Small Business Grants

The 2026 Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship Small Business Grants program is offered by the Kansas Department of Commerce (KDC) in partnership with the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship (KOA). This initiative reflects Kansas' continued efforts to strengthen its workforce pipeline by addressing talent gaps in high-wage and high-demand occupations. The KOA and Kansas Apprenticeship Council have aligned the grant’s strategy with the state’s broader Framework for Growth, specifically targeting the “Talent” pillar of economic development. This grant is specifically tailored for small businesses that employ fewer than 25 full-time workers. Recognizing the critical role these businesses play in sustaining the Kansas economy, the grant offers $7,000 one-time awards to assist with the registration of new apprentices in qualifying occupations. These apprenticeships must fall within sectors targeted for accelerated growth, including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, transportation, food and agriculture, professional and technical services, healthcare, and education. The intention is to leverage apprenticeships as a mechanism for both workforce development and long-term business succession planning. Eligibility for the program requires applicants to have a Kansas-based business address and be in good standing with the Kansas Department of Revenue. Businesses must have fewer than 25 full-time employees and be either exploring the Registered Apprenticeship model or have set one up without having hired an apprentice yet. Additionally, the apprenticeship position must offer at least $15 per hour as a starting wage, include a progression pathway, and be tied to occupations with strong current and projected employment growth. The grant funds may be used for a variety of implementation costs, including staff time for program planning, acquisition of training equipment, contracting services, related technical instruction, and administrative overhead. However, the funds cannot be used to pay apprenticeship wages. Disbursements are processed via reimbursement, and awardees will be required to submit quarterly narrative and fiscal reports as part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) process. The application window for this opportunity is open from March 15 through April 30, 2026, or until all funding has been allocated. A total of at least $49,000 is available, with the expectation that seven awards of $7,000 will be granted. Notifications of award decisions are scheduled to begin as early as May 1, 2026. All funded projects must be fully completed by May 30, 2027. This grant program is contingent upon the approved budget of the State of Kansas and may be adjusted based on available funds. Applicants are advised to apply promptly, as funding is limited and will be distributed on a first-come basis.