Simply Kansas Event Grants

To encourage the use of Simply Kansas products at events, the Simply Kansas program, administered by the Agriculture Marketing Program of the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA), provides grants in a competitive process to assist with the costs associated with hosting a Simply Kansas event. The Simply Kansas Event Planning Guide is an excellent resource, providing helpful tips for using Simply Kansas products in an event. In addition, templates for a Simply Kansas menu, menu cards and tables tents will make marketing your event very easy. Use the Simply Kansas Event Request for Bid form when contacting the Simply Kansas companies to request a price quote for products.

Individuals, businesses, state agencies and other entities, as determined by the Department of Agriculture staff, may apply for grant funding. All applicants must be in good standing with the Rural Development Division of the Kansas Department of Agriculture and with the State of Kansas (with no outstanding bills or reports). All applications are subject to availability of funds and the maximum grant award per application is $250.00.

The Simply Kansas Event grant program requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match from the applicant in the amount of the program grants. Entities may apply for a total of three grants, with total cumulative grant award per company of $750.00.  Preference will be given to first time applicants or to previous applicants whose event reaches a new target audience. KDA will reimburse the applicant, up to the allowed grant amount, upon receipt of documentation of paid expenses.  No funds will be granted for services purchased before grant approval is secured.  Funds may not be used for salaries, personal expenses, or travel. 

Events must serve a minimum of 50 attendees and reach a specific target market to qualify for funding. Funds can be used for:

• Purchase of Simply Kansas products (must include a minimum of three Simply Kansas products) Helpful hint: Use the Simply Kansas Event Request for Bid form when contacting the Simply Kansas companies to request a price quote for products.
• Fees associated with food preparation
• Corkage fees/beverage dispensing fees
• Menu/table tent printing
• Displays, signage and/or decorations
• Shipping fees
• Other event expenses deemed appropriate by the Department of  Agriculture staff

Grant applications will be reviewed within two weeks of receipt.  Subject to availability of funds, applications are reviewed and rated by KDA staff. If additional information is required, the applicant shall be provided with notice, in writing, to submit additional information. Applications cannot be processed until all requested information is received.

 For further information on the Simply Kansas Event Planning grant or the Simply Kansas trademark program, please contact Becky Sullivan at: 785-296-6080 or becky.sullivan@kda.ks.gov.