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10 | Page April 4 I ssue%u2022 Live performances or temporary art%u2022 Large undertakings requiring structural modificationsApplicants must work with their local municipality or property owner and be permitted to create art on the proposed structure. Documentation of this permission will be required for the application.For more details, application forms, project examples and resources, click here.Questions about the TAPS Grant can be directed to Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at Sara.Bloom@ks.gov or (785) 506-9278.New Round of Mural Grants Available to Enrich Rural Kansas CommunitiesTOPEKA (4.2.2025) %u2013 The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of a new round of Rural Mural funding to support the creation of projects in rural Kansas communities. The total amount of funding available is $125,000.%u201cPublic art is a powerful tool for rural revitalization and bringing vitality and prosperity to all regions of our state,%u201d Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. %u201cThe KellyToland administration fully supports investments that improve the attractiveness of our smaller communities, engage residents and visitors alike, and help stimulate the local economy.%u201dThe funding initiative from the Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) aims to activate vacant and underused spaces through the arts %u2014 to help bring together community members around their local history and culture.%u201cIn 2024, there were 12 successful mural projects in small communities across Kansas,%u201d Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. %u201cThis new round of funding is going to do more than beautify our towns. It will bring the community together to create something that can be admired and remembered for decades to come.%u201dORP will open this round of Rural Murals for new applicants. Applications will be open through May 16. The maximum grant opportunity is $7,500 and requires a 100% match, with at least 25% in cash and up to 75% in-kind contributions.To qualify for funding, applicants must be from communities with populations of 15,000 residents or less. Murals can beautify community gathering spaces, elevate tourist attractions, and offer a welcoming message for visitors. The proposed projects must be completed by December 31, 2025.The office will host a Rural Mural application webinar at 4:00 pm Monday, April 7, for those interested in applying for funding. Register for the webinar here. For more details and to apply, click here.The Kansas Department of Commerce is dedicated to providing financial support, technical assistance and guidance to help communities develop mural and public art projects. There is an online resource guide (here) to help communities plan and execute their arts-based initiatives that enhance local growth and foster prosperity.