The Kansas Department of Commerce has launched the new Building Local Opportunities for Community Knowledge, or BLOCK, grant program to support transformational downtown development. The program will award one Kansas community $500,000 to revitalize an entire downtown block through a coordinated project rather than improvements to individual properties. Eligible projects may incorporate building rehabilitation, infrastructure improvements, public spaces, accessibility, beautification, signage, lighting, and other elements designed to strengthen a downtown district. Applications opened September 11 and must be submitted by September 30, 2026. Kansas communities interested in downtown revitalization, including local governments, economic development organizations, chambers, property owners, and community partners, are encouraged to review the program requirements and consider opportunities for collaboration. This new competitive program offers Kansas communities an opportunity to think comprehensively about how an entire downtown block could be transformed to support businesses, residents, visitors, and future economic development.