KANSAS CITY, Mo. (October 26, 2026) – The Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC) ranks among the top regional economic development organizations across the country, according to a new survey of location advisors.
KCADC ranked No. 2 “best in class” regional economic development agency, according to the site selection consultants who participated in the survey.
“Maintaining a standard of excellence over time takes more than strong results. It takes a talented team, the trust of our private and public sector leadership and a shared belief in what this region can accomplish together,” said Tim Cowden, president and CEO of KCADC. “Being ranked among the nation’s top three economic development organizations for more than a decade speaks to the strength of those partnerships and the value of competing as OneKC. We’re stronger when we work together, and this recognition reflects the commitment of the entire region.”
KCADC has ranked among the nation’s top three regional economic development organizations in each of the last five DCI client surveys, dating back to 2014.
The “Winning Strategies in Economic Development Marketing” survey of location advisors and corporate executives, conducted by Development Counsellors International (DCI), has tracked economic development trends every three years since 1996. The 11th edition was revealed today at the International Economic Development Council Annual Conference, which is being held in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The new study reveals that marketing remains critical for shaping perceptions among corporate executives and location decision makers, particularly early in the site selection process and long before they contact an economic development organization. The study also finds that while relationships remain central to economic development, executives are increasingly forming impressions through digital channels, including AI platforms.
“The 11th edition of Winning Strategies arrives at a moment of significant opportunity for communities competing for business investment,” said Julie Curtin, partner and president of DCI’s economic development practice. “This year’s findings show that project activity is strong and marketing is more effective than at any point in the survey’s history. While relationships remain essential, the channels most influential in shaping perceptions of communities are changing. Communities that clearly communicate their strengths, provide credible information and build strong relationships will be best positioned to compete for investment.”
Survey Methodology
The survey respondents consist of executives at a random selection of U.S.-based companies with direct site selection responsibilities and is heavily weighted toward the following titles: CEO, President, CFO, COO and Senior/Vice president. The distribution list was augmented with the addition of 500 location advisors, a similarly influential group providing guidance and counsel to corporate executives nationwide.
For a free copy of the full “Winning Strategies” survey report or an executive summary, visit https://aboutdci.com/research/winning-strategies-in-economic-development-marketing-2026/.
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About the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC)
The Kansas City Area Development Council is an economic development nonprofit that promotes the OneKC 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 and KC Global Design. | onekc.org
About DCI
Development Counsellors International (DCI) is the leader in marketing places. Since 1960, the agency has worked with more than 500 cities, regions, states, provinces and countries, helping them attract investors, visitors and talent. DCI is a full-service and highly specialized agency focused on economic development, tourism and talent attraction, with expertise in all phases of marketing, including research, branding, strategy, public relations, paid media, analytics and websites. DCI has offices in North America and Europe.