Kansas Manufacturing Solutions Joins KC BioHub Consortium Awarded $38.1 Million to Advance Regional Biomanufacturing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Shawnee, KS, July 21, 2026] Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS) is proud to join BioNexus KC, MRIGlobal and more than 115 regional partners in celebrating a $38.1 million investment that will strengthen the Kansas City region's position as a national leader in biomanufacturing.

The KC BioHub consortium received $33.5 million through the U.S. Economic Development Administration's (EDA) Tech Hubs Program, along with $4 million in matching support from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Kansas and Missouri legislatures, and a $600,000 social impact investment from the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation. The four-year investment will advance biomanufacturing innovation, workforce development and industry growth throughout the region. The award builds upon the KC BioHub's designation as a federally recognized EDA Tech Hub in 2023 and positions the region to compete for future federal investments of up to $150 million.

As a consortium partner, Kansas Manufacturing Solutions will lead BioSupply Crossroads, one of five projects funded through the award. BioSupply Crossroads is focused on strengthening America's biomanufacturing supply chain by bringing production of critical materials back to the United States, connecting manufacturers with the resources and partnerships needed to expand capacity and diversify into this growing industry.

"This investment represents far more than funding, it is a commitment to building a stronger, more resilient domestic biomanufacturing ecosystem," said Tiffany Stovall, CEO and Center Director of Kansas Manufacturing Solutions. "We are honored to stand alongside BioNexus KC, MRIGlobal and our fellow consortium partners as we help manufacturers innovate, grow and compete in one of the nation's most important emerging industries."

KMS serves manufacturers across Kansas by providing consulting, technical assistance, workforce development and strategic growth services. Through its leadership of BioSupply Crossroads and its participation in the broader KC BioHub consortium, KMS will help connect manufacturers with the resources, expertise and partnerships needed to expand capacity and strengthen regional supply chains supporting the life sciences and biomanufacturing sectors.

"This award demonstrates what is possible when industry, research institutions, higher education, nonprofit organizations and economic development partners work together toward a common vision," said Danica Rome, Chief Operating Officer of Kansas Manufacturing Solutions. "The collaboration behind the KC BioHub is extraordinary, and we are proud to contribute our manufacturing expertise to help ensure the success of this initiative."

For Kansas manufacturers, this investment opens new pathways to diversify into high growth markets, strengthen supply chains and play a role in building a more resilient, competitive biomanufacturing industry here at home.

About Kansas Manufacturing Solutions

Kansas Manufacturing Solutions is the official Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center for Kansas, dedicated to helping manufacturers grow, improve productivity, strengthen their workforce and increase competitiveness through expert consulting, training and strategic partnerships. By leveraging a statewide network of subject matter experts and partner organizations, KMS delivers customized solutions that help manufacturers solve challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

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If you would like more information about this topic, please call Danica Rome at 913-967-1223 or email drome@wearekms.com.