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The Innovation Center is encouraging Northwest Kansas counties to apply for the Kansas Housing Cooperative Program, which provides forgivable loans to support new home construction in small communities.

Since its launch in late 2024, 21 families have already benefited, but funding remains for those who haven’t yet participated, including Cloud, Ottawa, and Republic counties.

The program targets communities with 10,000 or fewer residents, offering financial assistance for homeowner-occupied new builds such as single-family homes and duplexes. By partnering with local lenders, state agencies, and community organizations, the initiative aims to ease housing shortages, retain workers, and strengthen rural economies.

Funding is supported by the State of Kansas, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, and local contributions. More information is available through the Innovation Center’s website at nwkeici.org.