For Immediate Release:
July 9, 2025
Contact:
Patrick Lowry
785-250-4562
Patrick.Lowry@ks.gov
Commerce Awards $4.1 Million in Tax Credits to Spur Revitalization Efforts
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Department of Commerce has awarded $4.1 million through the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP) to support significant fundraising efforts for 30 non-profit organizations across the state.
“Strong, vibrant communities are what draw new businesses, visitors and potential residents to Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “CSP allows locally led initiatives to attract additional capital support – and further expand the economic opportunities in their communities.”
The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services.
Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors that make contributions towards approved projects. Organizations in rural areas with populations less than 15,000 can receive a 70% credit, while communities with more than 15,000 population can receive a 50% credit.
“We know that thriving communities are the foundation of a strong economy, and these awards empower organizations to take on bold investments in the future of Kansas,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “From early childhood education to mental health services, these projects will be transformative for our Kansas communities.”
A few highlights from the latest round of awardees include:
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Imaginarium, Inc., Emporia ($40,500 credits awarded): A new 360 interactive space will provide powerful learning experiences and real-world simulations, specifically for those with special needs and who benefit from low-stress environments but need to learn life skills
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Wamego Community Foundation, Wamego ($85,050 credits awarded): USD 320 is pursuing a two-year facility lease to launch a high-quality Early Learning Center for newborn children to age 5 to address the urgent need for childcare and support educator retention
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Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center, Garden City ($162,000 credits awarded): This project will remodel 3,200 square feet of space to include a forensic medical exam room, mental health therapy suites, family waiting area, a children’s activity center and additional office space to enhance confidentiality and support
Tax credits through this program have been issued in Kansas since 1994. Program funds are one of the many tools provided by Commerce that supports nonprofits. To view the complete list of 2025 awardees and their projects, click here.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce:
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses, and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
About the Quality Places Division:
Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.
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