of good standing with the Secretary of State. Grant payments are made within 30 days of award notification. For questions, applicants are encouraged to contact Sara Bloom, Quality Places Director, at [email protected].

Proposals should demonstrate long-term sustainability, clear alignment with community vision, and detailed project readiness to score highly.