Relocation Assistance Makes Western Kansas a Wise Choice

If you’re looking for a place to start a business, raise a family, or advance financially, consider living in a rural community – it comes with significant incentives that can help individuals reach their goals. Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (WKREDA) is a coalition representing the 55 western Kansas counties to achieve our individual and collective development goals.

One of the most critical goals is establishing avenues to recruit, train and retain a qualified workforce for area business and community development. Internal activities include marketing high-demand job openings and potential growth opportunities while facilitating workforce training. Other WKREDA emphasis centers on educating employers on competitive wage and benefits compensation practices. 

Externally, WKREDA relies on numerous local, state and federal programs and initiatives to facilitate workforce recruitment, highlighting student loan assistance programs, tax credit incentives and apprenticeship programs for people who move to a designated rural area in Kansas. These programs work together to teach in-demand skills and build a workforce of financially thriving citizens. Learn more below about some benefits of relocating to beautiful Western Kansas.

Kansas Rural Opportunity Zones

Ninety-five Western Kansas counties are designated Kansas Rural Opportunity Zones (ROZs). These ROZs can offer residents Student Loan Repayment Assistance for full-time residents and 100% State Income Tax Credit, making them an attractive relocation hub.

To qualify for Student Loan Repayment Assistance, residents must have an active student loan balance in their name, as well as an associate’s, bachelor’s, or post-graduate degree prior to moving to the participating county. Over the course of five years, the county can repay up to $15,000 of student loan debt. This also makes Kansas an ideal place for business expansion, as it attracts a qualified, educated workforce looking for student loan assistance.

For residents who are interested in receiving a tax credit, living in a Rural Opportunity Zone can provide a 100% state income tax credit. Individuals who relocate can often have their student loans repaid and receive a state income tax credit just by residing in one of Kansas’ peaceful rural communities. Residents who choose to relocate there save tens of thousands of dollars on taxes while benefiting from a low cost of living.

Are you interested in living in a Rural Opportunity Zone? Take advantage of the financial benefits and apply here.

Registered Apprenticeship Programs

The Kansas Registered Apprenticeship Program has been carefully crafted for both employers and career seekers across Kansas. This program is a pathway to success for young members of the workforce, blending on-the-job experience with technical instruction and supportive mentorship. The program’s goal is to foster long-term growth and create a skilled workforce in Kansas that supports stakeholders, sponsors, and local businesses.

In Kansas, every Registered Apprenticeship program undergoes a thorough approval process by the Kansas Apprenticeship Council. This council is deeply committed to broadening its impact and raising awareness throughout Kansas rural communities, with a vision to grow the Kansas Apprenticeship to the top 25 by 2025. The council's dedication to creating occupational proficiency for present and future generations makes Kansas an attractive place for business expansion.

Make My Move

MakeMyMove is a national marketplace seeking to facilitate individuals and families to find the right place to live. Two programs exist in Western Kansas today. Persons relocating to Lincoln County, KS, can receive $4,500 Cash, a $500 credit towards high-speed internet service, a 100% Kansas state income tax waiver through the 2026 tax year (if eligible) and even a free lot to build a house. The Northwest Kansas Region has an incentive program with $ 4,500 cash and other potential options, including daily passes to existing coworking spaces to facilitate remote work.

WKREDA has positioned Kansas perfectly to attract educated young people, grow their skills, and give businesses everything they need to successfully expand. To learn how WKREDA can assist your business development, get in touch today.