Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City has been awarded a new grant aimed at boosting local economic opportunities, especially as the city gears up for the global spotlight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The National League of Cities (NLC) gave the $20,000 award as part of its third Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid award program. The Gates Foundation supports this program on a national level. Kansas City is one of only 12 cities in the U.S. that will be part of this competitive six-month initiative. It will get money, expert help, and technical assistance.
“As Kansas City prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026, we’re committed to ensuring that every corner and zip code in our community benefits from this historic moment,” said Mayor Lucas. “The Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant to KC BizCare will help level the playing field for small businesses and entrepreneurs by providing essential business readiness training. When the world’s eyes are on Kansas City, we want them to see a city where opportunity is truly accessible to all.”
The project will focus on businesses that are anticipated to see increased activity during the World Cup, such as restaurants, outdoor eating, liquor licensing, and short-term rentals. KC BizCare wants to help new and existing business owners stay ahead of the game by offering focused business preparedness training, especially in sectors related to hospitality and entertainment. The money will also help city administration work together better across departments to make services better for small business owners.
“I suggested staff to pursue this opportunity because economic mobility must be a reality for every Kansas Citian,” said Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw. “This grant allows us to remove barriers for small businesses and entrepreneurs in a pivotal moment for our city. As we prepare for the global spotlight of World Cup 2026, we’re making strategic investments that will position our communities to grow and thrive well beyond the tournament.”
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Along with the money, Kansas City is going to a national economic mobility conference this October with other towns who are taking part. At this conference, cities will share ideas and plans. The NLC’s program has already given out more than $350,000 in training and money to two previous cohorts.
The current award cycle lasts until the end of December 2025. Kansas City might potentially get more funding to keep working on its economic mobility goal after the World Cup if it gets involved. The goal of this project is to get local businesses ready for a time when they will be in the spotlight internationally and to set the stage for long-term, inclusive growth in the years to come.
