Greater Manhattan Economic Partnership

06/03/2026

Greater Manhattan’s innovation story just gained another national proof point.

Kansas State University was named on the National Academy of Inventors' 2025 list of the Top 100 U.S. Universities Granted U.S. Utility Patents, with 18 utility patents credited to the Kansas State University Research Foundation.

That matters because patents are more than research milestones. They are signals of ideas moving toward real-world application, including new products, companies, jobs, partnerships, and investment.

For our region, this recognition reinforces something important: innovation in Greater Manhattan is not theoretical. It is happening here, supported by K-State research, NBAF, animal health, bioscience, engineering, agriculture, and a growing network of industry and institutional partners.

This is another credible reminder that Greater Manhattan is not just preparing for the future economy. We are helping create it.

05/31/2026

What keeps talent connected to a community?

Jonathan Rivers’ story shows how Manhattan supports both career growth and community involvement. Through his work with CivicPlus and Green Apple Bikes MHK, he’s part of a system where people can contribute across sectors, not just within a job.

It’s a reminder that in Manhattan, talent doesn’t just work here. It runs the community.

Read the full story: https://madeformanhattan.org/manhattanite_stories/jonathan-rivers/

05/29/2026

PTMW, Inc. is hiring in advanced manufacturing right now in Greater Manhattan.

This Manhattan-based company is adding to its team, with roles tied directly to precision machining and component manufacturing that support aerospace, defense, and industrial equipment.

For our region, this matters.

It signals continued demand for skilled trades, reinforces the strength of our manufacturing sector, and creates real opportunities for individuals building long-term careers here.

If you work with students, job seekers, or skilled talent, this is a connection worth making.

View current openings: https://www.ptmw.com/employment/

05/28/2026

Kansas State University is continuing to invest in the future of food and agriculture.

The Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation will be renamed the Western Star Global Grain and Food Center, recognizing a legacy of leadership and investment that continues to shape the industry today.

Beyond the name, this project represents a major step forward for research, education, and workforce development. The new center will support advances in food product development, food safety, and food security while creating space for collaboration between students, researchers, and industry partners.

Investments like this strengthen the region’s position in agriculture and food systems while helping prepare the next generation of talent for careers in a global industry.

Read more about the Western Star Global Grain and Food Center: https://ksufoundation.org/impact/release/kansas-state-university-global-center-for-grain-and-food-innovation-to-be-renamed-western-star-global-grain-and-food-center/

05/26/2026

Manhattan is taking a deliberate, data-driven approach to growing its visitor economy.

A recent sports tourism study confirms what many already see on the ground: the region is well-positioned to attract and host a wider range of events.

This is more than event recruitment. It is a strategy to generate consistent demand, support local businesses, and introduce new visitors to the community.

From hotel stays and local spending to long-term exposure and return visits, the impact extends well beyond the event itself.

Read more about how this strategy is shaping future growth: https://www.manhattan.org/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/314

05/22/2026

Site selection decisions move faster when information is clear and easy to access.

Greater Manhattan’s sites and buildings platform brings together available properties across the region in one coordinated view. From industrial sites ready for development to commercial opportunities positioned for growth, each listing reflects ongoing collaboration between local partners.

Explore the inventory, understand the context behind each site, and see how the region is working together to support business investment.

🔗 greatermanhattan.org/sites-and-buildings

05/21/2026

K-State’s latest research data tells a clear story about where this region is headed.

Kansas State University reached $264.9M in annual R&D expenditures, growing more than 21% year over year and climbing into the top 15% of research institutions nationally.

What that means for Greater Manhattan:
• Proven capacity to deliver large-scale research
• Continued momentum in key sectors like agriculture, biosecurity, and engineering
• A fully built ecosystem supported by federal partnerships and infrastructure

This is how a research environment scales with purpose and consistency.

Read more: https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/2026/03/kstate-herd-ranking-research-expenditure-growth.html

05/18/2026

A new chapter for recreation in Manhattan is officially underway.

Steel and Pipe Supply Ballpark at CiCo Park is now open, featuring four new turf fields designed for both baseball and softball. The complex adds to the city’s growing investment in recreational amenities that support residents, families, and visitors.

The project is part of the voter-approved quality of life sales tax initiative and reflects continued progress in strengthening community infrastructure across the region.

With additional improvements still underway at CiCo Park, including new tennis courts and a future playground, this investment will serve as a long-term hub for local athletics and community activity.

Read more:

It’s time to pitch like a pro and swing like a superstar.

05/15/2026

Workforce challenges are being solved in real time by employers in our region.

Dymax Inc. in Wamego is taking a practical approach to one of the most common barriers to employment: childcare. By enhancing a Dependent Care FSA with employer matching, they are creating meaningful financial support for working families.

The result is stronger retention, improved reliability, and a more stable workforce.

This is what a proactive labor market looks like. Employers identifying constraints and building solutions that can scale across the region.

Read how this model is working and what it means for workforce strategy in Greater Manhattan: https://greatermanhattan.org/announcement/manufacturers-childcare-support-model-transforming-workforce

05/13/2026

Manhattan’s employment has reached a new high, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and signaling a stronger economic trajectory for the region.

This growth reflects more than a short-term rebound. After years of relatively flat employment trends, Manhattan is seeing momentum tied to real projects, business investment, and job creation.

That progress is showing up across the region through population growth, housing demand, retail activity, and a stronger local tax base.

For Greater Manhattan, the takeaway is clear: sustained economic growth comes from coordinated planning, business support, and continued investment in the assets that help the region compete.

Read the full article to see what is driving this momentum and what comes next:
https://www.manhattan.org/m/newsflash/home/detail/311