The Kansas Department of Commerce has announced a new round of Strategic Economic Expansion and Development, or SEED, grants designed specifically to support quality-of-life improvements in smaller Kansas communities. A total of $250,000 is available for projects in communities with populations of 5,000 or fewer. SEED funding is intended to help rural communities make investments that support economic development and improve the quality of life for residents. Eligible organizations and community partners are encouraged to review the current grant guidelines, eligible project categories, application requirements, and deadlines through the Kansas Department of Commerce. For communities such as those throughout Morton County, programs specifically designed for populations under 5,000 can provide valuable opportunities to pursue projects that might otherwise be difficult to fund locally. Community organizations, local leaders, nonprofits, and others involved in rural development are encouraged to review the program and determine whether an upcoming local project may qualify.