State Incentives

Brownfields

Brownfields are real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Often the potential liability associated with contamination complicates business development, property transactions, or expansion on these properties. Cleaning up and redeveloping brownfields properties is necessary to preserve neighborhoods, reduce urban sprawl, and stop the continued development of new industrial and commercial facilities on farmland. By investigating and cleaning up a brownfields property and taking care of the site's potential health or environmental risks, communities can use local land again - producing jobs, increasing the tax base, or adding other benefits such as creating a park or residential area. 

Industrial Revenue Bonds

Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) are among the most popular and cost-effective methods of financing up to 100 percent of a new or growing business’ land, buildings and equipment. In Kansas, IRBs are issued by cities and counties. Proceeds from the sale of the bonds to private investors are made available to enable companies to purchase land and pay the costs of constructing and equipping new facilities or the costs of acquiring, remodeling and expanding existing facilities.

STAR bonds

Sales Tax Revenue (STAR) Bonds provide Kansas municipalities the opportunity to issue bonds to finance the development of major commercial, entertainment and tourism areas and use the sales tax revenue generated by the development to pay off the bonds.

Historical Tax Credits

Historical tax credits are available for state and federal income taxes through the State Historic Preservation Office. Federal tax credits must be applied for prior to beginning work on the property. Both federal and state credits are only available for properties listed as “contributing” to the Downtown Historic District. 

Heritage Trust Fund

Competitive historic grant program through the State Historic Preservation Office for properties that are listed as “contributing” to the Downtown Historic District. Grant deadline is in November. 

CDBG Downtown Commercial Rehabilitation Grant

Competitive grant through the State Department of Commerce to assist downtown building owners in the rehabilitation of blighted structures. A specific for-profit business operation must locate in the building. Deadlines are in February and August. Grant writing services available through SEKRPC.

Historic Preservation Partners (HPP)

Competitive grant program to assist in the stabilization and rehabilitation of historic properties. The maximum amount for a single project is $15,000. Applications are accepted semi-annually on March 1 and October 1.