Innovation + Research
Powering Progress in Animal Health
The KC Animal Health Corridor is powered by world-class research institutions and a spirit of innovation that drives global breakthroughs. From diagnostics and vaccines to data-driven care, the region fuels the future of animal health.
Advancing Innovation
Connections to Capital
Our relationships with specialized investors create clear paths for companies seeking to accelerate commercialization and scale.
Network of Strategic Partners
Our industry network helps companies find the right partners to accelerate product development, expand market reach, and deepen impact.
Emerging Company Forum
Where innovators pitch to investors and industry leaders
Emerging companies presenting at the Animal Health Summit have raised over $500M and secured licensing and distribution deals. Since its start, nearly 600 companies from 28 countries and nearly every U.S. state have applied to participate.
Plug and Play: Topeka
Silicon Valley Innovation in KC
Plug and Play Topeka brings a globally recognized, Silicon Valley–based accelerator to the heart of the Animal Health Corridor. Startups gain access to capital, mentors, and corporate partners that fast-track commercialization and scale.
Corridor Research Assets
MRIGlobal
A global leader in contract research, MRIGlobal advances human and animal therapeutics GMP/GLP-compliant testing, regulatory services and vaccine development — from early formulation to regulatory approval.
Stowers Institute for Medical Research
Renowned for foundational biomedical research, the Stowers Institute’s world-class scientists advance discoveries in genetics, cell biology and disease, with a state-of-the-art Kansas City campus that fuels breakthroughs across life sciences.
National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF)
As the nation’s premier animal disease research center, NBAF conducts high-level biosafety research to prevent and respond to transboundary and zoonotic diseases, safeguarding animal agriculture, public health and food supply.
Biologics Development Module (BDM)
Located within NBAF, the BDM facility accelerates early-stage vaccine and diagnostic development, advancing innovations from lab discovery to scalable proof-of-concept in a secure, GMP-ready research environment — reducing risk for commercial investment.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
With its National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and Economic Research Service (ERS) agencies headquartered in Kansas City, USDA contributes strategic leadership, funding and data-driven insight into food, agriculture and animal health policy.
Kansas State University
K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine and its Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD) center lead groundbreaking research in zoonotic disease, food safety and infectious disease.
University of Kansas
The University of Kansas is a hub for translational science and biopharmaceutical innovation, with strengths in vaccine and biotherapeutic development through its Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center (VAFC) and cutting-edge research at its NCI-designated Cancer Center.
University of Missouri
Home to the National Swine Resource and Research Center (NSRRC), MU integrates veterinary, medical and agricultural disciplines to pioneer swine models for human health, advancing cross-species breakthroughs in medicine and biotechnology.
Let’s Build the Future of Animal Health — Together
If your company is innovating in animal health, diagnostics or pet food, the KC Animal Health Corridor offers unmatched opportunity and support. Get in touch to see how we can help your business grow.
Kimberly Young
President
KC Animal Health Corridor
816.654.3617
young@ThinkKC.com
Emily McVey
Vice President
KC Animal Health Corridor
816.522.6168
mcvey@ThinkKC.com
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