Kansas witnessed an extraordinary year in 2024, marked by massive investments and groundbreaking projects that spanned from Kansas City to Salina and the western plains.
These developments not only boosted the state’s economy but also positioned Kansas as a hub for innovation and business expansion.
Let’s dive into the top 10 economic wins of 2024, their significance, and the key industries driving this growth.
Top 10 Economic Development Wins of 2024
Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful projects across Kansas:
| Rank | Company | Location | Investment | Key Industry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elanco | Elwood | $130.8 million | Animal Health |
| 2 | SFC Global Supply Chain Inc. | Salina | $114.1 million | Food Manufacturing |
| 3 | Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Co. | Olathe | $104 million | Beverage Production |
| 4 | Creekstone Farms Premium Beef LLC | Arkansas City | $103 million | Premium Beef Processing |
| 5 | Blue Sky Farms | Lewis | $100 million | Sustainable Farming |
| 6 | Flora Food Manufacturing US, LLC | Hugoton | $92 million | Plant-Based Food Manufacturing |
| 7 | Honeywell International | Olathe | $84 million | Aerospace and Defense |
| 8 | Associated Wholesale Grocers | Kansas City | $79.9 million | Grocery Supply Chain |
| 9 | Central Valley Ag | Courtland | $76.4 million | Agriculture and Logistics |
| 10 | General Mills | Olathe | $71.6 million | Food Production |
Key Highlights from the Top Projects
1. Elanco in Elwood ($130.8 Million)
Elanco, a global leader in animal health, committed the largest investment in Kansas in 2024. Their state-of-the-art facility in Elwood aims to advance research and development in veterinary medicine, creating hundreds of high-paying jobs and boosting the local economy.
2. SFC Global Supply Chain Inc. in Salina ($114.1 Million)
SFC Global’s investment will expand its food manufacturing operations, focusing on improving supply chain efficiencies. This project brings innovation to Salina and strengthens its reputation as a manufacturing hub.
3. Heartland Coca-Cola in Olathe ($104 Million)
This bottling facility expansion in Olathe enhances Kansas’ role in beverage production, increasing capacity and creating numerous logistics and production jobs.
4. Blue Sky Farms in Lewis ($100 Million)
Blue Sky Farms is a shining example of sustainable farming practices. Their investment supports eco-friendly agricultural techniques, reducing environmental impact while boosting local production.
5. Flora Food Manufacturing in Hugoton ($92 Million)
The plant-based food manufacturing facility in Hugoton aligns with global dietary trends. Flora Food’s investment ensures Kansas remains at the forefront of the plant-based food industry.
Kansas’ Economic Success by the Numbers
- Total Committed Projects: 266
- Total Private-Sector Investment: Over $3.4 billion
- Top Sectors: Food manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace, and logistics
- Jobs Created: Thousands of well-paying positions across the state
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite these impressive wins, Kansas faces challenges in workforce availability. Officials at the 2024 Kansas Economic Report release highlighted the need for workforce development to support private sector growth.
Addressing this gap through training programs and incentives will ensure the sustainability of these economic gains.
From Kansas City to Salina and western Kansas, 2024 was a banner year for economic development. Projects like Elanco’s massive investment and Flora Food’s innovative facility showcase Kansas’ growing reputation as a destination for business and innovation.
While challenges like workforce shortages remain, the state’s proactive strategies promise a bright future for its economy.
As Kansas enters 2025, these developments stand as a testament to its resilience and ambition, ensuring growth and prosperity for years to come. Could your city be next in line for such transformative investments? Stay tuned!
FAQs
How has Kansas attracted these investments?
Kansas has focused on creating a business-friendly environment through tax incentives, infrastructure development, and targeted industry support. This proactive approach has made the state a competitive destination for companies.
Which industry saw the most growth in 2024?
Food manufacturing led the way, with projects like SFC Global Supply Chain and General Mills driving significant investment and job creation.
What steps is Kansas taking to address workforce challenges?
The state is investing in training programs, public-private partnerships, and education initiatives to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting its growing industries.
