(MSC News)--Two local organizations are receiving grant funding to help promote their communities and attract more visitors to northeast Kansas.

Lieutenant Governor and Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced that more than 117-thousand dollars has been awarded for 18 new tourism marketing projects across the state.

The Seneca Area Chamber was awarded more than 5-thousand-400 dollars, while the Jackson County Tourism Council received 4-thousand-800 dollars.

The grants are designed to help communities expand marketing efforts, reach new audiences, and encourage more people to visit Kansas.

Toland says tourism generated 8-point-4 billion dollars in visitor spending across Kansas in 2025, supporting local businesses, jobs, and communities.

The 18 grant recipients will also contribute nearly 244-thousand dollars in matching funds toward their approved marketing projects, helping extend the reach of their tourism promotions.

State officials say the projects highlight creative ways communities are working to showcase Kansas and encourage travel throughout the Sunflower State.