Kansas Department of Commerce News Feed

Parkinson names chair, vice-chair of Kansas Broadband Advisory Task Force

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA ─ Governor Mark Parkinson has named Brad Williams and Randall Allen as chair and vice-chair, respectively, of the Kansas Broadband Advisory Task Force, a group of industry and policy leaders who will help develop the state’s long-term broadband strategy.

Kansas Department of Commerce allocates Recovery Zone Bond authority, issues call for additional applications

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has allocated $92.3 million in Recovery Zone Facility Bond authority for 11 business projects and $13.845 million in Recovery Zone Economic Development Bonds for three public improvement projects, officials announced today. The Department is also accepting applications for an additional $18.8 million in Recovery Zone Facility Bond authority and $38.3 million in Recovery Zone Economic Development Bond authority.

KANSAS! magazine fall edition hits newsstands, mailboxes this week

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for a great way to explore Kansas, get some exercise and enjoy the cooler autumn weather? Then grab the fall edition of KANSAS! magazine and check out “Hit the Trails,” a six-page guide to the best trails in Kansas for hiking, biking and everything in between.

Zeolyst International to expand Wyandotte County facility

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wyandotte County’s Zeolyst International – a global leader in zeolite powders, catalysts and adsorbents – will undergo a 43,000 square-foot expansion of its existing 1700 Kansas Avenue location in 2012-2013. The expansion will create 33 new jobs and $83 million in capital investment.

Kansas shines in Business Facilities magazine’s 2010 Rankings Report

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been named a Top 10 state in eight of 20 categories in Business Facilities magazine’s 2010 Rankings Report, officials announced today.

Kansas grabs No. 3 ranking in “Top Deals and Hot Markets” report

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been ranked No. 3 in Southern Business & Development magazine’s annual “Top Deals and Hot Markets” report, the state’s highest-ever finish in the survey, officials announced this week.

Twenty-nine Kansas communities to share more than $9.2 million in CDBG funds

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Twenty-nine Kansas communities will share a total of $9,261,370 in federal grants through the Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced this week.

Kansas ranked No. 7 in annual Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States report

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For the second straight year, Kansas has been ranked the nation’s No. 7 most business-friendly state in the Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States report, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced today.

Bombardier Aerospace to expand Learjet site in Wichita

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bombardier Aerospace today announced the expansion of its Learjet production site in Wichita to include the new Learjet 85 jet, creating at least 300 jobs and $600 million in total investment in Kansas.

Kansas businesses invited to African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, this forum facilitates trade and economic discussions between Sub-Saharan African countries and U.S. businesses. The forum will provide attendees an opportunity to discuss trade and capacity-building opportunities with African decision-makers. The two-day agenda includes workshops, roundtable discussion and face-to-face networking with African ministers and businesses leaders.

Spectra Composites chooses Columbus for new warehousing, distribution facility

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Spectra Composites, a Missouri-based distributor of composite materials for various industries, has purchased a new distribution and warehousing facility in Columbus, Kan., creating nine new jobs and $1,650,770 in capital and operational investment.

Kansas ranks No. 11 in CNBC’s annual Top States for Business report

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been ranked No. 11 in CNBC’s annual America’s Top States for Business report.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host five-part agritourism course

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Farmers, business owners and entrepreneurs interested in agritourism are invited to attend a five-part agritourism course in August at the Netawaka Community Building in Netawaka, Kan.

Dodge City named newest designated Kansas Main Street city

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced Dodge City as the newest member of the Kansas Main Street program, bringing the total number of Kansas Main Street cities to 26.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host agritourism workshop

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Farmers, business owners and entrepreneurs interested in agritourism are invited to attend a free agritourism workshop July 12 from 6-8 p.m. at the Netawaka Community Building in Netawaka, Kan.

Kansas Department of Commerce announces Community Service Tax Credits

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded $4.13 million in Community Service Tax Credits to 21 nonprofit organizations around the state, officials announced today.

Kansas awarded Silver Shovel Award by Area Development magazine for job creation, capital investment

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For the fourth time in five years, Area Development magazine has named Kansas a winner of the Silver Shovel Award for excellence in job creation and capital investment.

Governor Parkinson announces Governor’s Award of Excellence, Governor’s Exporter of the Year at Kansas Cavalry Encampment

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

HAYS ─ Governor Mark Parkinson tonight named Landoll Corporation of Marysville the winner of the Governor’s Award of Excellence, while Osborne Industries of Osborne was named the Governor’s Exporter of the Year, at the annual Kansas Cavalry Encampment at Fort Hays State University.

Governor Parkinson to announce Governor’s Award of Excellence, Governor’s Exporter of the Year at Kansas Cavalry Encampment in Hays

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson will announce the winner of the Governor’s Award of Excellence and the Governor’s Exporter of the Year, the two highest honors a business can receive from the State, on Tuesday, June 29 at the annual Kansas Cavalry Encampment at Fort Hays State University.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Kansas Pavilion at Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Eight Kansas specialty food companies will market their products and connect with industry members from around the world June 27-29 at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards Columbus with $315,000 in CDBG funding

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the City of Columbus with $315,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding so the City can provide a working capital loan to Spectra Composites of Kansas, LLC, a distributor of fiberglass, resin and coating material for the marine and tank industry.

Governor Parkinson to host Chinese Consul General tomorrow in Topeka

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA ─ Governor Mark Parkinson will host the new Consul General of China to Chicago, Yang Guoqiang, tomorrow afternoon in the Capitol to renew business ties between China and Kansas.

Kansas Department of Commerce to begin accepting applications for Recovery Zone Bond authority July 1

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will begin accepting applications July 1 for $46 million in available Recovery Zone Facility Bond and $31.5 million in Recovery Zone Economic Development Bond allocation authority for business and public improvement projects.

Site Selection magazine names Kansas a Top 10 state in Competiveness Award

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been named one of the nation’s 10 most competitive states for capital investment and new facility development by Site Selection magazine, a leading publication for site location consultants.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards training funds to Matrix Electronic Measuring

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded Matrix Electronic Measuring, a leading producer of machines and measuring systems for the automotive repair industry, with $2,100 in Kansas Industrial Retraining funds to help the company train three employees at its Salina facility.

Kansas Department of Commerce names Business Appreciation Month winners

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has named 26 Regional Business Excellence Award winners and 105 Merit Award winners as part of Business Appreciation Month, the Department’s annual celebration of Kansas businesses and their contributions to their communities and the state economy.

Kansas Department of Labor releases first-ever Kansas Green Jobs Survey results

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA – Kansas employers have more than 20,000 green jobs and expect to have more than 30,000 such jobs by 2012, according to results from the state’s first-ever survey to identify and measure green jobs based on information from Kansas employers.

Royal Farms Dairy of Garden City selected to give virtual farm tour at World Dairy Expo

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Royal Farms Dairy of Garden City has been named one of only eight dairies to give a virtual farm tour presentation at the 2010 World Dairy Expo, the world’s premier dairy conference, Sept. 28 – Oct. 2 in Madison, Wis.

Commerce Secretary Thornton joins state, local tourism officials for National Tourism Week news conference

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA – Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary Bill Thornton joined state and local tourism officials today for a National Tourism Week press conference to highlight the state’s tourism industry and announce summer promotions for the state’s Travel & Tourism Division and Visit Topeka Inc.

Allen Foods to build Topeka facility

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Allen Foods has confirmed its decision to build a new manufacturing facility in Topeka, Kansas on a 20-acre site in the Central Crossing Commerce Park in south Topeka. The Company, which produces fresh baked goods, will build a state of the art commercial bakery and create in excess of 50 new jobs in the area. The company’s capital investment in Topeka will exceed $30 million.

Governor Parkinson to join state, local tourism officials for National Tourism Week news conference

Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA – Governor Mark Parkinson will join state and local tourism officials for a press conference to celebrate National Tourism Week and announce summer promotions for the state’s Travel & Tourism Division and Visit Topeka Inc. on May 12 at 11 a.m. at the Kansas Museum of History.

Jupiter Group to establish wind turbine component production facility in Junction City

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Jupiter Group, a Denmark-based producer of wind turbine components, will open a new manufacturing facility in Junction City, creating 120 jobs and $2.4 million in capital investment, pending final lease negotiations with the City of Junction City.

Dodge City named host city for Kansas MarketPlace conference

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Center for Rural Affairs have named Dodge City as the site of this year’s Kansas MarketPlace: Opening Doors to Success conference Nov. 16-17.

Kansas Department of Commerce unveils 26 new "Come Home" videos

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce unveiled 26 new Kansas promotional videos today as part of the state’s “Come Home” campaign to help Kansas businesses and organizations with their recruitment and retention efforts.

Kansas Department of Commerce to unveil “Come Home” promotional videos

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce will unveil 26 new Kansas promotional videos Tuesday at 11 a.m. as part of the state’s “Come Home” campaign to help Kansas businesses and workforce professionals with their recruitment and retention efforts.

Kansas Rural Center, Kansas Department of Commerce to host agriculture marketing workshops

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Rural Center and the Kansas Department of Commerce will host a series of five direct marketing workshops for agricultural producers beginning April 27 throughout Kansas.

Volvo Aero Services picks Winfield for new warehousing, distribution facility

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Volvo Aero Services Corp., a leading provider of aftermarket services in the aviation industry, will open a new distribution and warehouse facility in Winfield, Kan., creating at least four new jobs and $1.67 million in capital investment.

Kansas Department of Commerce announces Exporter of the Year finalists

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce, in conjunction with the Kansas International Trade Coordinating Council, has announced the five finalists for the 2010 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, which is presented to a single Kansas company for outstanding international marketing achievements.

Kansas Department of Commerce hosts Iraqi trade delegation in Topeka

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce today hosted a delegation of Iraqi business officials and leaders to discuss governmental affairs, the American political process and potential trade opportunities between Kansas and Iraq.

Travel & Tourism Division invites students, teachers to celebrate spring with My KANSAS! magazine project

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Travel & Tourism Division invites all students in grades 5-12 to participate in the My KANSAS! magazine project, which encourages participants to showcase their favorite things about Kansas by creating their own edition of the popular KANSAS! magazine and submit it to a statewide student competition.

Three Kansas companies awarded nearly $18.9 million in Recovery Act funds to expand broadband Internet infrastructure

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Central Telephone Association, Inc. (Medicine Lodge), Madison Telephone, LLC (Madison), and J.B.N. Telephone Company, Inc. (Holton), have been awarded a combined $18,889,200 in federal Recovery Act funds for broadband Internet infrastructure projects in rural Kansas, officials announced today.

Great Bend to host 2010 Heartland Byways Conference

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Great Bend will host the 2010 Heartland Byways Conference, representing the scenic byways of 10 Midwestern states, April 7-9 at the Best Western, The Page and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.

Lawmakers celebrate Kansas Agriculture Day with Kansas foods lunch

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

State lawmakers will celebrate Kansas Agriculture Day on Thursday by feasting on a lunch of Kansas foods.

Regent Asset Management Solutions to Expand in Overland Park

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Regent Asset Management Solutions (RAMS), a customized collection agency, will expand its call center in Overland Park and add as many as 1,200 jobs, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Southwest Kansas Dairy Tour

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce and the western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) are inviting dairymen, business leaders and journalists to participate in the Southwest Kansas Dairy Tour, which is designed to showcase Kansas as a prime location for dairy farming, March 25 in Finney and Gray counties.

Spartech Corporation to expand Wichita production facilty

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Plastics manufacturer Spartech Corporation will expand its Wichita production facility, adding 18 new jobs and $4.4 million in capital investment, officials announced today.

Updated maps, datasets available to assist Round 2 applicants for federal broadband funding

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Updated county-level broadband coverage maps and Census block-level datasets are now available at www.ConnectKansas.org to assist Kansas service providers and organizations applying for Round 2 federal broadband infrastructure funds.

Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns joins national campaign to promote hiring people with disabilities

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns today launched its new employer-focused Web site, www.kansasemployability.com, as part of its local effort to support the national “Think Beyond the Label” marketing campaign to promote the hiring of workers with disabilities.

Kansas Department of Commerce accepting nominations for Business Appreciation Month Awards

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has again designated June as Kansas Business Appreciation Month and is accepting nominations for the annual Kansas Business Appreciation Awards, which serve as a statewide tribute to Kansas businesses for their contributions to our state.

Kansas Department of Commerce provides City of Neodesha with CDBG funding

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the City of Neodesha with $390,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding so the City can provide a working capital loan to Airosol Company, which blends and packages automotive, household and industrial products.

Second round of grants, loans for rural broadband Internet projects opens today

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Internet service providers and other organizations throughout Kansas are encouraged to apply for the second round of federal funding for rural broadband Internet projects beginning today through March 15.

Kansas Department of Commerce allocates Recovery Zone Bond authority

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has allocated $30.617 million in Recovery Zone Facility Bond authority for four business projects and $11.93 million in Recovery Zone Economic Development Bonds for three public improvement projects, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards $500,000 in Small Communities Improvement Program grants

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Six rural Kansas communities will share $500,000 in Small Communities Improvement Program funding from the Kansas Department of Commerce, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce provides Burrton with $490,000 in CDBG funding

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the City of Burrton with $490,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding so the City can provide a working capital loan to Hardwood Cabinets, LLC, a manufacturer of custom and semi-custom cabinets.

Travel & Tourism Division announces funding for four tourism projects

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Travel & Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce will provide a combined $100,000 in Attraction Development Grant funding to four Kansas organizations to develop tourism projects.

Rural Telephone Service Co. awarded $101 million in Recovery Act funding for broadband Internet infrastructure improvements in central, western Kansas

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Rural Telephone Service Co. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Nex-Tech, has been awarded more than $101 million in Recovery Act funding for broadband Internet infrastructure improvements in central and western Kansas, officials announced this week.

Benefit Management Inc. to add 11 new jobs at Great Bend facility

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Benefit Management Inc. (BMI), a provider of third-party administration services, will add 11 new jobs at its Great Bend facility, state and company officials announced today.

Fourteen Kansas communities to share more than $3.5 million in CDBG funds

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Fourteen Kansas communities will share a total of $3,515,026 in federal grants through the Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced this week.

Kansas awarded $6 million Recovery Act grant for green jobs

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been awarded a $6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to train Kansans for employment in green industries, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards Water and Sewer funds to 18 communities

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Eighteen Kansas communities will share $6,955,094 in Water and Sewer grants through the federally funded Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced today.

Kansas Wind Energy Supply Chain Survey results now available

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Results of the Kansas Wind Energy Supply Chain Survey, which was designed to measure the state’s wind energy capabilities and guide future wind initiatives, are now available at www.kansaswindindustry.com, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards training funds to KBK Industries

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has provided custom fiberglass manufacturer KBK Industries with $5,000 in Kansas Industrial Retraining funds to help the company train 10 employees at its Rush Center facility.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards CDBG Housing Rehabilitation funds to three communities

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Three Kansas communities will share $1.2 million in Housing Rehabilitation grants through the federally funded Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Kansas Wind Supply Chain Workshop

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will host the second Kansas Wind Supply Chain Workshop on Jan. 14 from 1–5 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency in Wichita.

U.S. Bank to open service center, add 1,100 jobs in Overland Park

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Bank will open a new service center in Overland Park, Kan., creating 1,100 new jobs and at least $21 million in capital investment.

J.P. Morgan announces headquarters move to Overland Park

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services has signed a 10-year lease to occupy a new headquarters on the Sprint Campus in Overland Park, Kan., creating 800 new jobs and at least $44 million in capital investment.

Kansas Department of Commerce accepting nominations for 22nd Annual Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2010 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, which is presented to a single Kansas business for excellence in international trade and marketing.

Commerce Secretary Thornton issues statement on negotiations with Cerner, Unified Government

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Today, in an effort to continue working toward an agreement that benefits Kansas and Cerner, Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary Bill Thornton tailored the Department's Oct. 15 proposal to allow Cerner to receive the IMPACT funding at the front end of the project, rather than in periodic installments over the lifetime of the project, which is how IMPACT funds are typically distributed.

Tindall Corporation to open wind turbine base plant, add 400 jobs in Newton

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tindall Corp., headquartered in Spartanburg, S.C., plans to construct a new facility to manufacture concrete base systems for wind turbines that will enable the towers to be extended to optimal heights for maximum power generation. The project means 400 jobs and $66 million in capital investment for Kansas. It was not previously economically feasible to construct conventional steel towers to these heights.

Lt. Governor Findley, Kansas Secretary of Commerce Thornton host Connect Kansas rural broadband initiative news conference

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA ─ Lt. Governor Troy Findley and Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary Bill Thornton hosted a news conference today to unveil Kansas’ $2 million federal grant for the Connect Kansas rural broadband initiative.

Kansas awarded $2 million from NTIA for broadband mapping initiative

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas has been awarded a $2 million matching grant by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to fund broadband mapping and planning through the Connect Kansas initiative.

Standard Motor Products employees eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Independence-based employees of Standard Motor Products who became totally or partially separated from employment beginning Sept. 22, 2008, through Oct. 23, 2011, may be eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance through the Kansas Department of Commerce, officials announced today.

Honeywell International employees eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Olathe-based employees of Honeywell International who became totally or partially separated from employment beginning May 18, 2009, through Oct. 22, 2011, may be eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance through the Kansas Department of Commerce, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards KAN STEP funding to four communities

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded nearly $1.2 million in federal Kansas Small Towns Environment Program (KAN STEP) funding to the cities of Sterling and Mankato, as well as Pratt and Anderson counties. The funding will be matched by more than $1.1 million in donated equipment, labor and cash from recipient communities and private donors.

Kansas Department of Commerce recommends 22 broadband projects for federal Recovery Act funding

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has recommended 22 state broadband projects for Recovery Act funding through the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), officials announced today.

Governor Parkinson names Bill Thornton Acting Secretary of Commerce

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson today named William (Bill) Thornton as Acting Secretary of the Department of Commerce.

Governor Parkinson to lead trade mission to China

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson will lead a trade mission to China from November 6-15 to advance Kansas’ business ties with the country and renew Kansas’ longstanding sister-state relationship with Henan Province, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards training funds to MCM Inc.

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Department of Commerce has awarded tricycle manufacturer Midwest Contracting & Manufacturing (MCM) Inc. with $4,000 in Kansas Industrial Training funds to create eight new jobs at its WaKeeney facility.

Kansas Department of Commerce presents Main Street Awards of Excellence

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce last night announced the winners of the Main Street Awards of Excellence at the annual Kansas Downtown Symposium at the Riverfront Community Center in Leavenworth.

Kansas Department of Commerce appoints five new members to Agritourism Advisory Council

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has appointed five agritourism business owners/operators to the Agritourism Advisory Council, the group that works alongside Commerce to promote the state’s agritourism industry.

State of Kansas presents incentives proposal to Unified Government

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David Kerr today presented the Unified Government of Wyandotte County with a proposal that could bring a new Cerner office complex and a Kansas City Wizards soccer stadium to the Village West District.

Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary Kerr comments on Cerner discussions

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The following is a statement from Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David Kerr regarding the Department’s ongoing discussions with Cerner:

Governor Parkinson, Secretary Kerr to lead trade mission to Taiwan

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson and Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David Kerr will lead a trade mission to Taiwan from October 18-25 to advance Kansas’ business ties there, officials announced today.

Travel & Tourism Division to host annual Kansas Tourism Conference

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Travel & Tourism Division, in conjunction with the Travel Industry Association of Kansas, will host the 2009 Kansas Tourism Conference on Oct. 18-20 at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center in Overland Park.

Governor Parkinson to visit Cereal Ingredients Inc. of Leavenworth

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson will visit Cereal Ingredients Inc. on Monday, Oct. 5 in Leavenworth to celebrate the company’s winning the 2009 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award.

Department of Commerce to host Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development will host its 25th Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon on Oct. 15 at noon at the Ramada Inn in Topeka.

Governor Parkinson, Commerce Secretary Kerr to host Taiwan trade delegation

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA ─ Governor Mark Parkinson and Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David D. Kerr will host a Taiwanese trade delegation today at 11:30 a.m. in the Senate Chamber, where leaders will sign a Memorandum of Understanding regarding Taiwan’s continued purchase of Kansas wheat.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards IWW funding to eight community projects

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will award $75,000 in Incentives Without Walls funding for eight community improvement projects in Chanute, Holton, Hutchinson, Manhattan, Phillipsburg and Seneca, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards Incentives Without Walls funding to eight community projects

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas Department of Commerce to host annual Kansas Downtown Symposium

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will host the annual Kansas Downtown Symposium on Oct. 21-23 at the Riverfront Community Center in Leavenworth.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Kansas Wind Supply Chain Workshop

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will host the Kansas Wind Supply Chain Workshop on Oct. 5 from 1–5 p.m. at the Ramada Inn & Convention Center in Topeka.

Travel & Tourism Division to promote KANSAS! magazine at Kansas State Fair

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Travel & Tourism Division will promote its popular KANSAS! magazine from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Pride of Kansas Building each day during the Kansas State Fair, Sept. 11-20.

Kansas Department of Commerce announces Community Service Tax Credits

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded $4.13 million in Community Service Tax Credits to 20 nonprofit organizations around the state, officials announced today.

KANSASWORKS Chanute office to host open house

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The KANSASWORKS Chanute workforce center invites all employers and job seekers to an open house Sept. 16 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. to learn about workforce services available through the center.

Kansas Department of Commerce invites wind energy companies to complete Kansas Supply Chain Survey

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce is inviting all wind-related businesses and organizations to complete the online Kansas Supply Chain Survey.

Kansas Department of Commerce accepting nominations for Agritourism Advisory Council

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for membership on the Agritourism Advisory Council, the group that works alongside Commerce to promote the state’s agritourism industry.

Forty-four Kansas communities to share nearly $13 million in federal CDBG funds

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Forty-four Kansas communities will share a total of $13,081,660 ─ including $4,370,331 in stimulus dollars ─ in federal grants through the Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced this week.

Kansas ranked No. 7 in CNBC’s annual Top States for Business report

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s 7^th Heaven for Kansas business leaders this week, thanks to the state’s No. 7 finish in CNBC’s annual America’s Top States for Business report.

National Mills, Inc. employees eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pittsburg-based employees of National Mills, Inc. who became totally or partially separated from employment beginning May 19, 2008, are eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance through the Kansas Department of Commerce, officials announced today.

German TV network visiting Kansas, filming documentary on Santa Fe Trail

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ARD Network, Germany’s largest public television network, will be in Kansas today through July 26 to film a documentary on the Santa Fe Trail, officials announced today.

Kansas to automatically enroll Unemployment Insurance applicants for job-search services

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The State of Kansas has launched a new registration process that automatically registers Unemployment Insurance (UI) applicants for job-search services available at KANSASWORKS.com, the State’s official labor exchange job posting site.

Kansas Department of Commerce launches Connect Kansas broadband initiative

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA ─ The Kansas Department of Commerce today launched Connect Kansas, a new initiative designed to increase broadband Internet access throughout rural Kansas.

American Recovery Act to fund expansion of rural high-speed Internet in Kansas

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas organizations and Internet service providers are invited to apply for federal funding intended to improve broadband Internet access in rural areas, officials announced today.

Deluxe Corporation to expand operations in Lenexa

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:01:13 GMT

Business services provider Deluxe Corporation will add up to 50 new employees and make between $10 million and $15 million in capital investments at its Lenexa facility, located at 16505 West 113th St., company and state officials announced today.

First Stop Clearinghouse to be transferred to Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The First Stop Clearinghouse Program, which is designed to serve as a one-stop resource for Kansas small-business owners and entrepreneurs, will move from the Kansas Department of Commerce to the Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship (d.b.a. NetWork Kansas), effective July 1.

Parkinson announces Governor’s Award of Excellence, Governor’s Exporter of the Year

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:00:00 GMT

OVERLAND PARK –– Governor Mark Parkinson tonight named BTI of Greensburg the winner of the Governor’s Award of Excellence, while Cereal Ingredients of Leavenworth was named the Governor’s Exporter of the Year, at the annual Kansas Cavalry Encampment at Johnson County Community College.

Parkinson to announce Governor’s Award of Excellence, Governor’s Exporter of the Year tonight at Encampment

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson will announce the winner of the Governor’s Award of Excellence and the Governor’s Exporter of the Year, the two highest honors a business can receive from the State, tonight at the annual Kansas Cavalry Encampment at Johnson County Community College.

Kansas named a Top 10 pro-business state by Pollina Corporate Real Estate for second consecutive year

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the second straight year, Kansas has been named a Top 10 pro-business state by Pollina Corporate Real Estate, one of the nation’s premier corporate relocation firms.

Kansas Department of Commerce names Business Appreciation Month winners

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has named 28 Regional Business Excellence Award winners and 151 Merit Award winners as part of Business Appreciation Month, the Department’s annual celebration of Kansas businesses and their contributions to their communities and the state economy.

Office of Minority and Women Business Development accepting nominations for Minority Enterprise Development Week

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Office of Minority and Women Business Development is accepting nominations for Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, the State’s annual celebration of women- and minority-owned businesses in Kansas.

NCO Group nears completion of 725-employee expansion at Lenexa facility

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NCO Group, Inc., a leader in business process outsourcing solutions, is nearing the end of a 725-employee expansion at its Lenexa facility, where the company handles various contract inbound customer service activities, officials announced today.

Parkinson to present Governor’s Award of Excellence, Exporter of the Year awards

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governor Mark Parkinson will announce the Governor’s Award of Excellence and the Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award at the annual Kansas Cavalry Encampment on June 25 at Johnson County Community College.

Kansas Department of Commerce announces results of online agritourism survey

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas agritourism industry continues to diversify and experience growth in total revenue and visitation rates, according to a Kansas Department of Commerce online survey.

KANSAS! magazine summer edition hits newsstands, mailboxes this week

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Few states can claim as important a role in the Civil War as Kansas. And few places can give you a glimpse back in time like Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area, which is featured in the summer edition of KANSAS! magazine, released statewide this week by the Travel & Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce.

Travel & Tourism Division announces first round of My KANSAS! magazine project winners

Thu, 21 May 2009 06:00:00 GMT

The Travel & Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce has named students from Argonia, Eureka, Hutchinson and Marysville as winners in the first My KANSAS! magazine competition, which encourages students in grades 5-12 to showcase their favorite things about Kansas by creating their own edition of KANSAS! magazine.

Kansas posts record-setting $12.47 billion in exports for 2008

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas businesses totaled a record $12.47 billion in exports in 2008, marking the fourth straight year Kansas has achieved an all-time high and the fifth straight year of overall export growth, officials announced today.

Travel & Tourism Division launches “Kansas Moments” TV commercials

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Travel & Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce has unveiled five new TV commercials in 10 Midwestern markets — just in time to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week.

Siemens Energy chooses Hutchinson as site of new wind turbine equipment factory

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Siemens Energy has selected Hutchinson as the site of a new wind turbine equipment production facility, state and company officials announced today. The operation is expected to create an estimated 400 green-collar jobs and will be the first large-scale wind turbine equipment factory in Kansas, which is ranked third in the nation for wind energy resource potential. The 300,000-square-foot facility and adjacent 80,000-square-foot service and repair facility will be built on more than 100 acres in Reno County, which is located northwest of Wichita on the Arkansas River. Construction is expected to begin in August.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards funding to nine community projects

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will award more than $90,000 in Incentives Without Walls funding for community improvement projects in Coffeyville, Holton, Leavenworth, McPherson, Ottawa, Phillipsburg, Phillipsburg, Seneca and Sterling, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards funding to nine community improvement projects

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Department of Commerce, Goodyear agree on proposal for Topeka plant

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce will provide up to $14.2 million in training incentives to The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., allowing the company to make capital investments of up to $250 million at its Topeka plant and retain up to 1,400 Topeka employees for 10 years, officials announced today.

Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns to host 60th Anniversary Celebration

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns will present its annual advocacy awards and celebrate six decades of service on behalf of Kansans with disabilities at the organization’s 60th Anniversary Celebration on March 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library.

KANSAS! magazine announces My KANSAS! magazine project

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

KANSAS! magazine invites all students in grades 5-12 to participate in the My KANSAS! magazine project, which encourages participants to showcase their favorite things about Kansas by creating their own edition of KANSAS! magazine and submit it to a statewide student competition.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Kansas Agritourism Conference in Great Bend

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce is inviting all Kansas agritourism vendors and agricultural producers to attend the 2009 Kansas Agritourism Conference on March 25-26 in Great Bend.

Kansas Department of Commerce accepting nominations for annual Business Appreciation Month Awards

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has again designated June as Kansas Business Appreciation Month and is now accepting nominations for the annual Kansas Business Appreciation Awards, which serve as a statewide tribute to Kansas businesses for their contributions to our state.

Kansas agritourism operators invited to complete online survey

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce is inviting all Kansas agritourism operators to complete an online survey designed to help Commerce staff measure the economic impact of agritourism statewide.

KANSAS! magazine spring edition hits newsstands, mailboxes this week

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking to soak up the college game day atmosphere but don’t have a ticket to the game? Then grab the spring edition of KANSAS! magazine and check out “College Hoop-la,” a three-page guide to the best places in Lawrence and Manhattan to cheer on the Jayhawks and the Wildcats.

Travel & Tourism Division announces funding for tourism projects

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Travel & Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce will provide six tourism attractions and events a combined $129,670 in annual Attraction Development Grant funding, officials announced today.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards Water and Sewer funds to 12 communities

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Twelve Kansas communities will share $4,044,515 in Water and Sewer grants through the federally funded Community Development Block Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce announced today.

Kansas Visitors Guide, Calendar of Events now available

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009-10 Kansas Visitors Guide and 2009 Kansas Calendar of Events, the state’s two most popular travel publications, are now available at travel centers statewide and online at TravelKS.com.

Lieutenant Governor Parkinson hosts Chinese business delegation in Topeka

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lieutenant Governor Mark Parkinson and Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David Kerr hosted a business delegation from China’s Henan Province — Kansas’ long-time sister-state partner — today in Topeka to discuss trade and investment opportunities.

Kansas Department of Commerce awards funds to Prairie Fire BioEnergy Cooperative

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded biomass pellet fuel manufacturer Prairie Fire BioEnergy Cooperative with $10,000 in Kansas Industrial Training funds to help the company add 19 jobs at its Healy facility.

Kansas named preferred location for NBAF

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas’ national leadership in animal health research and industry has made it the preferred location for a $451 million federal scientific laboratory that will accelerate animal disease research to protect the American food supply and agriculture economy.

BioTarget to establish facility at University of Kansas Medical Center

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

BioTarget, a Nebraska-based drug company specializing in cancer treatments, will lease space for a new research and development facility on the University of Kansas Medical Center campus, creating 13 new jobs and $1 million in capital investment.

Kansas Department of Commerce, KU CIBER to host Global Perspectives

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) at the University of Kansas hosted a kickoff luncheon Nov. 17 at The Woodward in Topeka to announce Global Perspectives, a new leadership development program focusing on globalization and international business. Guests included leaders from business, government and academia throughout Kansas.

Kansas Department of Commerce to host Veterans Career Fairs

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Department of Commerce will host five Military Veterans Career Fairs today in five Kansas cities. The Veterans Career Fairs will provide Kansas veterans a chance to meet area employers who are looking to hire various full- and part-time positions. Career Fair attendees will also receive resume-writing and job-search assistance, as well as information on certification, training and educational opportunities for veterans.