Grow Clay County Receives Community Catalyst Award and Delivers Proven Economic Impact Across Clay County

Grow Clay County Release

Photo Courtesy of Grow Clay County

Grow Clay County is honored to announce it has been awarded the Community Catalyst Award by Network Kansas, recognizing the organization’s visionary leadership, commitment to inclusive economic opportunity, and sustained momentum in driving rural growth.

This prestigious award highlights the strategic work Grow Clay County has led in recent years to create meaningful, lasting progress. The organization was selected for:

  • Strategic Planning that reflects the needs of Clay County residents
  • Strategic Focus to drive measurable, high-impact outcomes
  • Launch of a Countywide Mobile App that enhances communication and civic engagement
  • Leadership with Grit and Determination through challenges and change
  • Promoting a Growth Mindset across all community initiatives
  • Fostering an Empowered Team Dynamic that drives continued momentum

“This recognition is not just about our organization—it’s about the collective commitment of our community, our board, committees, and our partners who believe in building a better future for Clay County,” said Natalie Muruato, Executive Director of Grow Clay County.

Grow Clay County’s work is not just visionary, its results driven. Independent economic impact analyses by the Kansas Department of Commerce confirm that the organization delivers substantial returns for both taxpayers and the broader local economy.

The analysis specifically measured county dollars invested through the economic development mill levy and city contributions, which partially fund Grow Clay County and its direct economic development programs. It then factored in only:

  • Outside grant dollars secured for the county
  • Gap financing provided to support business growth

No events, tourism initiatives, or other community programs were included in the ROI calculation, only core economic development efforts.

The results were compelling:

  • The City of Clay Center saw a 182% return on investment, gaining $2.82 in new tax revenue for every $1 invested.
  • Clay County saw a 103% return, receiving $2.03 in tax revenue per $1 invested.
  • When looking at total economic activity, including wages, spending, and private investment, the countywide impact reached 758.5%, equating to $7.59 generated per $1 invested.

Grow Clay County is one of the very few local organizations that receive tax dollars and consistently returns more to public budgets, proving itself not only as a cost-effective investment, but as a true economic engine for the county.

“Our work is rooted in service, to businesses, to families, and to the future of this county,” said Muruato. “We’re not just talking about growth—we’re making it happen.” In the last three years alone, Grow Clay County has:

  • Secured and managed $12+ million in grants/matching, supporting transformative projects like the Multi-Generational Life Center, housing development and infrastructure, and downtown revitalization.
  • Assisted 64 potential startups resulting in 21new businesses, and aided 34 existing businesses/organizations, contributing to a stronger, more diverse local economy.
  • Provided $487,000 in business gap financing, leveraging $790,000 in bank investments to help businesses grow and thrive.
  • Distributed $205,000 in homebuyer down payment assistance through the MIH and NCRPC programs, helping families achieve homeownership.
  • Created a county-wide community brand, “Embrace Our Space,” raising regional and state recognition.
  • Launched a tourism website, mural map, and regional marketing campaigns, significantly increasing Clay County’s visibility as an arts and cultural destination.
  • Assisted more than 2,500 individuals with health and social service navigation spanning several counties.
  • Hosted or participated in over 100 community and networking events, strengthening collaboration and civic pride.
  • Grow Clay County staff participated in 42 speaking engagements and presentations, sharing insights on economic development, rural innovation, community growth, and showcasing our amazing county.

With momentum on its side and a community united around shared goals, Grow Clay County continues to pursue bold strategies to ensure a thriving future. For more information about Grow Clay County, visit www.growclaycounty.org or contact Natalie Muruato, Executive Director, at 785-632-5674 or director@growclaycounty.org.

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