Greater Manhattan Economic Partnership

The Nichols family first came to Manhattan through Tony’s Army career.

They did not expect it to become their long-term home, but after raising their family here, building community downtown, and experiencing the support of friends and neighbors during a difficult house fire, Manhattan became the place they chose to stay.

Today, Tony and Janet remain active in the community, support local businesses, and continue to show what makes Manhattan different.

People do not just pass through here. They find reasons to stay, build, and belong.

Read the full Made for Manhattan story: https://madeformanhattan.org/manhattanite_stories/tony-janet-nichols/

Fort Riley and Kansas State University are two of Greater Manhattan’s most important anchors.

Their renewed partnership reinforces a regional advantage that matters for workforce, education, research, and quality of life.

Since 2008, Fort Riley and K-State have worked together to support soldiers, families, students, veterans, and military-connected spouses through education pathways, employment connections, research collaboration, and community support.

For the Flint Hills region, that work strengthens more than one institution. It helps build career pathways, retain talent, support military families, and deepen the region’s long-term resilience.

Read the full article to learn more:
https://littleapplepost.com/posts/ebc31c62-787f-48da-a22f-7c4a83b5a450

Making it easier to get things done is part of building a stronger local economy.

The City of Manhattan has selected new software to modernize local permitting, licensing, planning, inspections, and code enforcement through a new online portal.

Once launched, the system is expected to help residents, contractors, developers, and businesses submit applications, track updates, and move through approvals more efficiently.

Clearer processes and better communication can reduce friction for projects, business openings, and future community growth.

Learn more:
https://www.oracle.com/news/announcement/city-of-manhattan-kansas-selects-oracle-permitting-and-licensing-to-streamline-regulatory-services-and-improve-citizen-experiences-2025-12-17/