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Business Journals
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Journals
Metro momentum: Kansas City gains steam across multiple sectors
If diversification makes for a healthy portfolio, the Kansas City metro area is accumulating a robust one. Developments across a broad swath of sectors reveal growing momentum, with the region's services expanding alongside to offer support. Looking at and beyond the reverberations of being a host city for next year's FIFA World Cup, game-changing initiatives promise to reshape Kansas City during the next decade. At a discussion sponsored by JE Dunn Construction and moderated by its Kansas City office director, Jeff Blaesing, panelists from a sampling of those arenas — sports, health care, the arts, economic development — described what's planned, anticipated effects, and how Kansas Citians can get involved. expand 'ROWING TOGETHER' When the Kansas City Area Development Council urges businesses to expand or relocate to the area, the economic development organization leans into the diverse options across its two states, 18 counties and 50 cities, said Samatha Jefferson, KCADC vice president. 'You have a lot of choices,' she said. There are different lifestyles, from urban to rural; a range of affordability; big city amenities with smaller town quality of life; and easy accessibility via plane, train, vehicle or river. The city also boasts a strong workforce that is well-educated and loyal. It's when the region flaunts those combined assets that Kansas City truly stands out, panelists said. 'We are very intentional about representing one KC and speaking of one region,' Jefferson said. 'What is good for one part of our region is good for everyone.' Regional collaboration won Kansas City its World Cup bid, even though it's the smallest host city, said Pam Kramer, CEO of KC2026, the metro's World Cup organizing committee. And regional collaboration will continue making a difference. 'We need everyone rowing together to capitalize on the opportunity,' Kramer said. The metro must meet requirements such as safety and security, transportation, and hosting a FIFA Fan Festival, which will be at Kansas City's National WWI Museum and Memorial. But organizers also hope to use the platform to showcase Kansas City's assets, such as its numerous sports teams; talented workforce, exhibited via the 6,000 local volunteers needed to help with World Cup events; and business opportunities, highlighted through a KC House trade mission event planned for foreign heads of state and C-suite executives in town for the World Cup. Expecting about 650,000 people in a 45-day span, KC2026 has been communicating with roughly 50 small business support organizations about resources that will be available to help small businesses, as well as to find out what small businesses need. The organizations then spread the word to small businesses, with additional information following once it's clear which countries will come to Kansas City. Kramer hopes the model created for hosting the World Cup can be a blueprint for future large, regional events. 'At the end of this, I hope the headline is, 'How did the smallest host city become the heart of the World Cup?'' Kramer said. 'Presenting that unified front and showing that everybody benefits — when we do that, I think it will be one of our greatest legacies.' 'A DESTINATION FOR HEALTH CARE' World-class health care forms yet another of the area's draws. The University of Kansas Health System is in the midst of bold moves that not only strengthen the health system but promise groundbreaking care for patients. But it's been the culmination of 25 years of efforts — a strategic change following a low point when it was turning over a third of its workforce, notching one of the lowest patient satisfaction scores in the nation, hosting more medical students and residents than patients in beds, and maintaining about 30 days of operating cash, said Brenda Dykstra, the health system's chief strategy officer. A market research study helped spark the recalibration. Fast forward to today, and KU Health System enjoys nationally recognized specialty programs and record performance metrics. It brings a $7.9 billion annual economic impact, said Dykstra, citing a study the health system commissioned in 2023, before an expansion into Liberty. 'We care for patients from every county in Kansas, almost every county in the state of Missouri, every state in the nation, and almost 30 countries internationally,' Dykstra said. The greatest future challenges are space, recruiting workers, and finances, she said. 'We have a dream to become a destination for health care, and we think that we can make that a reality,' Dykstra said. Current highlights: The system's cancer program recently broke ground on a building on the main campus that will, for the first time, put researchers and clinicians in the same space. That proximity is critical to discovery, to bringing therapies to market, and to putting patients first, Dykstra said. Specifically, the building is for cellular therapy — the most advanced type of cancer treatment — which uses a body's own cells to fight cancer, yielding fewer side effects and better outcomes. 'We will see this transform the way that we deliver cancer treatment,' Dykstra said. Planning continues for a similar effort to put neuroresearchers and clinicians in one building to help advance discoveries in brain health, studying conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Geographically, KU Health System has made acquisitions in Olathe and Liberty to expand its footprint in the metro area, bringing academic knowledge and expertise closer to where people live. 'One of our biggest challenges is making sure we have capacity to grow,' Dykstra said. 'We have demand right now and a wait list that we can't satisfy.' The system has an economic development group focusing on its headquarters campus in Kansas City, Kan. The group ensures that the health system can influence what happens in the vicinity. CULTURE AS GLUE The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's efforts to galvanize cultural institutions in the heart of Kansas City also followed an epiphany. About a decade ago, the museum hired architects for its expansion. They noticed that the area boasted plenty of walkable institutions, but nobody walked. 'There were a lot of elements that I was just paying attention to for the first time,' recalled Julián Zugazagoitia, the museum's director and CEO. Now, as the streetcar route extends toward the art museums and the World Cup promises an influx of visitors, the area's cultural institutions hope to work together to capitalize on the walkable opportunities. The Nelson-Atkins has reached out to peers, exploring ways to encourage density and connectivity, as well as access and visibility. Specific to the World Cup, the museum plans a special exhibition about artists who also are athletes, Zugazagoitia said. Even as it explores near-term efforts, the Nelson-Atkins continues with projects intended to add fluidity, balance, capacity and interest to its campus. 'In a way, just like the hospitals, we are not satisfying all the demand that we have,' Zugazagoitia said. The museum's attendance has doubled during the past 10 years, its big events draw new people who become repeat visitors, and cuts to education budgets mean more demand for hosting school children. 'We are trying to do a museum that changes the perception of what a museum is, and that also makes it more your own museum — a sense of belonging,' Zugazagoitia said. THE PERSISTING LABOR QUESTION Panelists recognize that the workforce isn't static; local companies need a pipeline of qualified workers to continue thriving. 'It starts with workforce,' Blaesing said. 'It's a constant battle, and that is our only limiting factor.' Finding good people and training them within a company takes time, panelists said. The University of Kansas Health System has had to get creative to find enough workers. For example, it no longer requires a high school diploma for certain positions. However, it partnered with Kansas City Kansas Community College on a GED program and lets employees use work time to pursue their GEDs. Some have continued their education beyond that program, which can be transformative for families, Dykstra said. Industry needs to be in school buildings, from K-12 schools to colleges and universities, communicating the message that trades have great career potential, Blaesing said. Companies also must convince the adults in kids' lives that viable options include the trades, not just college, Jefferson said. The KCADC aims to put Kansas City on the radar of young workers. Among its efforts: Bringing influential architecture, engineering and construction educators from across the nation to Kansas City to see what it's like, the companies available, the innovation, and the career potential. The KCADC hopes such efforts will shift the balance in favor of Kansas City when students get offers from multiple places, Jefferson said. Artificial intelligence has been a buzz word lately, with alarm that it will replace human workers. But it should be viewed as a tool rather than a threat, said Zugazagoitia. 'Let's think, 'How can we use the tool and also bring knowledge to it so we are faster, we are better?'' he said. 'The talent we have around shines, because it is the talent that will control the AI tool.'
Global News
24-06-2025
- Business
- Global News
Cost of hosting FIFA World Cup in B.C. could be as high as $624M, province says
The cost of hosting seven FIFA World Cup matches next year remains on track, the B.C. government said in a release on Tuesday. The updated range for gross core costs of planning, staging and hosting the matches in Vancouver is now estimated to be between $532 million and $624 million, according to information provided by the province. The province estimates the portion it will contribute will be between $85 million and $145 million. 'Gross cost estimates increased as plans developed this year, particularly for safety and security and transportation,' the province said. The province says the costs of the event will be offset by estimated revenues of between $448 million and $478 million, which is higher than it originally estimated in 2024. 'After taking into account estimated revenues and recoveries, the Province estimates the updated total net cost of planning, staging and hosting seven FIFA World Cup 26 matches in Vancouver to be within a planning range of $85 million to $145 million, a similar range to last year,' the province said in the background document. Story continues below advertisement Meanwhile, the City of Vancouver's costs are estimated to be between $261 million and $281 million. However, with the addition of public sector service providers, including TransLink or health services — estimated to be between $54 million and $64 million — the total costs for the City of Vancouver could be between $315 million and $345 million. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy This would include integrated public safety and security within the hosting area; the provision of team training sites; the FIFA Fan Festival; brand protection, traffic and stadium zone management, and other required municipal, regional and provincial public sector services. 'The City of Vancouver's direct costs, including security, transportation, the FIFA Fan Festival and upcoming milestones remain on track, with no major changes from 2024's budget projections, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said in a statement. The FIFA World Cup 26 is less than one year away. 'Working with Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh peoples helps us deliver an even better FIFA World Cup reflective of where we are, and who we are,' Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport Spencer Chandra Herbert said. The province estimates that hosting seven matches will result in more than one million additional out-of-province visitors, generating over $1 billion in spending. It is also estimated to generate more than 18,000 jobs. Story continues below advertisement FIFA's economic impact assessment covers the period June 2023 to August 2026 and estimates that preparing for and hosting the tournament could contribute $1.7 billion in economic benefits for B.C. That includes a $980-million increase to GDP and $610 million in labour income. 3:19 FIFA is bringing 2026 congress to Vancouver Renovations and upgrades at the Killarney Park training site are underway, along with renovations and upgrades to BC Place, the province said. The City of Vancouver is planning for the FIFA Fan Festival.
Vancouver Sun
24-06-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
New FIFA World Cup hosting costs revealed by B.C. put price at up to $624 million
If you build it, they will come back. That's how provincial and Vancouver city officials are billing the upcoming FIFA World Cup — along with the hefty hosting bill — pointing to studies that show first-time visitors to B.C. are likely to return four times over their lifetime. The overall costs of planning, staging and hosting seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will cost the province between $532 million and $624 million, a total that will be split between several jurisdictions. The City of Vancouver's projected costs will be between $261 million and $281 million, a modest bump from the initial projections of $246 million to $276 million from April of 2024. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. PavCo, the crown corporation that runs B.C. Place , is undergoing retrofitting and renovations that will run between $171 million to $181 million. FIFA also requires that the host city provide services beyond its direct jurisdiction, such as public-sector transportation, ambulance and other health services, estimated in the range of $54 million to $64 million. 'We're gearing up to leverage the opportunities for B.C.'s tourism sector. Welcoming fans and visitors from around the globe before, during and after the tournament means real benefits for local tourism businesses and the skilled professionals who power our vibrant industry,' said Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of B.C. 'We're looking forward to showcasing unforgettable B.C. experiences and inspiring visitors to keep returning.' The gross costs are expected to be offset by $448 million to $478 million of estimated revenues and recoveries, also higher than the 2024 estimates. An assessment by FIFA claims the time preparing for and hosting the tournament — from June 2023 to August 2026 — could contribute $1.7 billion in economic benefits for B.C., including a $980-million increase to GDP and $610 million in labour income. The City of Vancouver is projecting revenues from the major events municipal and regional district tax to be in the range of $250 million to $260 million, as well as an additional $52 million to $60 million including commercial revenues, facility rental fees. 'The City of Vancouver͛s direct costs, including security, transportation, the FIFA Fan Festival and upcoming milestones remain on track, with no major changes from 2024's budget projections,' said Vancouver mayor Ken Sim 'With less than a year to go until the world's biggest sporting event arrives in Vancouver, we͛re working hard to deliver a safe, memorable experience for residents, fans and visitors. We remain committed to managing costs responsibly while maximizing the long-term benefits for our community.' The updated costs reflect the changing security precautions and refinement of the FIFA Fan Festival, as well as the shifting the location of the training site and team base camp from Memorial South Park to UBC. After the World Cup, B.C. estimates more than one million additional out-of-province visitors will visit B.C. before 2031, generating more than $1 billion in additional visitor spending and creating more than 18,000 jobs. More to come …
New York Post
12-06-2025
- Sport
- New York Post
Victor Cruz delivers bold prediction for Giants in 2025: ‘We have a good team'
Victor Cruz stood in the middle of Liberty State Park in Jersey City, N.J., on Wednesday with the Manhattan skyline in the background. On the 84-degree day, the former Giants wide receiver and Super Bowl winner was hard pressed to miss throwing on the pads and helmet for mini camp. 'I'm out here in this heat in the suit, and I don't miss it. Let alone being out there with half pads and shorts,' Cruz said. The Super Bowl champion was on hand for an event celebrating the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, but naturally, the conversation eventually turned to the Giants with minicamp starting next week. Though Cruz doesn't miss having to sweat in the burning New Jersey sun, he did get a sense of nostalgia after a recent visit to the Giants' facility in East Rutherford. 'I started to get the bug back. I started stretching. I was like, hold on, Vic, what are you doing?' Cruz said. 'But being back there and missing the guys and being in the locker room and just having that energy back a little bit. It's a little nostalgic for me.' Cruz won't be suiting up anytime soon, but the former star wide receiver was somewhat optimistic about the Giants' fortunes going into 2025, predicting that Big Blue would be above .500 this upcoming season. 3 Victor Cruz discussed the Giants on Wednesday. NYPostSports/Instagram 'I think we have a good team. I think for the first time, [head coach Brian Daboll] has a team in a draft that you could feel he wrapped his arms around. These are his guys and we'll see how he develops them and, and get them ready to play.' The Giants took edge rusher Abdul Carter with the No. 3 overall pick and traded back into the first round to select quarterback Jaxson Dart at No. 25. Cruz liked the idea of Dart being able to learn from both veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, describing the former as the 'ultimate pro's pro' and the latter as having a 'gunslinger sort of mentality.' 3 Victor Cruz makes a catch for the Giants in 2011. Paul J. Bereswill for The New Yo 'I think Jaxson could learn some things for both of those things,' Cruz said. Cruz emceed the 2026 World Cup event, with a number of local sports stars and politicians on hand, to mark the impending global soccer tournament, which will feature eight World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium, including the final. 3 Jaxson Dart throws a pass during the Giants' rookie mincamp on May 10, 2025. Robert Sabo for NY Post Liberty State Park will also serve as the official site of the FIFA Fan Festival New York New Jersey. And Cruz expected the festivities to be 'iconic. 'I've obviously played in some big games, some big moments. But this is another level. We're talking about the biggest sporting event in the world coming to the New York-New Jersey region,' he said. 'And this very park will be the place in the country where fans can catch every single one of the 104 matches – right here on these grounds, with views of the Statue of Liberty, and all the vibes that are happening. It's going to be incredible. It's going to be iconic.'
USA Today
11-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
One year out from 2026 FIFA World Cup, NJ ready to be 'soccer central worldwide'
One year out from 2026 FIFA World Cup, NJ ready to be 'soccer central worldwide' 3-minute read Show Caption Hide Caption Phil Murphy talks 2026 FIFA World Cup at NJ budget address During his 2026 New Jersey budget address, Gov. Phil Murphy discussed the upcoming FIFA World Cup plans. It's official. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off at East Rutherford's MetLife Stadium in one year. To celebrate the last 365 days of preparation, Gov. Phil Murphy and the regional host committee, including CEO Alex Lasry and board chair Tammy Murphy, were at Liberty State Park in Jersey City Wednesday morning to outline the FIFA Fan Festival experience set to take place next summer. Joined by fan favorites like Mr. and Mrs. Met, Giants legend Victor Cruz and representatives from most of the region's professional sports teams, a mini festival complete with food trucks and activities for kids was set up to show, on a small scale, what is coming in 2026. With lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty serving as a backdrop, the park will be the premier fan festival during all 40 days of next summer's global event. More than 100 matches, including the ones scheduled to be played at MetLife will be broadcast live for fans to enjoy along with entertainment presented by LiveNation, food and other cultural exhibits that represent the Garden State and our neighbors across the Hudson River. What did NJ officials say? Gov. Phil Murphy said that between this year's Club World Cup and the 2026 World Cup, the region will be 'soccer central worldwide, globally, for the next 15 months' and said there is a commitment to the legacy of the sport. 'MLS was born out of the 1996 World Cup. I can only imagine what will be born out of this World Cup and most importantly in the communities in the region on both sides of the Hudson,' he said. Lasry said Liberty State Park will serve as the 'central gathering place for fans from across the world' and explained it will be the largest and most visible fan festival of the tournament. Officials expect tens of thousands of fans to attend the festival during each of its 39 days and have partnered with LiveNation and DPS to produce the programming which will include concerts on rest days. Among those fans will be 'all six Murphys,' according to first lady Tammy Murphy. More: What has NJ spent — so far, at least — to fund the 2026 FIFA World Cup? 2025 FIFA Club World Cup gives NJ a preview of 2026 Fans get a little taste of the global soccer experience starting this weekend at MetLife when the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off. This year's tournament features club teams — professional teams from leagues around the world — as opposed to national teams that will compete in the 2026 World Cup. It's unclear whether the immigration and border security initiatives of the Trump administration will affect the tournaments. Among the teams to already qualify is Iran, which is one of the countries included in Trump's latest full travel ban. President Donald Trump did attend the Club World Cup draw in December and said he "will try to be" at the tournament. He has hosted FIFA President Gianni Infantino at his Mar-a-Lago Club and the White House. Infantino also attended Trump's second inauguration. Murphy said Wednesday that his understanding is that there will be exceptions for big sporting events and this is the 'biggest in the world.' He went on to say there is a 'long road to travel' between now and when the tournament starts but that all of the teams that qualify will be able to play. When asked about concerns tourists may have about the presence of ICE and comments made by Vice President J.D. Vance about visitors, Murphy said he 'can't speak' for them but is 'hugely optimistic this is going to be a blowout success and a safe World Cup.' 'Based on all the vibrations I hear… this is going to be done in a first class welcoming way,' he said. Lasry said the host committee's 'concern and goal' is that everyone that comes to the tournament has an incredible time. Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@
