TOPEKA (KSNT) - The state of Kansas is launching a development grant to Kansas technical and community colleges to build and renovate residential homes. The Kansas Department of Commerce (KDC) announced the launch of the Fostering Residential Advancement through Mentoring and Education (FRAME) grant project on Monday, Nov. 25. The program will provide $2 million in total with awards ranging from $250,000 to $1 million per college. The application window opens on Dec. 1, 2024 and closes on Feb. 14, 2025. Recipients will be notified in March 2025. “We believe the FRAME grant program has the ability to transform communities across the state,” said Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez. “Not only will we see added housing, but we are creating a pipeline of skilled workers who are essential to the future of our economy.” Fight Night takes over West Ridge Mall The program came after a KDC study found a critical shortage of housing and skilled laborers. "Existing contractors are stretched thin, and there is an urgent need to recruit and train a new workforce to ensure Kansas communities can build, grow and thrive," the KDC wrote in a press release. To learn more about FRAME, click here. The KDC will be holding an informational webinar at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3. You can register for the webinar by clicking here. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.