Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City is preparing to turn one of its most recognizable landmarks into a showcase for local ambition as the city looks ahead to the summer of 2026, when FIFA World Cup matches are expected to bring a surge of visitors to the region.
In partnership with the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri, the city plans to launch a five-week business marketplace inside Union Station’s Grand Exhibition Hall, placing homegrown entrepreneurs and creatives in the middle of what could be one of the area’s biggest tourism moments in years.
Set to run from Thursday through Sunday between June 11 and July 12, the marketplace will be free and open to the public.
Organizers say it will feature a carefully selected group of Kansas City small businesses, artists, entrepreneurs and cultural performers, all brought together under the broader City of Entrepreneurs initiative. The goal is not only to welcome visitors, but to ensure local businesses have a visible role in the economic energy surrounding the international event.
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Union Station is expected to become more than just a gathering place. Plans call for the Grand Exhibition Hall to be transformed into a lively retail and cultural hub where visitors and residents can shop, explore and experience a wide range of local talent.
Businesses involved are expected to span multiple industries, including retail, service-based concepts and performance-centered experiences, while programming throughout the run will spotlight Kansas City’s creative identity and entrepreneurial spirit.
“Open Doors! and the City of Entrepreneurs marketplace are about expanding access to opportunity,” said Nia Webster, Assistant Director of the Neighborhood Services Department.
“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.
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The summer activation also builds on the momentum of Open Doors!, the city-led storefront activation effort aimed at connecting small businesses, artists and property owners to create vibrant retail experiences across downtown Kansas City. Officials say the Union Station marketplace is a natural extension of that work, using a global spotlight to deepen support for local enterprise.
“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 taking part can apply at www.repurs.com/unionstation.
