For Shelly Crane, real estate is about more than buying and selling property. It’s about helping clients understand the process, connecting them with the community and remaining a trusted resource long after closing.

Abilene was not selected for the $500,000 BLOCK Grant, but the application brought together property owners, businesses, volunteers, contractors and community partners around a shared vision for downtown. Driving Dickinson County and the Abilene CVB reflect on the momentum created and what comes next.

One year into Natalie Muruato’s leadership, Driving Dickinson County is moving from plans to action through business support, housing, entrepreneurship, community engagement and new resources for Dickinson County.

Driving Dickinson County is pursuing a competitive $500,000 BLOCK grant that could transform a downtown Abilene block — while creating momentum for investment beyond it.

The City of Abilene has been awarded an $89,787 USDA Rural Business Development Grant to launch a Rural Business Accelerator Program in partnership with Driving Dickinson County, expanding hands-on support for small and emerging rural businesses.

From Dickinson County to Zurich, Driving Dickinson County CEO Natalie Muruato joined the Kansas Department of Commerce on an international trade mission to strengthen relationships, gain new economic development perspectives and ensure rural Kansas has a seat at the global table.

La Isla Mexican Restaurant is growing in Herington with a new, larger location at 557 US Highway 77. Family-owned by Adan and Lorena Ramirez, the restaurant combines authentic Mexican favorites, colorful handcrafted décor, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.

Sisters Hanna Nagely and Karina Harris turned a shared dream into R&K Boutique, a new Abilene business built around family, faith, and community. With a local storefront and online shop, the sisters are bringing apparel, accessories, children’s items, and a welcoming shopping experience to Dickinson County.

As data centers expand across Kansas, Dickinson County could face important decisions about the opportunities and challenges they bring. Driving Dickinson County examines the economic potential, infrastructure considerations, community impacts, and guardrails that can help ensure future development supports long-term local prosperity.

Chapman, Enterprise, Herington, and Dickinson County were recognized for 2025 Community Development Block Grant awards supporting projects ranging from historic building restoration and park improvements to wastewater infrastructure and downtown revitalization.

Economic development builds the engine, while community development builds the place. In Dickinson County, the two must work together to create vibrant communities where businesses can thrive, residents want to stay, and new opportunities can take root.

Dickinson County is investing $30,000 in local America 250 celebrations through a new community grant program supporting events, public art, historical projects, beautification efforts, and other initiatives across the county.

More than 200 community leaders, business owners and residents gathered for Driving Dickinson County’s sold-out 2026 Annual Gala & Best of the Best Awards. The evening celebrated 76 nominees across 11 categories while recognizing the businesses, individuals and organizations helping move Dickinson County forward.

Driving Dickinson County has unveiled a refreshed visual identity designed to reflect the organization’s momentum and direction. From the road and upward arrow to the people represented within the mark, the new brand symbolizes collaboration, growth and a shared commitment to moving Dickinson County forward.

DKEDC welcomes Jackie Hynes as its new Events and Marketing Director. With a background in strategic marketing, brand development and nonprofit work, Jackie will help strengthen connections, elevate local businesses and share the story of Dickinson County.

Nearly a year after arriving in Dickinson County, Natalie Muruato is turning listening into action. As CEO of Driving Dickinson County, she is building relationships, supporting local businesses and helping position the county for continued growth.