For agri-food companies looking to expand, Missouri offers a rare combination: abundant resources, business-friendly policies, and a proven track record of attracting industry leaders.

A Hub for Value-Added Agriculture

From food ingredients to renewable fuels, Missouri is home to a thriving ecosystem of businesses that transform raw crops into high-value products. With corn, soybeans, dairy, and livestock in abundant supply, companies can access everything they need to scale production.

More than 500 food and agriculture companies already operate in Missouri, supported by almost 90,000 farms across the state. That foundation has drawn major investments:

• Swift Prepared Foods opened its Principe Foods facility in Columbia, a $200 million, 325,000 sq. ft. operation producing premium Italian meats.
• American Foods Group opened its America’s Heartland Packing facility in Warren County, strengthening Missouri’s beef processing sector.
• Deli Star Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of prepared meal proteins and deli solutions, opened a new headquarters and food research and development hub in St. Louis.

These projects showcase Missouri’s ability to support companies across the spectrum—from food production to cutting-edge ingredient innovation.

Principe Foods

Deli Star Corporation

Deli Star Corporation

America’s Heartland Packing

America’s Heartland Packing

Business-Friendly, Growth-Oriented

Missouri offers competitive tax rates, affordable land and energy, and targeted incentives like the Missouri Works program and the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA). These programs provide grants, low-interest loans, and other financial support to help agri-food businesses succeed.

Missouri’s incentive programs, affordable operating costs, and dedicated workforce development initiatives make it one of the most supportive states for agri-food growth.

• Americold invested $100+ million in Kansas City for a 335,000 sq. ft. cold storage import-export hub, connected to CPKC’s rail service, creating ~190 jobs.
• The Agri-Ready County designation program, supported by Missouri Farmers Care, ensures local communities are prepared and welcoming to new ag investments.

Americold

Americold

Innovation at the Core

Leading research institutions such as the University of Missouri, 39 North innovation districtand the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, place research and commercialization side by side. From exploring new uses for soy proteins to advancing bio-based fuels, Missouri’s research partnerships help companies innovate and compete on a global scale.

Companies like Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies, investing $17+ million in a fertilizer plant in St. Louis, highlight the state’s role in sustainable ag innovation.

And for early stage innovative food and agtech companies, St. Louis’ Yield Lab is a non-profit organization dedicated to enabling entrepreneurs who are revolutionizing agri-food systems to sustainably feed the world.

Positioned to Reach the World

Missouri’s central location means companies can reach half the U.S. population within a one-day drive. Combined with extensive rail, river, and air connections, agri-food businesses in Missouri enjoy unmatched logistical efficiency.

From international food giants to innovative startups, companies are choosing Missouri because it delivers the resources, support, and market access needed for long-term success.

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Site in Kansas City, MO, to welcome new jobs and more than 10,000 NVIDIA GPUs, with additional growth opportunities

Kansas City, MO – October 28, 2025 – Lambda, the Superintelligence Cloud, today announced it is planning to transform an unoccupied 2009-built facility in Kansas City, Missouri, into a state-of-the-art AI Factory.

This Kansas City deployment is part of Lambda’s mission to build the infrastructure backbone for the Superintelligence era. Under the agreement, Lambda is planning to develop and operate the facility as the sole tenant. The site is expected to launch in early 2026 with 24MW of capacity, and the potential to scale up to more than 100MW in the future.

“Missouri is proud to welcome Lambda as they create new, high-quality jobs and strengthen our state’s technology and innovation ecosystem,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Their decision to grow here demonstrates the confidence that leading companies have in our people, our infrastructure, and our pro-business environment. It’s been said that AI is the space race of our time, and we must win. Data centers are the future and critical to our continued ability to drive technological innovation, strengthen our economy, and safeguard our national security interests. Partnerships like this ensure Missouri remains at the forefront of America’s winning strategy.”

“Our Kansas City development perfectly embodies Lambda’s strategy: a prime location for our customers, an accelerated deployment timeline, and an unwavering commitment to on-time delivery,” said Ken Patchett, VP of Datacenter Infrastructure at Lambda. “We believe this success stems from completely rethinking how AI factories should be built and operated.”

Building big, shipping fast

When the facility launches in early 2026, it will initially feature more than 10,000 NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra GPUs—a footprint expected to double over time. The supercomputer is dedicated to a single Lambda customer for large-scale AI training and inference, under a multi-year agreement.

“Today in Kansas City, we are building the infrastructure to capitalize on AI’s boom,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas. “An investment of this scale in the Northland highlights our city’s strength in technology, innovation, and job creation, and brings an empty asset back to life through creative reuse.”

“This investment from Lambda showcases the Kansas City region’s ability to creatively reimagine assets and attract transformative investment,” said Tim Cowden, President and CEO, Kansas City Area Development Council. “Data centers are critical to powering the innovation economy, and Kansas City wields the strength of infrastructure, reliable power, and a deep IT talent pool that continues to draw leading technology companies to the region.”

The project enables Lambda to repurpose unused power and transform a formerly advanced data center into an AI-ready, future-proofed facility. The initial phase of the project is expected to include upwards of half a billion dollars and several employees and contracted staff working directly on site and maintaining the extensive equipment and machinery. Future phases at the site are still being evaluated and discussed with local partners.

“Lambda’s investment in the Kansas City area emphasizes our state’s growing strength in technology and innovation,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “DED is proud to support future-focused projects like this that enhance our workforce, drive sustainable growth across the region, and create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.”

“Choosing Kansas City, Missouri, for a next-generation AI data center sends a clear message: Missouri is the tech leader in the center of the country,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “We applaud Lambda for building an AI factory in the heart of the U.S. This is a generational investment that will expand opportunity for Missourians and accelerate the digital economy.”

This project was made through many local partners in Kansas City including the State of Missouri, Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC), Platte County EDC, City of Kansas City, Mo., Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Mo., Port KC, Evergy, Spire, KC Tech Council, Russell, Henderson Engineers, U.S. Engineering, and Capital Electric.

About Lambda
Lambda, The Superintelligence Cloud, builds gigawatt-scale AI factories for training and inference. From prototyping to serving billions of users in production, we build the underlying infrastructure that powers AI. Lambda was founded in 2012 by published AI engineers.

Lambda’s mission is to make compute as ubiquitous as electricity and give everyone in America the power of superintelligence. One person, One GPU.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 35,400+ new jobs, $1.8 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8.4 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Missouri – Oct. 10, 2025 – As part of its continued investment in Missouri, Amazon announced plans to open four last-mile facilities across the state in Scott City, Brookfield, Sedalia, and Maryville by the end of this year, as part of its delivery network expansion throughout rural America. These investments will help improve delivery speeds for customers, boost local economic growth, and add to the more than 11,000 full- and part-time jobs created and $5.3 billion invested in Missouri since 2010. This is also part of Amazon’s $4 billion investment to increase delivery speeds in smaller communities across the U.S.

“Amazon’s continued investment in Missouri underscores the strength of our state’s workforce and business climate,” said Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe. “Each new facility represents quality jobs for Missourians and new opportunities for our rural communities to grow and thrive.”

“Missouri’s priority for collaboration, local support, and strong, dedicated workforce has created a perfect environment for us to expand and provide faster delivery for our customers across the state,” said Jason Vangalis, Manager of Economic Development for Amazon in Missouri. “We appreciate Governor Mike Kehoe, our economic development partners, and local officials whose partnership made this expansion possible and will increase delivery speed for our customers.”

“Amazon’s continued investment in Missouri highlights the strategic advantage of our state’s position in the heart of the U.S., along with the talent and dedication of our local workforce and communities,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “These new delivery stations will support local economies and strengthen Missouri’s role as a hub for commerce and logistics. We thank Amazon for their ongoing commitment to investing in our state and creating opportunities for Missourians.”

The facilities are collectively expected to create more than 150 full- and part-time jobs, in addition to new driver opportunities to better serve rural customers. Amazon’s U.S. customer fulfillment and transportation employees earn an average of more than $22 per hour nationally. Missouri facilities details:

• Scott City Delivery Station: Opening in fall 2025. It will be 62,000 square feet and is located at250 Semo Industrial Drive, Scott City, MO 63780.
• Brookfield Delivery Station: Opening in late fall 2025. It will be 17,000 square feet and will belocated at 110 Stanbury Industrial Drive, Brookfield, MO 64628.
• Sedalia Delivery Station: Opening in late fall 2025. It is 63,000 square feet and is located at 5105W.Main Street, Sedalia, MO 65301.
• Maryville Delivery Station: Opening in late fall 2025. It is 11,800 square feet and is located at701 Wilson Industrial Road, Maryville, MO 64468.

Delivery stations power the last mile of Amazon’s order process and help speed up deliveries. Packages are shipped to a delivery station from neighboring Amazon Fulfillment and Sortation Centers, loaded into delivery vehicles and delivered to customers. Delivery stations offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to build their own business delivering Amazon packages, as well as independent contractors the flexibility to be their own boss and create their own schedule delivering for Amazon Flex.

Since 2010, Amazon’s investments in Missouri, including infrastructure and employee compensation, has added $5.3 billion to the state’s GDP and created 11,700 indirect jobs on top of the company’s direct hires—from jobs in construction and logistics to professional services.

About Amazon
Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

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Glasgow, Mo. – October 8, 2025 – Heritage Wood Mills officially opened the doors of its new manufacturing facility in Glasgow, Missouri. The company was joined by state and local leaders for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community celebration. The event marked a significant milestone for Heritage Wood Mills, which is dedicated to producing premium, 100% Missouri-made cabinetry.

“Heritage Wood Mills is a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Missouri strong,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “By choosing to invest and grow in Glasgow, they’re creating good-paying jobs, strengthening the local economy, and supporting our state’s proud tradition of forestry and manufacturing. We celebrate their grand opening and look forward to the impact they will have in this community for generations to come.”

“Today is a big milestone not just for Heritage Wood Mills, but for Glasgow as well,” said Clint Jacobs, CEO of Heritage Wood Mills. “This new facility is a reflection of our commitment to investing in local jobs, preserving true craftsmanship, and building a sustainable future right here at home. We’re proud to open our doors and celebrate this moment with our neighbors, partners, and friends.”

The state-of-the-art facility will serve customers across Missouri and surrounding states, offering everything from convenient online cabinet orders to fully customized designs. By manufacturing entirely within Missouri, Heritage Wood Mills ensures quality, reliability, and a commitment to strengthening the local economy.

“Today we celebrate not just the opening of a new business, but the beginning of a strong partnership with Heritage Wood Mills,” said Mayor Donald Clear. “This facility will provide opportunities for our citizens and help fuel economic growth in our community.”

“The opening of Heritage Wood Mills is a great example of how collaboration drives rural economic growth,” said Kaylee Paffrath, President & CEO of the Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation. “We’re proud to stand with Heritage Wood Mills as they begin this exciting new chapter in Glasgow.”

The company has invested nearly $1 million into the project and created 30 new jobs in the region.

“Heritage Wood Mills’ new facility in Glasgow is the latest example of an employer helping Missourians prosper through investment and job creation,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “DED is proud to support this exciting project that was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and the contributions of our incredible partners.”

“Heritage Wood Mills represents the best of what Missouri has to offer – skilled craftsmanship, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to building a brighter future right here at home,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “By choosing to invest in Glasgow, Heritage Wood Mills is creating opportunities for local families while showcasing the strength of Missouri-made products across the region and beyond.”

Missouri Partnership worked with several partners to attract Heritage Wood Mills to Glasgow, including: the city of Glasgow, Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation, Howard County Economic Development Council, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Evergy, and Liberty Utilities.

Heritage Wood Mills is now fully operational, bringing tradition, innovation, and Missouri craftsmanship together under one roof.

About Heritage Wood Mills

Founded in 2018, Heritage Wood Mills, a division of CAM Construction Services, specializes in crafting high-quality custom cabinetry for both residential and commercial spaces. With a commitment to superior craftsmanship and innovative design, we offer a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes to bring each client’s unique vision to life. From kitchens and bathrooms to tailored storage solutions, our team blends expert artistry with state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional results. Proudly serving Missouri and the surrounding areas, Heritage Wood Mills is dedicated to creating spaces that embody functionality, durability, and timeless beauty.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 35,400+ new jobs, $1.8 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8.4 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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North America’s leading outdoor and conservation-focused company will move Hobie production from Mexico to Lebanon, Missouri

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – September 24, 2025 – Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group announced today the acquisition of Hobie, a legendary water sports brand. The agreement unites two of the most storied and well-respected watercraft manufacturers while bringing new jobs to Lebanon, Missouri.

“We’re proud to see Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group deepening their commitment to Missouri through this expansion,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This investment is strengthening the community of Lebanon while contributing to Missouri’s reputation as a prime destination for both business and outdoor adventure.”

“Uniting with Hobie is a very proud day in our company’s history,” said Johnny Morris, Founder and Lead Outfitter, and Bryan Niketh, President of Manufacturing at White River Marine Group. “We extend Hobie Dealers a warm welcome to our White River Family. We are deeply committed to Hobie and supporting its dealer network as we embark on a very bright future together!”

White River Marine will expand its existing manufacturing facility in Lebanon, Missouri. The return of Hobie production to the U.S. marks an exciting new chapter. Rooted in the Ozarks region, known for its rich outdoor heritage and skilled manufacturing workforce, this move ensures Hobie products will continue to embody quality, innovation, and a true passion for life on the water.

“White River Marine Group has continued to spur economic growth in our community for nearly five decades,” said Mayor Jared Carr. “This additional expansion in Lebanon will create new opportunities for our amazing workforce for many more years to come. We are blessed by and thankful for White River Marine’s commitment to the City of Lebanon, Laclede County, and the State of Missouri, and we’re excited to see the outcomes this expansion will deliver in the very near future.”

The project is supported by the State of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, the City of Lebanon and Lebanon Regional Economic Development, Inc. (Lebanon REDI).

“DED is excited to support White River Marine Group as they help Missourians prosper in Lebanon,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “This project was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and collaboration with our incredible partners.”

“We are proud that Missouri is home to the headquarters of global powerhouse Bass Pro Shops and industry leader White River Marine Group,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Their decision to reshore jobs to our state is a testament to Missouri’s skilled workforce and pro-business environment. We are looking forward to adding Hobie watercraft to the long list of innovative products and storied brands that are made in Missouri.”

About Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops, North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company, was founded in 1972 when avid young angler Johnny Morris started selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri. That was the company’s sole location for the first 13 years, and it has since grown to nearly 200 retail locations throughout North America. Today the company provides customers with unmatched offerings spanning premier destination retail, outdoor equipment manufacturing, world-class resort destinations and more. In 2017 Bass Pro Shops united with Cabela’s to create a “best-of-the-best” experience with superior products, dynamic locations and outstanding customer service. Bass Pro Shops also operates White River Marine Group, offering an unsurpassed collection of industry-leading boat brands, and Big Cedar Lodge, America’s Premier Wilderness Resort. Under the visionary conservation leadership of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops is a national leader in protecting habitat and introducing families to the outdoors and has been named by Newsweek as “America’s Best Outdoor Retailer” for four consecutive years and “America’s Most Trusted Retailer for Outdoor Gear.”

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 35,300+ new jobs, $1.8 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8.3 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Excerpt from Missouri Soybean Farmer, August 2025

Missouri: Attracting Investment at the Intersection of Food & Ag Innovation

Missouri has become a national standout for companies in the food and ag space – not just because of its location or natural resources, but because of the way the state supports innovation, infrastructure, and long-term growth. Recent wins across the state highlight a clear trend: Missouri is helping companies grow stronger. In an extremely competitive landscape, Missouri Partnership is collaborating with statewide partners to win business attraction deals that are shaping the future of the state and the industry.

Recent Investment from Global Companies:

• Beck’s soybean seed processing facility in New Madrid – The largest family-owned retail seed company in the U.S. broke ground on a new soybean seed processing facility in November 2024. The state-of-the-art facility will have a processing capacity of 3 million units of soybeans per year. It will also feature additional warehouse space and seed storage, ensuring that Beck’s can effectively meet the needs of farmers in the area. The facility is projected to be fully operational by fall 2026. Beck’s decision to operate in Missouri underscores the state’s role as a hub for soybean genetics and processing.
• American Foods Group (AFG) beef processing plant in Warren County – In 2025, American Foods Group (AFG) launched operations at its new $800 million, 775,000-square-foot beef processing facility in Warren County. At full capacity, the plant is expected to employ 1,300 people with an annual payroll of $80 million, generating an estimated $1 billion in annual economic impact for Missouri. This project exemplifies how Missouri remains competitive in high-value animal protein processing.
• JBS Foods doubles down in Missouri – JBS Foods is a global, diversified protein company with facilities worldwide. The company first expanded into Missouri in May 2021 when it opened Swift Prepared Foods in Moberly. The new $68 million facility produces ready-to-eat, fully cooked bacon. After having a positive experience in the state, the company selected Missouri once again for another subsidiary, Principe Foods. They invested more than $200 million in the new 325,000 sq. ft. Italian meats and charcuterie production facility in Columbia, reinforcing Missouri’s reputation in specialty meat manufacturing.
• Ostara’s Crystal Green® fertilizer plant – The Canadian-founded company selected Missouri for its new $17 million Crystal Green® fertilizer production facility. After a competitive search, Ostara executives chose St. Louis due to its thriving and innovative agtech ecosystem, world-class educational institutions, and central location.

Feeding long‑term capacity

Beyond projects that make headlines, Missouri Partnership is dedicated to empowering economic development partners across the state through its Capacity-Building program. Recently, five communities participated in the organization’s Raise the Bar – Assess initiative, which aims to strengthen communities’ competitiveness for business attraction. Missouri Partnership collaborated with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA), and Missouri Farmers Care on the initiative. A core component of Raise the Bar – Assess is an intensive mock site visit that mimics food & beverage business attraction projects. Hannibal, Jefferson City, Kirksville, Moberly, and Springfield participated in the program to sharpen their readiness for future food and ag investors.

For the full article, pick up the August edition of Missouri Soybean Farmer magazine.

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August 29, 2025 (JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – Acculevel, Inc., a foundation repair and basement waterproofing company, announced today it is expanding into Missouri with three new regional headquarters across the state. The company was joined by Governor Mike Kehoe to celebrate the announcement. Acculevel is investing $8.7 million to establish new facilities in Kennett, Sarcoxie, and Smithville, creating 41 new jobs at each location with wages well above the county average.

“Acculevel’s decision to establish three facilities in Missouri demonstrates confidence in our state’s ideal business climate,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “We’re proud that this company is investing and creating good-paying jobs in these communities and look forward to its continued success.”

“Our decision to expand into Missouri reflects both confidence in these communities and our commitment to contributing to their future,” said Andy Beery, Founder & CEO of Acculevel. “By creating good-paying jobs, supporting local suppliers, and delivering unmatched foundation repair expertise, we’re investing in the economic strength and stability of the region. We’re proud to be part of Missouri’s growth story.”

Acculevel’s new facilities will expand the company’s service footprint across Missouri and the greater Midwest, allowing it to serve additional homeowners in new communities. With local crews, inventory, and dedicated space for fleet staging and training, the company will shorten response times, boost reliability, and increase capacity – all while creating quality skilled-trades jobs and strengthening partnerships with local suppliers and community organizations.

Community leaders in Kennett, Sarcoxie, and Smithville welcome the company’s investment, noting the positive impact on local job creation and the significant economic benefits it will bring.

“We are thrilled to welcome Acculevel to Kennett,” said Melissa Combs, Director of Economic Development in Dunklin County. “This investment means more than new jobs – it represents new opportunities for our residents and continued growth for our county.”

“Acculevel’s decision to expand here is a commitment to Sarcoxie’s people and the potential of our region,” said Amy Kauffman, Executive Director of MOKAN Partnership. “These new, high-paying jobs will boost economic growth and deliver meaningful, long-term benefits to our local communities.”

“Smithville is proud to be part of Acculevel’s Missouri expansion,” said Cynthia Wagner, City Administrator of Smithville. “Their investment will have a lasting impact on our community, bringing high-quality jobs and reaffirming that Smithville is a great place to do business and build a future.”

Acculevel selected Missouri for its central location and strong highway network, making it ideal for reaching customers across the Midwest and supporting eastward expansion. The state’s pro-business climate, collaborative local partners, skilled workforce, and welcoming communities provide the right environment to meet regional demand for foundation repair and concrete leveling services while fostering long-term partnerships.

“We’re grateful for the trust Acculevel has placed in our state as it establishes these new locations,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “DED is excited to support this company as it invests, creates jobs, and helps Missourians prosper in Kennett, Sarcoxie, and Smithville.”

“Acculevel’s decision to establish not just one, but three new regional headquarters in Missouri is a powerful statement about the strength of our state,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “By investing in Kennett, Sarcoxie, and Smithville, Acculevel is bringing opportunity to multiple regions, creating good-paying jobs, and reinforcing Missouri’s reputation as a place where businesses can grow and communities prosper.” Construction is expected to be finished at the Kennett and Sarcoxie facilities by the end of 2026, with Smithville to follow shortly thereafter.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 35,200+ new jobs, $1.8 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8.3 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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With robust infrastructure, affordable and skilled talent, and rising innovation hubs across the state, Missouri offers the environment businesses need to move fast, expand confidently, and thrive for the long haul. Whether you’re a newly established business ready to accelerate or a global company eyeing new markets, Missouri is built to scale.

A Logistics and Distribution Powerhouse

Missouri’s central location isn’t just convenient, it’s strategic for scaling operations. With access to half of the U.S. population within a day’s drive, businesses benefit from faster shipping, lower transportation costs, and the ability to serve both coasts with ease.

Key logistics assets include:

• An extensive interstate highway network
• Major rail hubs (served by all Class I railroads)
• The second and third-largest rail centers in the U.S. (St. Louis and Kansas City)
• Inland ports on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers
• International airports in St. Louis and Kansas City
• Top-performing Foreign Trade Zones, including Kansas City’s, which ranks among the nation’s busiest

Success stories: 

Chick-fil-A Supply, a subsidiary of Chick-fil-A, Inc., selected Maryland Heights, Missouri for a new market distribution center to serve more than 40 Chick-fil-A® restaurants in the region.

Nuuly, the sustainable clothing rental service powered by URBN, chose Kansas City, Missouri, for its new distribution facility, drawn by the state’s logistics advantages and commitment to supporting innovative, waste-reducing retail models.

A Skilled, Reliable, and Affordable Workforce

Scaling requires talent, and Missouri delivers. The state’s labor force is known for being hardworking, loyal, and increasingly tech-savvy. What sets Missouri apart is the balance of skill and affordability, offering companies an edge in workforce costs without sacrificing quality.

• Custom training programs like Missouri One Start help companies ramp up hiring and tailor talent development to their needs.
• Over 50 colleges and universities produce job-ready graduates.

Success story:

Carlisle Construction Materials selected Sikeston, Missouri to expand its manufacturing operations, creating over 100 new jobs. The company cited access to a qualified workforce and strong state-level support as key drivers.

Emerging Innovation Hubs Across the State

Scaling isn’t just about physical space, it’s also about ecosystem support. Missouri’s innovation hubs are rapidly gaining national attention for their startup accelerators, university partnerships, and collaborative business environments.

• St. Louis is home to innovation districts like Cortex and 39 North, along with biotech incubators and research institutions.
• Kansas City boasts a thriving tech scene, supported by hubs like the Keystone Innovation District and organizations like Digital Sandbox KC.
• Springfield and Columbia are growing centers of entrepreneurship, supported by entities like efactory (Missouri State University) and the Missouri Innovation Center.

Startup highlight:

EquipmentShare, founded in Columbia, Missouri, scaled from a local tech startup to a national construction equipment solutions provider, raising over $1 billion in funding. Missouri’s combination of affordability, talent, and supportive business climate helped it grow fast and stay rooted in support.

A Business Climate That Encourages Growth

Beyond logistics and talent, Missouri offers a pro-business, low-cost environment that makes scaling smoother and more sustainable.

• Low corporate income tax
• Affordable commercial real estate
• Accessible local and state economic development support
  

From site selection and permitting to training incentives and R&D support, Missouri has a long track record of helping growing companies succeed.

Success story:

Accenture Federal Services opened a new Advanced Technology Center in St. Louis, creating hundreds of high-paying tech jobs. The company’s expansion was supported by customized talent strategies and state partnerships.

Whether you’re expanding your footprint, doubling your headcount, or preparing to serve a national or global market, Missouri provides the foundation to scale with speed, confidence, and control.

Contact our team today to learn more about expanding into Missouri.

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August 20, 2025 (KANSAS CITY, Mo.) – Meta announced today that its Kansas City Data Center is now serving traffic. That means that this data center is now part of the company’s global infrastructure that brings its technologies and services to life, making it possible to connect billions of people worldwide. Meta has been a part of the Kansas City community since breaking ground on the data center in 2022.

“In 2022, we selected Kansas City because it offered excellent infrastructure, a robust electrical grid, a strong pool of talent for construction and operations jobs, and incredible community partners,” said Brad Davis, Data Center Community and Economic Development Director at Meta. “We are extremely proud to be part of this community, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our partnership for years to come. Our thanks go to the State of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri Partnership, Kansas City Area Development Council, Evergy, Missouri Department of Economic Development, Turner Construction – Kansas City, and the rest of our amazing partners who have helped get us to this important milestone.”

Construction of the Kansas City Data Center has resulted in an average of 1,500 skilled trade workers on site at peak, and the facility will support more than 100 jobs when fully operational. This facility represents an investment of more than $1 billion in the state of Missouri.

“Meta’s grand opening in Kansas City is a powerful testament to Missouri’s ability to attract and support the most innovative companies in the world,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “This investment brings transformative technology, high-quality jobs, and lasting economic impact to our state, and we are proud that Meta chose Missouri as a key part of its future.”

From the beginning, Meta has been committed to being an active part of the Kansas City-area community and investing in its long-term vitality. The company has provided more than $1 million in direct funding to Clay County, Platte County, and City of Kansas City, Missouri schools and nonprofits. Meta is also investing in local small businesses with Community Accelerator events focused on AI training. These events will equip business owners with the necessary skills to benefit from AI tools, including Meta AI.

“Meta’s investment in Kansas City is a clear signal that our city is a place where innovation, talent, and community come together,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas. “We look forward to working with Meta to ensure this development integrates well with our community priorities and delivers meaningful benefits for Kansas City residents.”

“Meta’s investment in Kansas City is more than a billion-dollar vote of confidence in our people and our potential,” said Tracey Lewis, President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri. “From the thousands of skilled trade workers who helped build the facility to the operational jobs it will support for years to come, this project is creating real opportunities for Kansas Citians and strengthening our local workforce.”

Like all of its data centers, Meta’s Kansas City Data Center is LEED Gold certified, and its electricity use is matched with 100% clean and renewable energy. Meta also prioritizes water stewardship, and the Kansas City Data Center was a leader in implementing construction water ‘Best Management Practices’ – utilizing stormwater from onsite retention ponds for construction activities. This resulted in over one million gallons of potable water being saved during the construction process.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 35,200+ new jobs, $1.8 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8.3 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

Originally Appeared Here

Photo courtesy of City Of Glasgow, MO

With over $2 million in new manufacturing investments in recent months, Glasgow, Missouri is showing the kind of momentum that turns heads.

Glasgow is a charming small city nestled on the northern bank of the Missouri River in Howard County. The scenic river town is near the center of the state, 41 miles from Columbia, Missouri and 112 miles from Kansas City, Missouri.

Recently, Glasgow has welcomed two major business expansions that highlight its growing appeal for manufacturers:

• CAM Construction Services is expanding its cabinet manufacturing division, Heritage Wood Mills, to Glasgow with an investment of $925,000.
• Phoenix Manufacturing, an industrial manufacturing and fabrication company, has invested more than $1.1 million in its local operation.

These investments signal something bigger: Glasgow, though small, is positioning itself as a smart choice for manufacturers ready to grow. Here’s why:

Strategically Located in the Heart of the Midwest

Nestled along the Missouri River in Howard County, Glasgow offers manufacturers a central location with easy access to major transportation routes. Companies benefit from connections to highways, rail lines, and river transportation, which keeps their supply chains moving and costs competitive.

Business-Friendly Community That Supports Growth

What makes Glasgow stand out is its collaborative spirit. Local leaders, regional partners, and the business community work hand-in-hand to help manufacturers succeed. From streamlining permitting to connecting businesses with incentives and workforce solutions, the city’s pro-business approach is paying off.

“We’re proud to be part of Glasgow’s growth and excited about the future of Heritage Wood Mills in this community. The support we’ve received from local leaders and the welcoming business environment made expanding here an easy decision. Glasgow offers the perfect mix of location, workforce, and small-town values that align with our long-term vision. We’re thrilled to invest in a place that believes in building something lasting.” — Clint Jacobs, CEO of CAM Construction Services

Reliable Workforce and Lower Operating Costs

Glasgow and the surrounding region are known for a workforce with strong values, loyalty, and a willingness to roll up their sleeves. For manufacturers, this means stable operations and less turnover. Pair that with affordable real estate, lower utility costs, and manageable taxes, and it’s clear why investment dollars go further in Glasgow.

A Community that Retains Talent

Glasgow delivers with its small-town charm, safe neighborhoods, good schools, and scenic Missouri River views. These quality-of-life benefits help companies attract and retain the skilled people they need to grow.

“It’s an exciting time for manufacturers in rural Missouri. Glasgow is proving that the strength of the region’s workforce and the dedication of local partners make it a great place to do business. These recent investments show how a strong manufacturing base can truly benefit a community.” — Kaylee Paffrath, President/CEO, Moberly Area Economic Development Corporatio

For manufacturers ready to expand or relocate in the Midwest, Glasgow is a hidden gem with all the right ingredients: central location, supportive leadership, an eager workforce, and room to grow.

Want to learn more about what Glasgow, Missouri, can offer your business? Connect with our team today.

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