A Vision FOR THE WICHITA BUSINESS COMMUNITY

It’s easy to overlook the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s office building when it shares a sidewalk on Douglas Avenue with the city’s most famous – and somewhat controversial – piece of architecture.

Despite a recent overhaul in the landscaping surrounding the pale brick building, it’s just that…a building. Two stories. Small offices. Conference rooms around every corner. Furniture so out of style it’s now back in style.

But inside this ordinary building extraordinary work is being done, and it’s shaping the future of Wichita’s business community.

“The Chamber is a testament to its members. The people who walk in and out of these doors everyday – business owners, organizations, CEOs, government leaders, you name it – can visualize Wichita’s potential. They see innovation, collaboration and elevation for growth,” said John Rolfe, president and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This isn’t anything new. The Chamber has been the catalyst, convener and go-to resource for the city long before most of these surrounding buildings were built.”

To see The Chamber’s vision for the future, you need to see what it has accomplished in the past.

The Chamber has been a vital part of the business community in Wichita for more than 100 years as an advocate for businesses, a resource for entrepreneurs and a driver for economic growth and development in the region.

In the past, aircraft manufacturing in Wichita was as prominent as it is today. Wichita also had textile mills, meatpacking plants, grain elevators and oil refining, and an endless list of other exports.

“If America needed it, Wichita made it,” Rolfe said. “Everyone thinks aviation, and it is, but it’s so much more.”

Sending Wichita To Space

Manufacturing is still one of Wichita’s biggest assets, but the goals are higher and more diverse.

Blue Origin and SpaceX, two of the biggest names in commercial space exploration, have visited Wichita in recent years. Numerous manufacturing businesses in Wichita already make a variety of parts, components and technology that have made it out of this atmosphere.

Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita’s largest employer, has worked with NASA in the past on planetary science missions. The company also has a contract with NASA to carry back samples from Mars in 2026.

“Bringing space manufacturing to Wichita is not just a visionary goal, it’s a strategic imperative,” Rolfe said. “With its highly skilled workforce and advanced manufacturing capabilities, Wichita has the potential to become a key player in the new space economy.”

Back on Earth, The Chamber works to attract new businesses and industries to the area, as well as retain and expand existing companies. Through partnerships with local government and economic development organizations, The Chamber has helped bring major employers to the area from diverse industries.

According to data by the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State University, the Wichita metropolitan area (identified as Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey and Sumner counties) is expected to have one of the strongest growths within the state by the end of 2023, adding 3,185 jobs. Production, manufacturing and the aerospace industry will see the biggest growth, according to research.

“It’s about creating a culture of innovation in the region and a thriving business climate,” Rolfe said.

The Second Largest Capital Investment In Kansas History

Back in February, Integra Technologies announced plans to invest $1.8 billion in a large-scale semiconductor facility in the Wichita region. This is the second largest private investment in Kansas history. The facility will establish Wichita as integral to the national effort to restore semiconductor manufacturing capacity and strengthen national security.

The 1 million-square-foot plant and headquarters will create nearly 2,000 high-paying jobs averaging $51,000 in wages over the next five years. A Wichita State University economic impact study estimates an additional 3,161 jobs will be generated by suppliers, construction labor and other service positions.

“Integra’s investment is further proof that we have put Kansas on the map, establishing our state on the forefront of innovation and national security,” said Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

“Kansas is doubling down on its commitment to be at the forefront of this emerging and innovative industry,” said David Toland, Kansas Secretary of Commerce. “Integra’s plans matched perfectly with the state’s push to diversify our economy and we couldn’t be happier they chose to make this investment right in their backyard.”

Integra has been approved for Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion (APEX) incentives, a state economic incentive program that was led, championed and advocated for by The Chamber. This program, along with many other legislative agenda items by The Chamber’s government relations department continue to strengthen the region’s business incentive and regulatory climate.

“Integra’s expansion plans will address recent supply chain issues that impact everyone,” Rolfe said. “It will continue to strengthen advanced manufacturing right here in south central Kansas.”

Bringing Business Downtown

Wichita State University, WSU Tech and the University of Kansas are moving forward with plans to build a 470,000-square-foot, $300 million biomedical campus in the heart of downtown Wichita that will bring a significant boost to the local economy and the healthcare industry in the region.

The biomedical facility is designed to be a hub for medical innovation, collaboration and technology, while providing training and educational opportunities for students, healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs.

“Establishing a biomedical center in downtown Wichita will be a transformative step for the city, bringing together world-class researchers, cutting-edge technology and top-tier healthcare professionals,” Rolfe said. “By fostering collaboration and innovation, this center will not only improve the health of our community, but also drive economic growth and create new opportunities for the next generation of healthcare leaders.”

Part of next year’s state budget, already signed by Governor Kelly, includes $142 million toward the new biomedical center.

Riverfront Master Plan

One of the most ambitious changes coming to downtown Wichita is the Riverfront Master Plan, which is also one of The Chamber’s strategic priorities for improving quality of place in the city.

This comprehensive strategy aims to revitalize and transform the city’s downtown riverfront area into a vibrant, thriving destination for residents and visitors alike. The plan covers a 4-mile stretch on the Arkansas River and its surrounding area. Main goals of the plan are to improve public access to the riverfront, create more recreational opportunities and spur economic development.

Key Elements of the Riverfront Master Plan:

• Development of New Public Spaces.

Envisioning the creation of new parks and plazas along the riverfront, which will be connected by a network of trails and pathways. These new public spaces will provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and events, as well as spaces for people to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the river.

• Expansion of the Riverfront Trail System. Expanding the existing riverfront, which will provide more opportunities for walking, jogging and biking along the river.

• Mixed-use Development.

Encouraging the development of new buildings along the riverfront, which will provide commercial, residential and office space.

• Advocacy at the Local, State and Federal Level.

“The Wichita Riverfront Master Plan is more than just a blueprint for development. It’s a roadmap for creating a sustainable and inclusive community,” Rolfe said. “By leveraging the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Arkansas River, this plan has the power to revitalize our downtown, attract new investment and improve the quality of life for all Wichitans. Its success will depend on our willingness to collaborate, innovate and think boldly about the future of our city.”

One of the most significant impacts The Chamber has on the business community is its advocacy efforts. They work closely with local, state and federal officials to ensure that policies are in place that support a strong and prosperous business climate.

“By advocating for policies and initiatives that promote economic growth, job creation and a strong business climate, The Chamber is able to amplify the voice of local and regional businesses. We recognize that a strong and vibrant business community is key to the quality of life in the Wichita region,” said Toni Porter, The Chamber’s vice president of government relations. “The greatest expense for most businesses, after compensating employees and covering their benefits, is the cost associated with taxes and government regulations. The Chamber’s number one government relations goal is to successfully advance the business interests of the state’s largest metro area.”

Providing a business-friendly environment for companies to be in position to grow is critical. During the legislative session, The Chamber aggressively pursues priorities that benefit its members and business community. The Chamber provides frequent policy updates to its members and regularly meets with and educates policymakers on issues, with numerous opportunities for members to interact with elected officials.

These political and governmental connections with the business community create strong economic and cultural growth.

“Every business owner needs to be proactive and communicate to elected officials what is important to his or her business,” Porter said. “The Chamber provides countless opportunities for business owners and leaders to make those connections.”

Small Business Is Big Business

Another important role of The Chamber is to provide resources and support to entrepreneurs and small businesses, which make up nearly 85 percent of its membership.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Wichita’s economy. They embody the entrepreneurial spirit that has made our city a hub of innovation and growth. They are essential to maintaining a diverse and resilient business ecosystem,” Rolfe said. “By supporting small businesses, we are investing in the future of our community, ensuring that Wichita remains a great place to live, work and do business for generations to come.”

The Chamber offers a variety of programs and services designed to help businesses grow and succeed, which include:

• Networking Opportunities: Hosts nearly 150 events and networking opportunities throughout the year, including the Small Business Awards, which recognizes outstanding small businesses in the region.

• Business Education: Offers a range of educational programs, workshops and resources aimed at helping small business owners develop new skills and strategies to grow their businesses.

• Access to Capital: Provides information and resources to help small businesses access the capital they need to start and grow their businesses.

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Promotes a more inclusive business community by advocating for policies that support diversity, equity and inclusion and provide education and resources to businesses on these issues.

“The Chamber plays a vital role in supporting and strengthening our city’s business community by helping businesses of all sizes and sectors grow, thrive and succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy,” Rolfe said. “Whether it’s advocating for policies that promote economic growth, providing networking and professional development opportunities, or connecting businesses with resources and expertise, The Chamber is a powerful force for driving innovation, business and prosperity in Wichita.”

“Traveling abroad with my BU406 class was one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had at Washburn. I learned so much about international business and networking through the coursework. The experience taught me a lot about myself professionally and personally; I was challenged and greatly rewarded. Getting to experience another culture first hand is amazing. I think all students should travel abroad to learn more about themselves and others.”

The world is yours. We’ll help you prepare. washburn.edu/business bba@washburn.edu

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