Economic Development
Business Startup & Expansion
Thinking of starting your own business or needing resources to expand your existing business? The Kansas Business One Stop is an online platform that will quickly get your business operating and growing.
Need a little more hands-on assistance with starting your business? Contact the Kansas Small Business Development Center at FHSU for free planning, market research, licensing, financial templates, and resource assistance. You will be able to make more informed business decisions and avoid costly mistakes. SBCD has eight regional offices across the state, and with one nearby in Hays, you have the professional assistance to get started.
Business Financing
Barton County works hard to connect local businesses to our regional and state partners, including NetWork Kansas and Central Kansas Development Inc, help to finance new opportunities that promote economic development. Additionally, that are several local banks that provide small business loans, and would be happy to assist with explaining your business financing options.
Economic Development Exemption (EDX)
The Board of Tax Appeals provides instruction and technical assistance for entities applying for an Economic Development Exemption from Ad Valorem taxation on real estate and tangible personal property for up to ten years. The exemptions apply to land, building, machinery, and equipment for new or expanding businesses. A non-refundable application fee applies.
Industrial Revenue Bonds
The Board of Tax Appeals provides instruction and technical assistance for entities applying for Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB). Property financed with the proceeds of an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB) may be exempt from property taxation for ten years. The cost of building materials and permanently installed equipment is exempt from state and local taxes. Barton County and its cities have been very open to IRB financing over the years. A non-refundable application fee applies.
Property Tax Abatement
The Board of Tax Appeals provides instruction and technical assistance for entities applying for tax abatements on real estate property. The entity must complete an application with the KS Board of Tax Appeals (there is a non-refundable fee, a Cost-Benefit Analysis Worksheet must be completed, and generally there is a public hearing). A non-refundable application fee applies.
Neighborhood Revitalization Program
The Neighborhood Revitalization Program is a tool for municipalities to encourage aging and deteriorate commercial districts and residential neighborhoods within their communities. Property owners who complete rehabilitation or new construction on residential, commercial, or industrial buildings in the target area can receive tax rebates to increase an appraised value, which results from their work. The cities of Claflin, Ellinwood, Great Bend, and Hoisington have implemented this program in Barton County. This incentive does not apply in the unincorporated parts of the county. Please contact each respective city for more information about the application process.
Kansas Department of Commerce
The Kansas Department of Commerce offers a variety of tax credits and financing meant to stimulate business commerce.
- Angel Investor Tax Credit - for qualified investors
- Corporate Income Tax Credit - for specific industries (oil, childcare, film, etc), contact your accountant
- Kansas Downtown Redevelopment Tax Rebate - rebates for property tax for qualified business improvements
- Machinery & Equipment Expensing Deductions - for new expense deductions, contact your accountant
Barton Community College
Barton Community College works regionally to provide robust workforce training. Workforce development is critical to business sustainability, and Barton Community College has the experience, faculty, and industry expertise to meet your company’s needs. Barton works to fulfill employer needs in high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand areas.
Kansas Industrial Training Program (KIT)
Kansas Industrial Training Program (KIT) is a comprehensive and flexible workforce training program designed to respond to the specific needs of new and expanding companies. To be eligible, a company must create at least one new position at an average wage equal to or greater than the median wage for their county. KIT may be used to provide training costs for instructor salaries; curriculum planning and development; materials, supplies, textbooks; training aids; minor training equipment. Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and there is a $500 non-refundable application fee.
Job Opportunities
Barton County employers are hiring! Our area offers a variety of opportunities from CPAs, engineers, marketing managers, to manufacturing laborers, we have hundreds of open roles just waiting to be filled.