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.

From its roots in Woodbine to serving customers across Central Kansas, KVK celebrates 30 years of growth, teamwork and trusted service. Meet the people behind the business and the relationships that keep it moving forward.

After 22 years capturing life’s milestones, Michela Brown Photography has opened its first dedicated studio in downtown Abilene. Discover her story and join the celebration October 1, with an open house from 5–7 p.m. and a ribbon cutting at 6 p.m.

Patterson Healthcare Pharmacy is back home in downtown Abilene after an eight-month displacement following a fire — just in time to celebrate 25 years in business. The pharmacy retained all eight employees throughout the disruption and continues serving patients across Dickinson County and the surrounding area.

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.

A $10,000 Network Kansas grant will help launch Young Roots Market, giving Dickinson County youth access to shared market equipment, hands-on learning and business education.

Dickinson County’s new Network Kansas eCommunity designation is opening the door to more than financing. Through local decision-making, statewide resources and new entrepreneurship programs, the county is beginning to turn designation into action.

Four businesses, four different stories — and the same idea running underneath every one of them. Go inside the displays, the people, and the community spirit behind Dickinson County's first-ever Stars, Stripes & Storefront Showdown.

A Station's Kids Farmers Market is about more than selling handmade goods and fresh produce—it's about empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Discover how one local business is helping Dickinson County youth build confidence, creativity and business experience.

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.

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.

DKEDC announces the 2025 Annual Awards Gala, celebrating the businesses, entrepreneurs, employees and community leaders who helped Dickinson County thrive. Nominations open December 1, with the awards ceremony set for February 21, 2026.

Discover how Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation supports businesses, entrepreneurs and communities through economic development resources, workforce assistance, strategic growth and business support across Dickinson County, Kansas.