By: Ryan Duey

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced that Republic County received $15,000 in the first round of Rural Opportunity Zone Local Marketing Grants.

These funds will help market financial incentives for new residents, including student loan repayment assistance and a 100 percent state income tax credit. Counties contributing annually to the program can receive between $5,000 and $15,000 to enhance their marketing efforts.

The grants will aid counties and local partners in developing tailored marketing strategies. Funds can be used for various initiatives, such as enhancing marketing approaches to highlight relocation opportunities, creating promotional videos, and supporting talent recruitment campaigns at colleges and universities.

Awards are based on the county’s annual sponsorship of the Rural Opportunity Zone.