Bob Langenkamp, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri, announced today (October 1, 2015) that Kansas City, Missouri, has been named one of “America’s Best Cities for Global Trade” by Global Trade Magazine.
“The global outreach efforts of the EDC and especially its international trade staff are clearly paying dividends as we continue to grow our high-tech, entrepreneurial business environment in Kansas City. Through their hard work, businesses and organizations from everywhere are discovering how we continue to expand our innovative, high-tech community.”
“In today’s worldwide economy, international trade is essential to economic growth,” said Langenkamp. ”The Kansas City metropolitan area accounted for $8.3 billion in merchandise exports in 2014. The Global Trade Magazine designation is important in helping us tell the story that Kansas City, Missouri, is open for global business.“
Kansas City, Missouri, joins nine other major cities in being designated a best city for global trade.
Cities were chosen based on the following criteria:
Best business environment
Best export assistance
Most innovative
Best emerging cities
Best site selection assistance
Best global vibe
Best skilled workforce for manufacturers
Most employee-friendly
Best logistics infrastructure
Cities to watch
In January, the EDC hired 25-year international trade veteran Narbeli Galindo to manage international business development initiatives, increase import/export opportunities and attract international companies to locate facilities in Kansas City, Missouri.
“I am not surprised at all by this designation,” said Galindo. “Kansas City, Missouri, was also ranked one of the top five emerging entrepreneurial ecosystems in the world by the Global Entrepreneurial Network. In addition Kansas City was selected by Brookings Institution to join the Global Cities Initiative’s exchange and by J.P. Morgan to help U.S. cities develop exports and direct foreign investment connections.”
Media Contact: Michelle Cheesman 816-235-7725, or michelle@sturgesword.com