“For Momentum 2027 … our initiatives were around getting this building completed and we’re there, which is great. Now it’s activating this space, bringing in those startups.” Stephanie Moran Senior Vice President, InnovationGreater Topeka Partnership building momentum through innovation Innovation accelerates momentum. In downtown Topeka, the now-opened Link Innovation Labs supports startups, researchers, small businesses, and industry partners with lab and office space, coworking areas, conference rooms, and a pitch and event space. This major investment in Topeka’s future and our role in the Animal Health Corridor fuels our momentum as a destination for innovation across agtech, biotech, and advanced manufacturing. This video was made in partnership with India Yarborough, Local… Read More
Continue ReadingDowntown Topeka Master Plan
“All of that activity is in alignment with the goals of Momentum 2027 and DTI, and we’re seeing them come to fruition. Those are all things that make a successful downtown.” Andrew Holt President, Downtown Topeka, Inc. Building on Momentum 2027: What’s next for Downtown Topeka? With projects like the Union at Tower District underway, redevelopment of the Docking State Office Building, and new businesses filling once-vacant storefronts, downtown Topeka continues to evolve. Downtown Topeka Inc. (DTI) President Andrew Holt says it’s an exciting time to be part of the city’s core, pointing to successful Momentum 2027 activations and more to come. “My goal,” Holt said, “is downtown Topeka will… Read More
Continue ReadingNOTO Master Plan
“As arts grow and we champion them, so are the opportunities for economic growth. We want to make sure we create an impact for the vitality of Topeka moving forward.” Pedro Concepcion CEO, NOTO Arts & Entertainment District NOTO Is growing through art & community The NOTO Arts & Entertainment District continues to position itself as one of Topeka’s vibrant cultural hubs. Over the past year, NOTO has expanded beyond its artistic roots to embrace entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community-driven programming that reflects and uplifts local culture. Through initiatives like its artist residency program, which provides free studio space for creatives to produce community-inspired work, NOTO is aligning closely with Momentum… Read More
Continue ReadingWashburn Now
“The impact on Topeka will be tremendous because it affects the people that we graduate, the readiness of our workforce, the type of learning experience that we can give them here, and they’re going to be ready to hit the ground running when they leave Washburn.” Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek President, Washburn University boldly shaping topeka’s future “Bold,” is how Washburn University President Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek describes the school’s current trajectory. With notable wins in its back pocket—and more growth on the horizon—Washburn is making strides to improve the campus experience and student outcomes, aligning its success with Topeka and Shawnee County’s Momentum 2027 strategy. Under Mazachek’s leadership, Washburn has expanded… Read More
Continue ReadingChildcare Task Force
“There are so many communities that don’t understand the economic benefit of having quality, affordable childcare in their community. What that means to the growth of the community. So being able to partner with local childcare centers such as Melissa Patterson and the Greater Topeka Partnership just has really been a big win for Shawnee County.” Sarah Elsen Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas building momentum through collaboration Childcare efforts in Topeka and Shawnee County continue to advance under Momentum 2027, with providers like Patterson Family Childcare Center expanding to meet demand. Patterson has opened two new centers in the past year, growing from 28 slots at the original location… Read More
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