Category Archives: KCADC

KC Attracts Largest Office Project Recruitment in Region’s History with New Fiserv Strategic Fintech Hub

Congratulations to our partners in Overland Park, Kansas, on Fiserv’s selection of the Aspiria Campus for its new strategic fintech hub.

The largest office project recruitment in Kansas City history, the Fortune 500 company’s planned $175 million capital investment is projected to create 2,000 jobs in its initial phase. 

Read the News Release

The Kansas City Area Development Council was proud to partner with the following organizations in attracting Fiserv to the KC region:

State of Kansas

Kansas Department of Commerce

City of Overland Park, Kansas

Overland Park Chamber of Commerce

Johnson County, Kansas Government

KC Tech Council

Kansas Board of Regents

Great Jobs KC

University of Kansas

Johnson County Community College

JLL

Occidental Management

50strong

Actalent Services and Aston Carter

Allied OneSource

Black & Veatch

CBIZ

Dimensional Innovations

EnterpriseKC

Evergy

EY

Group O’Dell

H&R Block

Hallmark Cards, Inc.

Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce

Heartland Multiple Listing Service, Inc.

Hiring Our Heroes

Kansas City Aviation Department

Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS

Kansas City Royals

KC2026 

KC Current

Lockton Companies

Metropolitan Community College

Morgan Hunter Companies

Netsmart

Panasonic Energy

Park University

Parris Communications

Rockhurst University

SkillBridge

Sporting Kansas City

Storia Strategies

Sunflower Talent Strategies

T-Mobile

TeamKC

TreviPay

University of Central Missouri

University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kansas City Region Secures Fintech Powerhouse in Record-Breaking Office Project Attraction of Fiserv

The Fortune 500 company’s new strategic hub brings 2,000 jobs, long-term investment and industry innovation to Overland Park’s Aspiria campus

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – April 21, 2025 – Fiserv, Inc. (NYSE: FI), a global leader in payments and financial services technology, has announced plans to establish a new strategic fintech hub in Overland Park, Kansas, bringing 2,000 new jobs and a projected $6.5 billion economic impact over the next decade.

The company will invest $175 million to renovate two buildings on the Aspiria campus at 6500 and 6550 Sprint Parkway. Spanning 427,000 square feet, the new strategic hub is the largest office project ever recruited from outside the market and marks a major milestone in the Kansas City region’s rise as a national tech and fintech leader.

“We are thrilled to expand our U.S. footprint, bringing our people together to drive innovation on behalf of our clients,” said Frank Bisignano, chairman and chief executive officer of Fiserv. “The greater Kansas City Metro area offers a dynamic environment with a growing population of tech talent, making it the ideal location for Fiserv’s next strategic fintech hub. Working with local and state leaders, we are committed to driving growth and prosperity for both Fiserv and Kansas while contributing to the vibrancy of the Overland Park community.”

“Fiserv’s new strategic hub in Overland Park is a significant step forward as we continue to elevate Kansas to new heights,” said Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. “Fiserv will create high-value career options including opportunities for military personnel transitioning to civilian life and graduates of our higher education system.”

Fiserv’s decision to grow in the Kansas City region underscores the metro’s strength in financial services and technology, as well as its ability to attract and retain high-caliber talent. The company plans to offer an average salary of $102,000 at the new hub and anticipates up to $4 billion in payroll investment over the next 10 years.

The new office will join a growing list of innovation centers across the country for Fiserv, including locations in Alpharetta, Milwaukee, Omaha, Berkeley Heights and New York City. The Kansas City region was selected based on its central location, high quality of life and concentration of financial and tech talent — all key to Fiserv’s hub strategy focused on collaboration and innovation.

“Overland Park is already a strong hub for business and technology leadership, and Fiserv is a natural fit in our community,” said Overland Park Mayor Skoog. “The thousands of jobs Fiserv brings, along with the potential to serve neighboring businesses within our thriving community, is a significant win. I look forward to welcoming Fiserv leadership and their employees to our city.”

“This historic investment is another example of a major company choosing to invest here and solidifies Johnson County as the economic engine of the metro region and the State of Kansas,” said Mike Kelly, Chairman of the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners.

The new strategic hub will also serve as a career engine for the local community, offering high-value opportunities to graduates of regional higher education institutions and to veterans transitioning to civilian careers.

“Fiserv’s investment is monumental — and so is the Kansas City region’s ability to deliver,” said Tim Cowden, president and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “With a fast-growing tech sector, a deep pipeline of financial services talent and a business community that works as one, Kansas City has the capacity and competitiveness to meet this moment. There’s no better proof that Kansas City is winning than a global fintech leader choosing KC over markets like Nashville, Dallas and Atlanta. Our market is arriving, and the rest of the country is taking notice.”

“Fiserv’s significant investment and job creation reflect the strength of our community, the vibrancy of our local economy and confidence in our community’s future,” said Tracey Osborne Oltjen, president & CEO of the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce. “The high-paying jobs and innovation this project brings will amplify our strong fintech sector and have a lasting, positive impact throughout the region. We’re proud to have partnered with Overland Park city leaders, the Kansas Department of Commerce and KCADC to make this project possible.”

Fiserv is expected to pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification at the Overland Park facility, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainability. Amenities at the Aspiria campus will support employee well-being, including fitness, dining and collaborative spaces — all aimed at attracting the region’s top tech talent.

“Fiserv selecting the Aspiria campus for a strategic employment hub further adds to the already thriving technology ecosystem in the Kansas City region,” said Chad Stafford, president of Occidental Management. “We are pleased to have played a part in bringing Fiserv’s long-term commitment to the community, where we believe we have a top-notch experiential environment to help attract the very best professional talent in the Midwest.”

About Fiserv

Fiserv, Inc. (NYSE: FI), a Fortune 500 company, aspires to move money and information in a way that moves the world. As a global leader in payments and financial technology, the company helps clients achieve best-in-class results through a commitment to innovation and excellence in areas including account processing and digital banking solutions; card issuer processing and network services; payments; e-commerce; merchant acquiring and processing; and the Clover® cloud-based point-of-sale and business management platform. Fiserv is a member of the S&P 500® Index and one of Fortune® World’s Most Admired Companies™. Visit fiserv.com and follow on social media for more information and the latest company news.

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Global Design and KC Heartland. | onekc.com

7 Tips to Master Confidential Project Management

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of successful project management in economic development, where sensitive negotiations, competitive positioning and stakeholder trust are paramount. Managing confidential projects effectively ensures smooth execution, preventing premature disclosures and safeguarding long-term success.

In the Kansas City region, KCADC and its partners collaborate to uphold strict confidentiality. Protecting sensitive details strengthens stakeholder relationships and positions Kansas City as a premier destination for business growth.

Bottom line – confidentiality can make or break a project. Use these strategies to stay ahead:

1. Build a Culture of Trust

Confidential projects require a reliable team that understands the importance of discretion.

  • Communicate consistently with your internal team and partners on the importance of upholding confidentiality agreements, ensuring a unified approach to sensitive discussions.
  • Specify confidentiality protocols in your organization’s policies.
  • Host regular training for employees on compliance.

2. Set Expectations Early with NDAs

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are critical for setting expectations among all stakeholders.

  • Define what information is confidential, how it will be accessed and with whom it can be shared.
  • Establish clear terms on information handling post-project completion.
  • Reduce unnecessary NDAs — broad agreements with a single authorized signer streamlines the process.

3. Understand Public Records Laws

Failure to manage public records laws correctly can compromise confidentiality.

  • The Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) & Missouri Sunshine Law govern transparency at the state level. 
  • The Federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) applies at the federal level.
  • Generally, if a public entity retains information, it is presumed to be open unless an exemption applies.
    • Kansas has 55 exemptions, while Missouri has 26.
  • Use careful discretion when sending confidential or sensitive information to recipients or from email domains subject to KORA or Missouri Sunshine Law. 

4. Maintain Confidentiality Throughout the Project Lifecycle

To protect the integrity of a project, it’s essential to keep sensitive details confidential until the right moment.

  • Keep in mind that confidentiality agreements extend beyond an individual’s tenure in office.
  • Keep discussions on a “need-to-know” basis to minimize risks.
  • Consistently use assigned project code names and avoid revealing company information in written or verbal communications. 
  • Advise visiting clients to refrain from wearing branded clothing or using branded supplies.
  • Engage with the client to understand their confidentiality plans for the public submittal documents phase of the project, as applicant information and email domains are common sources of breaches.

5. Leverage Confidentiality for Competitive Advantage

Well-managed confidentiality can be a differentiator in winning projects.

  • Securely handle real estate site selection and incentive negotiations to protect sensitive information.
  • Protecting project confidentiality can prevent market speculation that drives up development expenses.

6. Prepare for Public Scrutiny and Activism

Effective stakeholder engagement and strategic messaging can help mitigate opposition while keeping the project on track.

  • Large projects, such as data centers and manufacturing facilities, often attract public scrutiny.
  • Proactively educate the community on the benefits of a project of desired size and scope, from job creation to economic impact.
    • Transparency about positive outcomes can counteract NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) opposition.
  • Limiting access to confidential information helps control messaging and reduce leaks.

7. Audit and Improve Confidentiality Processes

  • Regularly review and refine confidentiality policies.
  • Ensure all stakeholders understand legal requirements and align on confidentiality expectations.
  • Leverage insights from past projects to improve future confidentiality management.

Mastering confidential project management is a win-win for stakeholders and community partners alike. By building trust, setting clear expectations, understanding legal frameworks and proactively managing information, economic development professionals can successfully navigate complex projects while maintaining integrity and confidentiality.

Ready to take your projects to the next level? The KCADC team and our partners specialize in guiding projects with discretion and expertise. Connect with us to learn more.

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult your legal counsel for guidance specific to your situation.

Cutting-Edge Animal Health Tech Company Ceres Tag Selects KC Region for North American Headquarters

The Australian animal health intelligence company revolutionizes animal performance welfare and location monitoring with direct-to-satellite technology

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – Ceres Tag, an Australian leader in direct-to-satellite animal monitoring technology, announced today the establishment of its North American headquarters at the Aspiria Campus in Overland Park, Kansas. The move further strengthens the Kansas City region as a hub for animal health technology and innovation.

Ceres Tag’s groundbreaking technology involves durable, solar-charged smart monitoring sensors that can be attached to wildlife or livestock. The company offers insights previously unavailable to farmers, ranchers and wildlife managers to improve productivity, profits and conservation. By delivering plug-and-play solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing software systems, Ceres Tag empowers a variety of end-users with a scalable and less-intrusive approach to animal monitoring, boosting productivity and profitability.

“The Kansas City region was the clear choice for our North American headquarters,” said David Smith, founder and CEO of Ceres Tag. “This region offers the perfect environment to grow our presence and deliver our groundbreaking technology — poised to transform animal health science for businesses across North America.”

Ceres Tag’s new office will initially support four to six employees, with additional sales representatives positioned strategically across the United States. The company’s arrival is expected to pave the way for more technological innovators established in Australia to land in the KC market.

Supporting a New Generation of Animal Health Professionals

Young animal health professionals, digital natives with a heightened focus on animal welfare, represent a key demographic for Ceres Tag’s technology. By improving market access and providing unprecedented insights into animal health and performance, Ceres Tag equips ranchers, farmers and more with the tools they need to adapt to evolving industry demands and ensure optimized solutions for their own businesses and customers.

A Strategic Addition to the KC Animal Health Corridor

Located in the heart of the Animal Health Corridor – the largest hub of animal health industry assets in the world – the KC region offers an unparalleled concentration of animal health innovation and a thriving network of more than 300 established companies.

“Ceres Tag’s investment in our region reinforces our global reputation as a leader in animal health innovation,” said Kimberly Young, president of the KC Animal Health Corridor, an affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “Representing 56 percent of total worldwide animal health, diagnostics and pet food sales, the Animal Health Corridor is home to some of the most cutting-edge technology in our industry, and we’re thrilled to welcome Ceres Tag to our robust network.”

Collaboration Opportunities

With the establishment of its North American headquarters, Ceres Tag is actively seeking partnerships with businesses across the animal health sector to enhance insights and improve customer outcomes. Interested organizations can learn more by visiting cerestag.com.

About Ceres Tag

Ceres Tag is a pioneering Australian company specializing in direct-to-satellite animal monitoring technology. The company’s innovative solutions provide real-time tracking and data analytics for livestock and wildlife, enhancing productivity, profitability and sustainability in the agriculture and conservation sectors. | cerestag.com

About the KC Animal Health Corridor

Representing more than half of the global animal health industry’s sales and home to over 300 animal health companies, the KC Animal Health Corridor is the largest concentration of its kind worldwide. Anchored by Manhattan, Kansas, and Columbia, Missouri, the Corridor serves as a thriving hub for innovation and collaboration. | kcanimalhealth.com

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Heartland and KC Global Design. | onekc.org

OpenStore Lands in Kansas City, Missouri, with First E-Commerce Fulfillment Center

The new $5 million facility will optimize operations for the Shopify-brand aggregator

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – December 10, 2024 – OpenStore, an innovative e-commerce platform transforming how businesses scale and operate, has announced its first-ever fulfillment center in Kansas City, Missouri, to open in March 2025.

The 113,000-square-foot facility, located at Executive Park Logistics Center, represents a $5 million capital investment and positions OpenStore to provide faster and more efficient service to its growing portfolio of e-commerce brands. The investment is expected to bring 46 new jobs and $2 million in payroll to the Kansas City region in the next five years.

“No matter the industry, Missouri delivers what innovative businesses like OpenStore need to invest, grow, and thrive,” said Governor Mike Parson. “It’s always exciting to see cutting-edge companies choosing the Show-Me State due to our strategic location, superior infrastructure and talented workforce. We welcome OpenStore to Kansas City and look forward to its contributions to the area’s growing distribution sector.”

OpenStore is the largest operator of businesses on Shopify, with more than 100,000 SKUs and a customer base exceeding 2 million. The e-commerce company is committed to scaling its portfolio through investments in technology and innovation, improving customer support with its AI-powered tool, OpenDesk, and optimizing logistics with its new fulfillment center.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our first fulfillment center in Kansas City, Missouri — a major milestone that underscores OpenStore’s incredible growth and our commitment to delivering world-class service to our customers,” said David Reifschneider, head of supply chain at OpenStore. “This expansion not only enhances our operational capabilities but also positions us to better serve our customers while implementing technology-driven fulfillment solutions. The future is bright and we’re excited to embark on this next chapter of growth and opportunity with the significant talent resources in the Kansas City region.”

A top destination for e-commerce and distribution companies, Kansas City has attracted $2.2 billion in investments and 6,000 jobs to the industry over the last five years.

“I am proud OpenStore chose Kansas City to plant its roots for its first-ever fulfillment center. With OpenStore’s innovative e-commerce technology and our world-class distribution capabilities, talented workforce, and ideal location, I look forward to an exciting chapter in growing our digital economy in Kansas City,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. 

“We’re a city of innovators and we’re proud to welcome an innovative company like OpenStore to Kansas City. We look forward to the continued growth and success of their operations here,” said Steven Anthony, Vice President of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City. 

As a North American industrial hub, Kansas City’s central location and robust transportation infrastructure enable distributors to reach 90% of the contiguous U.S. in two days or less by truck. Companies also enjoy access to a strong talent pipeline of 190,000+ logistics and manufacturing employees.

“Kansas City continues to be a key player in industrial growth and innovation, attracting 70 million square feet of development in the past decade,” said Josie Calkins, director at KC SmartPort, a strategic affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “The region’s unmatched location and logistics advantages are highly attractive to technologically innovative companies like OpenStore looking to optimize their operations and expand their reach.”

Career opportunities for the Kansas City facility are now available at OpenStore’s job openings page, with additional opportunities coming in 2025.

About OpenStore

OpenStore is the largest operator of businesses on Shopify. With over 100,000 SKUs and a customer base exceeding 2 million, OpenStore invests in innovation and technology to drive sustainable growth and long-term success across its diverse portfolio. For more information, visit open.store.

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Global Design and KC Heartland. | onekc.com

2024 KCADC Annual Meeting Highlights $1.8B of New Investment Across the Region and Celebrates Market’s Industry Strengths

The sold-out event united more than 2,000 civic and business leaders that support Kansas City’s regional growth and rising global influence

KANSAS CITY – Nov. 14, 2024 – Today, the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC) hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting, the KC region’s largest yearly business gathering, convening leaders from across the 18-county, two-state area. The event, themed “FLEX,” celebrated a landmark year of growth and reinforced the power of flexibility and adaptability as drivers of regional success. 

To date in 2024, KCADC and its partners attracted 16 companies to the region, driving $1.8 billion in capital investment, 1,498 new jobs, $104.7 million in wages and 2.3 million square feet of new space. This year also marked a new milestone in KCADC’s media coverage, with 630+ stories of Kansas City’s project wins, industry strengths and lifestyle amenities reaching an audience of more than 1.25 billion – 1 in 8 people worldwide.

Celebrating the year’s many significant project successes, Ora Reynolds, KCADC senior co-chair and president & CEO of Hunt Midwest, noted that the region’s monumental successes and bold moves are the foundation for KC’s long-term growth.

“When our partners flex their strengths, from community-building to attracting world-class investments, Kansas City becomes a stronger, more resilient region,” Reynolds said. “Eyes all over the world are on Kansas City thanks to our tremendous success, from billions of dollars in investment and industry growth to national sports recognition and global affinity for the KC story. Today, we celebrate our monumental wins while challenging ourselves as an entire region to push for more.”

A major 2024 investment included Google, which announced its $1 billion data center in Kansas City, Missouri, in March. In addition to this transformative facility, Google pledged to bring 400 megawatts of new carbon-free energy to the local grid and contribute $100,000 to the North Kansas City School District’s STEAM center, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable growth and educational innovation in the community.

At the KCADC Annual Meeting, global head of economic and community development for Google data centers, Utaukwa Allen, announced the company’s expanded commitment to Kansas City through a new, $120,000 partnership with Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS). The investment is slated to strengthen KCPS’ STEM curriculum, equipping students with the skills needed for impactful careers and a future driven by digital innovation.

“From data centers to investment in STEM education, Google’s commitment transcends infrastructure; our partnerships in Kansas City are vital engines of economic growth and resilience for the region and beyond,” said Allen. “Today, we build on our commitment to nurturing a sustainable, inclusive and economically vibrant environment in Kansas City, ensuring its future workforce is ready to lead in the era of AI.”

Best-selling author and CEO of FutureThink, Lisa Bodell, keynoted the event, sharing her expertise on how simplification boosts success on both an individual and organization level. She shared practical tools to empower attendees on how to maximize efficiencies and focus on the core of meaningful work.

Reflecting on a year marked by significant achievements, Tim Cowden, president & CEO of KCADC, encouraged attendees to embrace a flexible, forward-looking approach to sustain and build upon Kansas City’s momentum.

“Kansas City’s momentum is no accident — it’s the result of our entire region aligning around a shared vision for innovation, resilience and growth,” said Cowden. “By embracing flexibility and the power of collaboration, we’re building a future where Kansas City isn’t just keeping up — it’s leading on a global stage.”

Consistently ranked as a top regional economic development group, KCADC serves as an essential resource for locating businesses and talent to the region. The organization recently received two gold medals at the International Economic Development Council’s Excellence Awards for its annual publication, KC Options Magazine, and “KC Design Draft” campaign.

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Global Design and KC Heartland. | onekc.com

Top Takeaways | Digital Health in KC

The recent E.D. Alliance event provided insight to Kansas City’s economic developers on the region’s position as a digital health hub. Industry experts underscored KC’s strong talent pool, cost-effective operations and established ecosystem of digital health companies as driving factors of the region’s success in this rapidly evolving sector.

Panelists

The KC Network of Innovation

Digital health in Kansas City spans more than just digital medical records; it includes everything from wearable tech to advanced health care equipment.

The region is home to more than 120 digital health companies, a blend of industry giants – WellSky, Netsmart, and Garmin, to name a few – alongside a vibrant mix of startups and midsize firms.

As program manager of KC Digital Drive, a nonprofit aimed at making KC a leading digital hub, Jim Starcev highlighted that the organization is actively supporting approximately 15 emerging startups, many founded by seasoned professionals with deep roots in KC’s digital health legacy. This rich ecosystem fosters abundant opportunities for collaboration and innovation. 

KC’s Workforce Advantage

Dick Flanigan, CEO of Digital Health KC, said it best: “Workforce is our superpower.”

With a 40+ year legacy beginning with Cerner, the region is home to a high concentration of tech professionals, creating a unique “talent ladder” that attracts digital health companies. More than 25,000 employees work at KC digital health companies – that’s 1 in 3 tech workers – 6,000+ of whom have more than a decade of experience. 

Dominique Gross, CEO of digital health company Hart, Inc., referenced workforce as a major factor in the company’s decision to relocate its headquarters from California to Kansas City in Jan. 2024. She emphasized that many of the professionals working in the region, despite having global work opportunities, are passionate about contributing to KC-based companies and advancing the local digital health sector.

The challenge is maintaining this workforce advantage amidst a gap in regional tech recruitment. Kara Lowe, CEO of the KC Tech Council, noted that “we cannot recruit ourselves out of the talent gap,” and that the future growth of KC’s tech sector will require a balanced approach in attracting, developing and retaining talent.

Regional communities have a unique opportunity to connect with digital health companies aiming to expand in Kansas City. By reaching out proactively, local economic developers can engage in meaningful conversations about these companies’ workforce and infrastructure needs. This collaborative approach not only anticipates future requirements but also creates a supportive environment to help digital health companies succeed and grow within the KC region. Get started with Digital Health KC’s directory of local digital health companies.

Infrastructure for Growth

Kansas City’s adaptability and central location make it appealing to digital health companies, benefitting from flexible office spaces and lower operating costs than other cities around the U.S. These factors are significant draws for digital health companies, particularly those with non-traditional tech office needs (ex. wet labs, manufacturing space). 

KC’s established hub of companies also continues to attract new digital health business. For example, KC-founded Garmin is a leader in the production of health tech devices –  digital health companies exclusively using these devices are choosing KC for their operations for close proximity to their supplier.

Kansas City’s distribution strengths offer a strategic advantage for digital health companies, particularly those performing kitting, assembly and shipping services. With quick access to 90% of the U.S. population, KC is an ideal logistics hub for digital health companies.

The Future of Digital Health

Panelists noted that the KC region thrives when companies work together to make the market a hub for digital health. This collaborative nature – true to the KC spirit – fosters a pipeline of talent and continued business innovation.

Kansas City’s potential in digital health is immense, and with a robust strategy, will continue to sustain and enhance its workforce, attract early-stage investors and grow programs for diverse digital health needs. As Kansas City strengthens its pull through collaboration, infrastructure and workforce development, the region’s digital health landscape is poised for continued growth and innovation.

Learn more about Kansas City’s strengths as a digital health hub and how you can engage.

RB SRL Announces Entrance to North American Market with $16 Million Manufacturing Facility in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – October 17, 2024 – RB SRL, a modern precision parts manufacturer headquartered in Italy, announced the opening of RB America Corp. with its new 100,000-square-foot facility in Kansas City, Missouri.

As the first North American facility for the company, RB America Corp. is a $16 million investment set to bring 163 new jobs to the region, further strengthening the region’s position as a hub for innovation and growth in the advanced manufacturing sector.

“We’re proud that another world-class manufacturer like RB SRL has recognized Missouri as an ideal business location,” said Missouri Governor Mike Parson. “When we met earlier this year in Italy, RB SRL made it clear that they are committed to growth and innovation. We look forward to this cutting-edge employer’s contributions to our vibrant manufacturing sector as it establishes a presence in Kansas City.”

“State-of-the-art technology and multiple production lines will set the new benchmark for the production of ammunition boxes, with enough capacity to meet the current demand for military boxes in the U.S. market,” said Renato Ballabio, president of RB America Corp. “The U.S. plant, of which we are very proud, incorporates all the best technologies we have developed over the years, as well as the knowledge gained from more than 30 years of experience in ammunition box production through our Italian company.”

With state-of-the-art technology specializing in the manufacture of ammunition boxes, RB America Corp. is poised to provide high-quality solutions to its U.S. customers.

“We’ve seen lots of momentum in the advanced manufacturing sector in Kansas City and are pleased to welcome RB America Corp.,” said Steven Anthony, vice president of business development for the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri. “As an international company, they had many choices on where to locate, so their decision to come here highlights the strategic economic advantages our city offers.”

Production testing for the new facility will begin in November 2024 and is expected to be fully operational by early 2025. Leading commercial real estate advisory firm Newmark Zimmer led the search for this project.

“We are proud to welcome RB America Corp. to Missouri as they establish their first North American location in Kansas City,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “I had the pleasure of meeting their leadership team during a trade mission to Italy, and I’m excited to see their vision come to life here in Missouri. Our state is a strategic choice for foreign companies, and this investment is a testament to Missouri’s appeal as a top destination for international business.”

“It’s exciting to welcome RB America Corp. to Missouri as one of the newest members of our state’s incredibly strong, and ever-growing manufacturing industry,” said Michelle Hataway, director of the Department of Economic Development. “When successful companies like RB America Corp. choose to grow their business and invest in our state, they are putting our mission of helping Missourians prosper into motion.”

The Kansas City region is a leading North American industrial hub, with 70 million square feet of industrial development delivered in the last ten years and an unmatched central location that gives companies the advantage of providing two-day shipping to 90% of the contiguous U.S. and access to 190,000+ manufacturing and logistics employees.

“As both a top 15 U.S. industrial market and top 15 U.S. city for foreign business, Kansas City is uniquely positioned to support the growth and success of advanced manufacturers in the competitive North American market,” said Chris Gutierrez, president of KC SmartPort, a strategic affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “RB America Corp.’s decision to establish their first U.S. facility in Kansas City is a testament to our region as a highly-attractive location for companies looking to take their manufacturing operations to the next level.”

About RB SRL

Incorporated in December 2018 as a result of a merger between various Italian companies, each owned by the same Italian entrepreneur and in business for more than 40 years, RB SRL serves customers from more than 50 countries and produces a very broad range of components for hunting and shooting ammunition, and ammunition containers for the military/defense market. RB SRL encompasses four production plants in Italy and one in the United States. www.rb-itg.com

About EDCKC

The Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri, is a 501c4 agency that works to retain and grow its resident businesses, attract high opportunity companies, and attract and retain a skilled and diverse workforce. The goal of EDCKC is to foster continued and sustainable growth that benefits a vibrant and diverse community. To learn more, visit edckc.com.

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Global Design and KC Heartland. | onekc.com

Greater Kansas City Foreign Trade Zone Ranks Top 25 in U.S.

U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Board Releases its 85th Annual Report to Congress

September 12, 2024 – The U.S. Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Board recently released its 2023 Annual Report to Congress, and the Greater Kansas City Foreign Trade Zone (GKCFTZ) ranked in the top 25 of the 200 active U.S. Foreign Trade Zones in multiple categories.

Twelve companies operate in the GKCFTZ, which includes Zone 15 in western Missouri and Zone 17 in eastern Kansas, and is one of the largest zones in the country, with more than 450 million square feet of approved foreign trade zone space. In 2023, these GKCFTZ companies:

  • Provided the most FTZ activity in both Missouri and Kansas.
  • Received nearly $2 billion worth of foreign and domestic goods.
  • Exported $618 million of goods from the zone.
  • Employed 2,500 people in the Kansas City region.
  • Created $3 billion in value-added activity.

“The GKCFTZ continues to see interest from manufacturing and distribution companies currently operating in the Kansas City region as well as those looking to set up new operations,” said Chris Gutierrez, president of GKCFTZ and KC SmartPort. “Panasonic Energy is our newest operator that will add a significant amount of jobs and activity to the Kansas City FTZ.”

FTZs are secured, designated locations around the United States in or near a U.S. Customs Port of Entry where foreign and domestic merchandise is generally considered to be in international commerce and outside of U.S. Customs territory. As a result, activated businesses in an FTZ can defer, reduce or eliminate duty on imports and take advantage of other benefits to encourage foreign commerce within the United States.

Kansas City’s central location and existing multi-modal transportation structure supports the GKCFTZ, providing a strong advantage for international supply chain operations to attract foreign investment into the area. FTZ users enjoy cost-saving benefits in cost of goods stored, produced or assembled, as well as cost reductions in transportation, distribution and other supply chain components.

The Kansas City region is one of the nation’s largest hubs for warehousing, distribution and manufacturing operations, ranking No. 2 in the Midwest and No. 4 in the nation for containerized imports, having achieved an estimated volume of 238,000 TEUs in 2021. Kansas City also ranked in the top 15 U.S. cities for foreign businesses by the Financial Times and Nikkei. 

About The Greater Kansas City Foreign Trade Zone, Inc.

GKCFTZ is a regional grantee of the national FTZ program. In 1974, GKCFTZ was the first nonprofit organization to be designated a grantee. GKCFTZ sponsors both Foreign-Trade Zone No. 15 in Kansas City, Missouri, and Zone No. 17 in Kansas City, Kansas. Zone 15 serves FTZ needs in 23 contiguous counties in the western half of Missouri, and Zone 17 presently serves nine counties in metropolitan Kansas City, Kansas. GKCFTZ is one of the largest zones in the country, with over 450 million square feet of approved foreign trade zone space that includes General Purpose and Subzone space in both Kansas and Missouri. | www.gkcftz.com 

About KC SmartPort

An affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council, KC SmartPort is the authority on industrial operations in the 18-county, two-state Kansas City region. The nonprofit economic development organization promotes and enhances the Kansas City region’s status as a leading North American inland port and logistics hub, attracting industrial company investment into the market. In the last five years, KC SmartPort has contributed to the attraction of nearly 12,000 jobs, more than $575 million in payroll and $5.8 billion in capital investment to the KC region. | www.kcsmartport.com 

Healthcare IT Leaders to Locate Managed Services Hub and Executive Offices in KC Region

The Aspiria Campus in Overland Park will serve as host to one of the fastest-growing health care companies in the U.S.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – September 10, 2024 – Today, The Kansas City Area Development Council announced that Healthcare IT Leaders, a national leader in health care consulting and digital transformation, plans to house its new IT managed services hub in a 10,520-square-foot Class A office space on the Aspiria Campus in Overland Park, Kansas.

“The health care industry increasingly relies on firms like ours to manage significant parts of their infrastructure and application stack. By locating our managed services hub in the Kansas City region, we’re able to meet that demand and rapidly expand our operations by leveraging the area’s extensive health IT talent network,” said Healthcare IT Leaders CEO, Ben Hilmes, a former senior executive at KC-based Cerner Corporation — now Oracle.

Healthcare IT Leaders is a full-service IT consultancy, connecting its 450+ clients with experienced technical, clinical, financial, business and operational talent. With hundreds of employees around the United States, and offices in Atlanta, Georgia; Boston, Massachusetts; and Greenville, South Carolina, the Kansas City location will house key senior executives and give the company a critical operational hub in the Midwest.

“Supporting innovative professional and technical services businesses is a big part of Kansas’ economic development strategic plan,” Kansas Commerce Deputy Secretary of Business Development Joshua Jefferson said. “Attracting Healthcare IT Leaders, one of the industry’s fastest growing IT service companies, is a huge win for the Kansas City region and the state.”  

Healthcare IT Leaders was recently named to the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing, privately held companies. The company’s investment in its new location is expected to create 25+ high-wage jobs with six-figure salary opportunities for skilled IT professionals.

Healthcare IT Leaders joins fellow innovative companies located on the Aspiria Campus, including T-Mobile, TraviPay and Cogent. Andrew Greene of Cushman & Wakefield assisted Healthcare IT Leaders with its office search. The Aspiria Campus is owned and operated by Occidental Management.

“The Overland Park Chamber and EDC are thrilled to have Healthcare IT Leaders join other prominent companies providing digital health services in Overland Park. The company’s decision to establish a location here is a testament to our growing reputation as a hub for innovation and health care excellence,” said Libbey Tucker, senior vice president of economic development at the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce. “This partnership will create high-quality jobs and further our region’s leadership in the technology and health care sectors.”

Driven by its key value of philanthropy, Healthcare IT Leaders is further strengthening its commitment to the KC region by serving as the Survivorship & Hope presenting sponsor for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night event in Overland Park on October 5. Funds raised support lifesaving research, advocacy and aid for blood cancer patients and their families.

The Kansas City region’s digital health sector is a hub for companies innovating at the intersection of health care and information technology. With more than 100 pioneering companies and a network of 25,000 seasoned professionals, digital health companies in the KC region are revolutionizing health care.

“The addition of Healthcare IT Leaders to our region is an exciting opportunity for Kansas City’s thriving digital health cluster. The company’s expertise in health care innovation will be invaluable to forging new pathways for ideas, talent, capital and customers to converge,” said Dick Flanigan, CEO of Digital Health KC. “We look forward to supporting the collaborative innovations Healthcare IT Leaders’ presence will foster within our robust network of digital health companies.”

“In today’s highly competitive economic development landscape, exceptional real estate, strong workforce and a vibrant community are key to attracting successful office deals. Kansas City offers all these advantages at a world-class level,” said Tim Cowden, president and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “The ease of doing business, combined with a booming tech job growth and a skyrocketing global brand, make the KC region a premier destination for innovative businesses including Healthcare IT Leaders.”

About Healthcare IT Leaders

Healthcare IT Leaders is a national leader in IT consulting and workforce solutions. We help leading hospitals and health systems achieve their goals for digital transformation and optimal patient care with implementation services, project management, consulting, managed services and talent solutions. | healthcareitleaders.com

About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)

Serving the 18-county, two-state Kansas City area, the Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the region’s business and lifestyle assets to companies and talent around the world. Working closely with its two states, and 50-plus county and community partners, the region has attracted more than 64,000 new jobs over its 45-year history. KCADC also leads the efforts behind the KC Animal Health Corridor, KC SmartPort, TeamKC, KC Global Design and KC Heartland. | onekc.org