News Archive
News Articles
SBDC May Highlight: Cherryvale’s LaundryThe Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC) is proud to highlight Cherryvale’s Laundry, a locally owned business serving residents throughout the Cherryvale community with dependable, customer-focused service. What began as an idea quickly became a reality with the help of guidance and support from Montgomery County...
There is a housing shortage across the United States, with an estimated deficit of 4.7 million homes. This crunch is felt in major metropolitan areas and rural communities alike, but the cities that comprise Montgomery County, Kansas, are taking action. Each municipality is taking steps to increase housing inventory through...
How Forward-Thinking Companies Are Redefining Workplace Wellness — and Winning Because of It
May 1 2026I remember the exact moment I knew something had to change. I was answering emails at midnight, physically present but mentally checked out, running on caffeine and the vague promise of a weekend that never felt restful. I wasn’t alone.According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace Report, declining engagement...
The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship today announced the recipients of the 2026 Kansas Apprenticeship Awards, recognizing the outstanding leaders, organizations and programs that are driving innovation and expanding Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across the state.“Our apprenticeship partners have played a tremendous role growing our workforce over the last several years,”...
As the retail real estate industry enters 2026, one conclusion is no longer debatable: reports of brick-and-mortar retail’s demise were not only premature—they were fundamentally wrong. Physical retail has not vanished; it has recalibrated. Today’s retail market is leaner, more data-driven, and far more selective about where and how it...
MPAC Aviation Services & Their SBDC Story
Apr 17 2026SBDC April Highlight: MPAC Aviation ServicesFounded in 2018, MPAC Aviation Services is a locally owned aviation business based in Independence, Kansas, specializing in engine accessory overhaul management for turbine aircraft. Serving customers across the aviation industry—including corporate, agricultural, public-use, and military sectors—MPAC helps clients navigate the complex and costly process of...
Rural Communities: Worth the Investment
Apr 14 2026At Strengthening America’s Economy through Rural Investment: A Working Forum, Washington, D.C. with Federal Reserve Governor Michael S. Barr.It is great to be here with you today.1 During my career, I've had the opportunity to work on issues affecting rural communities, especially access to capital. My time at the Federal...
What Does “Site Readiness” Really Mean?
Apr 7 2026Shovel-ready. Development-ready. Certified. Investment-ready. The vocabulary of site readiness has expanded even as its meaning has remained stubbornly contested. Ask a company executive, a construction manager, a lender, or a state economic development official what “site readiness” means, and you’ll get a different answer from each. The one thing they...
El Charro & Their SBDC Story
Apr 2 2026Small Business Highlight: El Charro of Coffeyville, KSSince opening its doors in 2011, El Charro has been serving the Coffeyville community with authentic flavors and a strong commitment to customer care. Owned by Salvador Bermudez, this locally loved restaurant has grown into more than just a place to eat—it’s a...
There are many opportunities for residents and employers in Montgomery County to get involved in workforce development by identifying upskilling opportunities and exploring new ideas. There are a few upcoming events that make it easy to connect with professional groups in the community while investing in Montgomery County in the...
There’s plenty to do in Montgomery County, Kansas, throughout the year, from exploring its race tracks to visiting local zoos. However, March is a particularly fun time in the region, with each town celebrating Spring with events, festivals, and other activities.“One of the benefits of living in a rural community...
Nordic Turbine Service & Their SBDC Story
Feb 23 2026Nordic Turbine Services of Independence, KSSince launching in November 2020 and transitioning to full-time operations in February 2023, Nordic Turbine Service has steadily built its presence at 3848 West Main as a specialized jet engine overhaul facility serving the aviation industry. Founded by Daniel Thorenson under Thorenson Enterprise LLC, the company...
The City of Coffeyville is actively investing in economic development by offering two certified sites to potential businesses. While communities across Kansas (and the entire United States) have land parcels for sale, certified sites demonstrate that specific properties are ready for development. Certification makes these parcels a low-risk choice, increasing...
You're in a meeting about childcare.Not business attraction, not incentives, not site selection. Childcare. Three employers told you the same thing last quarter: they can't fill the second shift because parents can't find care after 6:00 p.m. So now you're at a table with the United Way, a hospital HR...
For nearly 40 years, American migration patterns centered around people moving from rural communities to major metropolitan areas. Since 1980, 80% of the country’s growth in the under-45 population has been found in cities with more than a million residents.Then a global pandemic happened, and this decades-long migration pattern was...
Discount Delights Opened in Cherryvale, KS
Jan 27 2026Cherryvale now has greater access to affordable grocery options right within the community! Discount Delights, located at 218 W. Main Street in Cherryvale, opened in mid-December and is owned and operated by Jonathan Beth.The store offers a wide selection of shelf-stable essentials, including canned goods, snacks, cereals, noodles, baking items,...
Strong communities are built through collaboration, shared goals, and organizations that work together to create opportunity. During our 12 Days of Members celebration, we are proud to recognize our Community Partner members—organizations dedicated to economic vitality, downtown development, and community betterment across Montgomery County.These partners work alongside the Montgomery County...
As the year winds down and our community gears up for a busy winter season, there’s never been a better time to support the local service providers who keep our region running. These homegrown businesses play a vital role in our daily lives — and in the strength of our...
During our 12 Days of Members celebration, we are proud to recognize the banks, insurance providers, and financial service professionals who help keep Montgomery County strong. These trusted local members play a vital role in supporting businesses, protecting families, and investing in the long-term success of our communities. From personalized...
Montgomery County doesn’t grow by accident — it grows because businesses, organizations, and leaders choose to invest in the future of our communities. Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC) serves as the county’s economic development engine, and membership means having a seat at the table where progress happens.Here are 12 powerful...
As the holiday season takes shape across Montgomery County, our local retailers are at the center of the festive energy. From small shops to larger stores, these businesses help create the atmosphere we look forward to each year—welcoming neighbors, supporting local traditions, and offering the goods that make holiday giving...
As the holiday season arrives, Montgomery County’s manufacturers continue to play a steady, essential role in our community. Much like the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the holidays come together, the work happening on our shop floors reflects dedication, skill, and pride in creating something that matters.This time of year, many...
Montgomery County is home to an incredible network of healthcare providers, wellness specialists, caregivers, and medical support services. These organizations work every day to strengthen our communities, care for our families, and improve quality of life for residents across Independence, Caney, Cherryvale, Coffeyville, and beyond.As part of the 12 Days...
Strong communities thrive when their residents stay informed, connected, and engaged. Here in Montgomery County, we’re fortunate to have a variety of dedicated local news outlets committed to sharing the stories that matter most — from community events and local achievements to breaking news and regional updates.As the season becomes...
