The Kansas Bioscience Authority on Friday announced it will spend approximately $52 million in the next fiscal year to expand research and help startup businesses.

The funds are part of $580 million set aside under the 2004 Kansas Economic Growth Act designed to spur bioscience development.

“We’re capturing the bold spirit of this legislation by saying Kansas is going to be at the center of tackling national and international challenges through bioscience advancements,” said KBA Chairwoman Sandra Lawrence.

Among the major investments planned by the KBA are:

¢ $15 million to Kansas Bioscience Centers of Innovation, which will provide access to the needed technology and talent to develop new products.

¢ $6.75 million to recruit eminent scholars and researchers.

¢ $5 million to stimulate cancer research and treatment.

¢ $4 million to leverage private venture capital to start new bioscience companies.