Economic Development Corporation of KCMO

05/02/2025

EDCKC was proud to sponsor this year’s Kansas City Industrial Council's Brick-by-Brick reception, an evening dedicated to honoring the individuals and businesses that continue to build a stronger, more sustainable Kansas City.

Each year, KCIC recognizes those making outstanding contributions to the economic vitality of our industrial areas through the Brick-by-Brick Awards, while also celebrating leaders in sustainability across the metro.

We were especially excited to celebrate alongside Quinton Lucas and give a special shoutout to our partners at Foundation for Regeneration who received a well-deserved award for their impactful work.

04/30/2025

At the recent Focused Forum, hosted by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, community leaders, developers, and housing advocates confronted the question: How do we build a city where attainable housing is not an aspiration, but a reality?

Moderated by EDCKC President and CEO, Tracey Lewis, the panel featured insights from Emmet Pierson (Community Builders of Kansas City), Jamee Rodgers (Urban Neighborhood Initiative), and Brennan Crawford (Community Housing of Wyandotte County) on what it really takes to build housing that’s equitable, accessible, and rooted in community.

Read more: https://edckc.com/housing-kc/

04/28/2025

Earlier this month, Kansas City took center stage at the KC SmartPort 2025 Annual Industry Briefing, KC Shifting Gears: Automotive | Industry at a Crossroads—an event that brought together industry leaders to examine the state of the automotive sector and explore the road ahead.

As a proud sponsor of this year’s event, EDCKC was honored to support a powerful conversation on where the industry is headed—and the role Kansas City is playing in shaping that future.

Read more: edckc.com/automotive-future/

04/22/2025

EDCKC was proud to participate in Midtown KC Now’s Quality of Life Series: Community Development Workshop, where we connected directly with local entrepreneurs and shared tools to help their businesses grow and thrive.

Our team highlighted key resources available through EDCKC:
🔹Kyana Bowers – Business Development support and strategic guidance
🔹Robert (Bob) Long – Tax incentive programs for development projects
🔹Regina Sosa Valdovinos – Capital Access resources including Kiva and the DoorDash Accelerator
🔹 Debra Davis – Flexible loan programs through the EDCKC Loan Corporation

Thanks to Midtown KC Now for hosting this vital conversation on building stronger, more resilient small businesses in our community. Let’s keep the momentum going!

04/18/2025

The EDCKC had the opportunity to attend two community meetings with Northland Neighborhood Inc. (NNI) and South KC Alliance.

We joined conversations on topics ranging from public health and safety to capital improvements and incentives—highlighting how these efforts can drive economic development and reinvestment in our neighborhoods.

We’re proud to partner with organizations across the city to build a more vibrant, equitable, and inclusive community. If you’d like to invite EDCKC to your next community meeting, feel free to reach out!

04/18/2025

Business Spotlight: Brain Freeze Daiquiri Shop

With help from the community, including programs from EDCKC and The KC BizCare Office, Brain Freeze Daiquiri, a fully mobile daiquiri and cocktail service, was born.

“The support here is amazing,” owner James Thomas explains. “People in Kansas City look out for each other. If you’re struggling or if you need a referral, folks go out of their way to help.”

Read more:

When James Thomas first experienced the laid-back, flavorful culture of Southern daiquiri shops in places like New Orleans, Texas, and Florida, the idea of bringing that same vibrant energy to ... Read More…

04/16/2025

The EDCKC recently had the opportunity to attend the 5th District Community Meeting at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.

Jenna Scott, Business Development Officer, joined conversations on key issues impacting Kansas City—including exciting Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium updates like the upcoming Flying Flamingo Zip Line Ride and Twelfth Street Heritage Development Corporation’s commitment to creating stable, affordable housing.

We also provided updates on ongoing economic development efforts aimed at creating jobs, supporting businesses, and investing in neighborhoods throughout the district.

04/14/2025

Farewell and Congratulations, Steven Anthony

After years of exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication, our very own Steven Anthony, Vice President of Business Development, is stepping into a new chapter as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Miami Beach.

Steven has played a pivotal role in shaping Kansas City’s economic landscape—leading transformative initiatives, attracting major investments, and helping create thousands of jobs across the region. His impact will be felt for years to come.

“It’s been an honor to pour into a region that both grounds and inspires me,” Steven shared. And we couldn’t be prouder to have been part of his journey.

From all of us at EDCKC: Thank you, Steven, for your leadership, vision, and heart. Miami is lucky to have you.

Read the full announcement: https://edckc.com/steven-anthony-new-role/

04/10/2025

In Kansas City, Missouri, the Plaza Library Project and Hotel Phillips Redevelopment Project have been transformative examples of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in action. Before redevelopment, both sites contributed minimally to the city's tax base. However, through strategic TIF implementation, these projects spurred substantial growth in property values.

As TIF benefits expired in 2023, the city now benefits from enhanced tax revenues supporting public infrastructure and community services, underscoring the lasting fiscal impact of these revitalization efforts.

Read the case study about these two significant projects: https://edckc.com/tif-case-studies/

04/08/2025

Investing in KC Students, Growing Our Economy

Today, Tuesday, April 8, several important bond measures are on the ballot for Kansas City Public Schools, North Kansas City Schools, and Park Hill School District. Effective public education is the bedrock of a thriving workforce especially in a growing business hub like Kansas City.

By investing in modernized schools, career-aligned programs, and the resources our students need, we’re directly fueling Kansas City’s economic growth and community well-being.

Let’s ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed and that our region remains competitive. Make your voice heard—an investment in public education is an investment in Kansas City’s future workforce.

Read our full blog post here: https://edckc.com/public-education-is-crucial/

04/07/2025

A thriving public school system is a cornerstone of both workforce development and a flourishing Kansas City.

To illustrate why the upcoming KCPS General Obligation Bond is so critical, EDCKCis sharing key facts—from the six decades since KCPS last secured bond funding, to the district’s standing as the only one in our region without voter-approved bonds. Even if this measure passes, KCPS would still have one of the lowest debt levies in the area.

A successful bond would spark wider benefits, creating jobs, reducing crime, elevating property values, and supporting economic growth.

To illustrate why the upcoming KCPS General Obligation Bond is so critical, EDCKC is sharing key facts—from the six decades since KCPS last secured bond funding, to the district’s standing as the only one in our region without voter-approved bonds. Even if this measure passes, KCPS would still have one of the lowest debt levies in the area.

Learn more and get involved at: https://www.kcpsbond.org

04/04/2025

Calling All Kansas City Small Business Owners & Entrepreneurs!

Join us for the Mayor’s Small Business Town Hall — an open-to-the-public event focused on shaping the future of KC’s small business ecosystem.

We’ll discuss:
- The upcoming 2026 World Cup and what it means for local businesses
- Key challenges and opportunities within KC’s small business landscape
- Action items for the 2025 KC BizCare Comprehensive Plan

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation. Let’s build the future together.

RSVP at: eventbrite.com/e/kansas-citys-small-business-task-force-town-hall-tickets-1300014832359