Kansas state officials announced $117,408 in grant funding targeting 18 new tourism marketing projects designed to expand regional promotional reach and attract travelers across the Sunflower State.
Dodge City, Kingman, Ottawa, and Geary County Secure New Tourism Dollars
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland released the award allocations, noting that the state’s broader tourism sector generated $8.4 billion in visitor spending throughout 2025. The 18 grant recipients will collectively invest nearly $244,000 in matching funds to back their approved marketing campaigns.
“Tourism creates jobs, supports local businesses, and strengthens communities,” Toland said in the official release. “Investments in tourism marketing help communities build on that economic impact by attracting new visitors and showcasing everything Kansas has to offer.”
The funded initiatives span diverse geographic regions and creative promotional strategies:
- Boot Hill Museum: Awarded $4,200 to fund advertising and promotion targeting a 400-mile radius around Dodge City for the inaugural Unbridled Western Art Show opening in January 2027.
- City of Kingman: Received $3,000 to assist in developing a comprehensive tourism strategy and marketing strategic plan aimed at increasing overall visitation, spending, and overnight stays.
- City of Ottawa: Secured $6,600 for a targeted, multi-channel digital campaign positioning Ottawa as a hub for trail-based travel.
- Geary County CVB: Granted $10,000 for a collaborative campaign uniting the City of Junction City, Geary County, and Junction City Main Street to promote travel through paid digital media, CPM-based advertising, and search engine marketing tactics.
Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe emphasized that the grants give local partners the resources needed to translate creative concepts into tangible visitor engagement.
“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.”
Applicants and community leaders looking for further details regarding the Kansas Tourism Grant Program can review information directly or contact Grant Program Manager Babette Dixon via email at bdixon@kansascommerce.gov.
