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We’ve all heard the phrase “on the cloud,” but what does that really mean?Many of the apps we use every day, like Google, Facebook, YouTube, and even popular online games, depend on powerful computers that store and send the photos, videos, and messages we see on screen.Those computers are housed...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 2, 2026CONTACT:Casey WoodsExecutive DirectorEmporia Main Streetdirector@emporiamainstreet.comwww.emporiamainstreet.com620-340-6430Brad KraftVice PresidentRegional Development AssociationBKraft@EmporiaRDA.orgwww.emporiarda.org620-343-8860EMPORIA, Kansas — Local and regional economic development partners are expressing excitement surrounding the proposed Flint Hills Digital Campus, a large-scale digital infrastructure and technology initiative currently in the planning stages in Emporia and Lyon County.The...
Kansas built America’s foundation. Now it can power our nation’s future through data centers.
Apr 16 2026Kansas is not a state that waits for opportunities to find us. Our communities built the foundations that move the rest of the country and have always played a central role in powering the American economy.During my time in the state Legislature, I learned that our greatest successes come when...
The historic Emporia Gazette building is preparing to reopen its doors, only this time it will welcome people in as the Gazette Collective, a modern mixed-use space. Rick and Colleen Mitchell of Mitchell-Markowitz Construction purchased the building in 2022 and have worked to preserve its charm while breathing new life...
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Opens in Emporia, Bringing Conferencing and Large-Scale Accommodation
Feb 24 2026Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott recently soft-opened in Emporia, Kansas, bringing a hotel attached to a conference center to the region for the first time in 15 years. While there are multiple hotels in Emporia, this is the only one with a conference center directly attached, making it easier...
If you want to start a company in 2026, visit Emporia Main Street to get the tools you need to build your business plan, apply for loans, and network with potential customers and vendors. Emporia Main Street works with entrepreneurs at all levels of development, from residents forming their ideas...
Residents and business owners across Emporia have access to one of the best community banks in the region. Lyon County State Bank (LCSB) has been a staple of the area since 1913 and continues to serve customers with the same care as it did 112 years ago.“Our staff is made...
Vektek is a global leader in hydraulic and pneumatic clamping devices based in Emporia. Since 1986, the company has worked with automotive manufacturers, agricultural equipment producers, and other firms worldwide to improve their operations. Not only is Vektek a trusted firm by its clients, but it was also named Kansas...
Residents and visitors traveling through Emporia, Kansas, can refuel at Gravel City Roasters at 715 Commercial Street. Joe Corn has owned the coffee shop since 2023, but has enjoyed making delicious drinks and treats there since 2010.“As a business owner, this town has been really good to me,” says Corn...
Hetlinger Helps Disabled Emporians Find Work
Jul 29 2025Hetlinger Developmental Services Helps Emporians With Disabilities Find Meaningful WorkPeople with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) can find a sense of community and work opportunities through Hetlinger Developmental Services. The organization offers employment support and day services to help people who would otherwise have difficulty finding a job.“We know that...
Families in Emporia, Kansas, can choose a local assisted living facility for their loved ones who need long-term care, memory care, or respite services. Sunflower Care Homes has room for 12 residents and ensures that at least two employees are on site at all times.“I am very proud of the...
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Communications Solutions, LLC (CSLLC) will expand its operations to Emporia, Kansas, creating 250 new jobs.
“Our partnership with CSLCC, which will create 250 new jobs in Emporia, is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and strong economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development announced that the agency is awarding $4 million in cooperative agreements to 17 organizations under its Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge program.
RPIC provides planning support, technical assistance, and training to encourage placemaking activities in rural communities. Funds can be used to help...
Demolition on Renewable Energy Groups’ partially constructed biodiesel facility may begin soon.
During the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas Board of Directors’ monthly meeting Friday, President Kent Heerman announced that demolition of the facility in southeast Emporia may begin as soon as Tuesday, weather permitting. An exact...
Kent Heermann announced his intention to retire as the president of the Emporia Regional Development Association during a meeting of the board Friday morning.
Heermann will remain in the role he has held for more than 27 years until the first quarter of 2022 in order to give the...
A $6.8 million development project on a portion of the DeBauge-Krueger tract, near 18th Avenue and Graphic Arts Road, passed the first round of approval from the Regional Development Association, Friday morning.
The development would bring in a QuikTrip convenience store and development of a new access road connecting...
The Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas voted to move forward with expansion plans for a staple Emporia business Friday morning.
Dynamic Distribution — which is classified as a separate business entity from Dynamic Discs, LLC — will now set its sights toward moving into the soon-to-be-vacated Detroit...
Governor Laura Kelly, local legislators and other members of the community helped Simmons Pet Food, Inc. celebrate the opening of its new 208,000-square foot Flexible Packaging facility in Emporia with a ribbon cutting Thursday morning.
The $60 million expansion is expected to create approximately 100 new jobs immediately, with...
Michelin today completed the acquisition of Camso, under the terms announced on July 12, 2018 and after obtaining all of the necessary approvals for the transaction. A total consideration of US$1.36 billion was paid for the acquisition.
Reporting net sales of US$1 billion, Camso has been designing, manufacturing and...