KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City is launching a five-week business marketplace at Union Station’s Grand Exhibition Hall this summer as the city hosts matches for the FIFA World Cup.
The marketplace will be open from June 11 through July 12, Thursday through Sunday.
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Organizers said the free marketplace will bring together a curated mix of Kansas City-based small businesses, entrepreneurs, artists and cultural performers.
“We’re creating pathways for small businesses and creatives to step into high-visibility spaces and grow in ways that might not have been possible otherwise,” said Nia Webster, assistant director of the Neighborhood Services Department.
The marketplace is part of Open Doors!, a city-led storefront activation initiative that connects small businesses, artists and property owners to create vibrant, community-driven retail experiences across Downtown Kansas City.
In addition to product sales, organizers said the marketplace will feature ongoing programming designed to highlight Kansas City’s culture, creativity and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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“The City of Entrepreneurs marketplace reflects our commitment to connecting Kansas City’s small businesses to meaningful opportunity,” said Tracey Lewis, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri.
“By leveraging a global moment like the World Cup, we are creating pathways for local entrepreneurs to grow, reach new audiences and be part of the city’s broader economic momentum.”
Local businesses and brand sponsors interested in participating can apply here.
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