Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City is putting fresh energy behind the events, traditions, and neighborhood gatherings that help shape the city’s identity, awarding more than $2 million through the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund for the FY 2026–2027 funding cycle.
The funding will support 246 events and projects led by nonprofit organizations across Kansas City. Together, the selected programs are expected to showcase the city’s culture, history, arts, food, music, and community life while giving residents and visitors more reasons to explore different parts of the city.
“The Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund is about investing in the people, neighborhoods, and experiences that make Kansas City unique,” said Director Forest Decker.
“These funded events not only draw visitors from across the region and beyond, but they also strengthen community pride and create opportunities for residents, artists, and small organizations to shine.”
Read also: Royals will stay in Kansas City as downtown Baseball District plan moves forward
The grants will help a wide range of organizations bring public events to life. Recipients include the 18th and Vine Arts Festival Foundation, City in Motion Dance Theater, Guadalupe Centers, Heartland Men’s Chorus Kansas City, Ivanhoe Neighborhood Council, Kansas City Ballet Association, Marlborough Community Coalition, and many others. City officials said a full list of funded organizations is available through the city’s announcement.
The NTDF is designed to support nonprofit groups that promote Kansas City as a destination while creating direct impact at the neighborhood or citywide level. Eligible projects can include festivals, concerts, cultural celebrations, sports tournaments, parades, home tours, and similar public events. To qualify, funded activities must take place within Kansas City limits and remain open and accessible to both residents and visitors.
For some recipients, the funding comes at an especially meaningful time. Ivanhoe Neighborhood Council’s Alana Henry said the support will help launch this year’s KC Farmers Market Passport program, which connects people with local farms and markets.
“I am thrilled that the NTDF Committee and the City of Kansas City are showing a continued commitment to supporting the local food system and the KC Farmers Market Passport program, with dedicated funding appropriated for this year’s launch,” Henry said.
“At a time when many Kansas Citians are struggling to make ends meet, local farms and markets continue to step into the gap. We are proud to present the third installment of the KC Farmers Market Passport and look forward to a season-long celebration of local food with fellow Kansas Citians and our World Cup visitors.”
With the new round of awards, Kansas City is backing more than events. It is investing in the neighborhoods, artists, organizers, and local stories that give the city its rhythm.
