Rep. Mark Alford Applauds NSF’s $160 Million Kansas City Award Following His Push and Letter of Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mark Alford applauds the National Science Foundation's (NSF) decision to award the University of Missouri-Kansas City-led Critical Materials Crossroads Engine up to $160 million in federal funding, following bipartisan advocacy efforts including a letter of support he sent to help secure the investment.

Rep. Alford joined colleagues in urging NSF to select the Kansas City region, highlighting its strong workforce, infrastructure and leadership in advanced manufacturing and research.

"This is a big win for Missouri's Fourth District and for America's future," said Mark Alford. "Rebuilding our domestic supply chains for critical materials strengthens our national security, supports energy independence and drives economic growth. I was proud to send a letter supporting this effort, and I'm glad to see that work deliver real results for Missouri."

The Critical Materials Crossroads Engine, led by the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), brings together more than 260 partners across higher education, industry, government and workforce organizations. The initiative aims to expand domestic production of materials essential to modern technologies, including semiconductors, batteries, aerospace components and medical devices.

The investment positions the Greater Kansas City region as a national hub for critical materials innovation, commercialization and workforce development. According to regional estimates, the effort could create approximately 10,000 jobs by 2036 and generate up to $40 billion in economic output.

"This investment reinforces that the Heartland has the workforce, infrastructure and expertise to lead in rebuilding America's industrial base," Alford added.

"Kansas City is uniquely positioned to drive innovation and ensure the United States is no longer dependent on foreign adversaries for the materials that power our economy and national defense."

The award includes an initial $15 million over two years, with the potential to grow to $160 million over the next decade if key milestones are met.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program supports cross-sector partnerships to accelerate critical technologies, strengthen regional economies and maintain U.S. leadership in innovation.

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