Kansas Tourism Awards $117,400+ for Tourism Marketing Projects

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that $117,408 has been awarded to support 18 new tourism marketing projects across Kansas. These grants will help communities expand their marketing efforts, reach new audiences, and inspire more visitors to explore the Sunflower State.

“Tourism creates jobs, supports local businesses, and strengthens communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “In 2025 alone, tourism activity generated $8.4 billion in visitor spending across the state, and investments in tourism marketing help communities build on that economic impact by attracting new visitors and showcasing everything Kansas has to offer.”

In total, the 18 grant recipients will invest almost $244,000 in matching funds towards approved marketing projects, leveraging the grant funding to expand their promotional reach. 

These projects demonstrate the creative approaches communities are taking to inspire travel and elevate tourism in Kansas. Examples of that creativity include:

• Boot Hill Museum – $4,200 for advertising and promotion targeting a 400-mile radius around Dodge City for the inaugural Unbridled Western Art Show opening at the museum in January 2027
• City of Kingman – $3,000 to assist the development of a comprehensive tourism strategy and marketing strategic plan focused on increasing visitation, spending and overnight stays 
• City of Ottawa – $6,600 for a targeted, multi-channel digital campaign promoting Ottawa as a hub for trail-based travel
• Geary County CVB – $10,000 for a campaign bringing together the City of Junction City, Geary County and Junction City Main Street promoting travel through paid digital media, CPM-based advertising, and search engine marketing tactics 

To view the full list of Tourism Marketing Grant awardees, visit here.

“Every Kansas community has something worth discovering, and effective marketing helps connect those experiences with the people who are looking for their next adventure,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “These grants help our tourism partners turn creative ideas into opportunities to reach new visitors and encourage them to explore more of Kansas.  When our communities shine, our entire state benefits.”

For more information about Kansas Tourism grants, visit here or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Babette Dixon at [email protected].