Kelly administration kicks off creation of new economic development strategy for Kansas

Gov. Laura Kelly pledged to work with Kansas industries and economic development specialists Monday to craft the first comprehensive blueprint for hastening statewide business growth since the 1980s.

The project coordinated by the Kansas Department of Commerce and the McKinsey consulting firm has the central goal of analyzing the state’s economy, outlining a plan for seizing opportunities and shaping implementation a development strategy to advance such economic indicators as population growth, labor participation and gross domestic product.

“It’s been more than 30 years since the state had a formal strategy to accelerate economic development,” Kelly said. “The economic challenges facing Kansas require innovative solutions and a well-coordinated approach.”