Kansas Businesses: Jobs for Kansans

Businesses in Kansas

The Department of Commerce’s stated mission is to empower individuals, businesses, and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. The agency has announced more than 20 new or expansion business opportunities that are expected to require over 4,800 jobs across the state. This article will highlight some of the upcoming projects.

Economic Projects Across the State

EMP Shield

In February 2023, the Department of Commerce announced that EMP Shield would be building a computer chip manufacturing facility in Burlington, Kansas. This facility is expected to create 1,200 jobs in the community, with an average annual wage of $66,000. Four production lines will be used to produce thousands of chips per week. Groundbreaking for the facility took place in September 2023. EMP Shield will partner with the Flint Hills Technical College and area high schools to provide training for potential employees.

KMW

In April 2024, KMW, a front loader and backhoe manufacturer, announced it was building a facility in Sterling, Kansas. The facility is expected to create 250 new jobs. KMW has two other facilities in Kansas, located in Great Bend and Lyons. The $105.0 million investment is anticipated to also allow for future expansion.

Michelin

More than 200 new jobs are expected in Junction City, Kansas, over the next five years based on Michelin increasing production of rubber tracks for agricultural equipment. [Note: Rubber tracks increase the mobility and flotation of tractors and farm machinery.] The plant’s estimated workforce will be 375 by 2026. This expansion project will increase the production of rubber tracks based on the anticipated needs of the company.

Upcoming Sales and Tax Revenue (STAR) Bond Projects Across the State

In addition to economic development projects, there are STAR Bond projects that have been announced and are in the planning and approval process. STAR Bonds allow local governments to use bond proceeds to help finance tourist attractions within development districts. STAR Bonds can be utilized for property acquisition, site preparation, and infrastructure.

Arena and Equestrian Center

The City of Colby, Kansas, approved a resolution in July 2024 that authorized a STAR Bond project for an arena and equestrian center. Currently, the Department of Commerce is working with the developer on finalizing the STAR Bond district, and it is expected to include a multi-purpose arena and equestrian center. No bonds have been issued at this time.

Mattel Adventure Park

According to Mattel, the Mattel Adventure Park is expected to open in 2026 in Bonner Springs, Kansas. Bonner Springs City Council members approved the creation of the STAR Bond district near the Kansas Speedway in April 2024. Developers anticipate a $500.0 million, 183-acre adventure park that will include Hot Wheels, Barbie, and other Mattel-themed experiences.

American Royal

Construction for the American Royal near the Kansas Speedway is currently underway. Developers are still working with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, to finalize project plans. This STAR Bond district is expected to include arenas, a learning and engagement center, and space for livestock shows and agricultural education.