Kansas City Activates Vacant Storefronts

Kansas City and the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC) are excited to announce that more than 20 local businesses, artists, and organizations have been matched to storefronts across the city through the Open Doors! program, activating vacant spaces ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™

"Kansas City is a city of makers, creators, and entrepreneurs. We're lowering barriers, providing real resources, and making sure our businesses are positioned to thrive, said Mayor Quinton Lucas. "By linking businesses to storefronts across the city, we're turning global attention into real, lasting economic opportunity for the people who call Kansas City home."

Beginning June 1, these businesses will operate across 18+ locations throughout downtown and surrounding districts, including the Crossroads, 18th & Vine, River Market, Midtown, and Westport.

Part of the broader City of Entrepreneurs platform, Open Doors! transforms underutilized spaces into vibrant, community-driven destinations, placing Kansas City's local business ecosystem at the center of one of the largest global moments in the city's history.

Participating Businesses
The following businesses and organizations will be featured as part of the Open Doors! initiative:

• KC Jazz Alive - 515 W SW Blvd, Suite 1
  A live jazz and music experience celebrating Kansas City's deep cultural roots in sound and performance.
• Music Across Borders - 515 W SW Blvd, Suite 2
  A cultural music platform connecting global sounds and communities through immersive programming.
• Precious Frivolities - 1712 Main Street
  An elevated retail experience bringing together established artists, designers, and curated vintage retailers.
• Hella Good Deeds - 913 E 5th Street
  A purpose-driven concept blending retail with community impact and storytelling.
• Birdies - 1800 Baltimore
  A boutique retail experience rooted in art, fashion, and creative expression.
• JVB Swim - 3907A Main Street
  A swimwear brand offering bold, contemporary designs centered on confidence and identity.
• Studio Cheeks - 2004 Grand Blvd
  A creative studio highlighting visual art and playful, expressive design.
• Raw Art LLC - 3004 Troost
  An art-focused concept centered on painting, creativity, and immersive artistic experiences.
• Megh Knappenberger Art - 108 Missouri Ave
  A fine artist showcasing original works and curated creative products.
• Bubbles + Goo - 510 Delaware, Suite 1
  A bath and body brand offering handcrafted self-care products with a playful edge.
• Cut + Sew Productions KC - 510 Delaware, Suite 2
  A fashion and textile studio specializing in custom garments and sewn goods.
• Boxx Décor Co. - 1710-1712 E 18th Street
  An elevated home décor experience offering curated, ready-to-style interior pieces.
• Grind LLC - 1708 E 18th Street
  A lifestyle-driven coffee and culture brand rooted in community and daily ritual.
• El Café Cubano - 414 E 12th Street (1st Floor Rotunda)
  A Cuban café experience bringing bold flavors and cultural tradition to downtown.
• National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP KC) - 201 Westport Road
  A collaborative community activation highlighting culture, entrepreneurship, and shared space.
• Cupcakin - 1512 E 18th Street
  A beloved local bakery known for its handcrafted cupcakes and vibrant flavors.
• Safi Fresh - 1512 E 18th Street (Collaborative Space)
  A fresh food and catering concept focused on quality ingredients and community connection.
• Madrina Vegana Taqueria - 1881 Main Street
  A plant-based taqueria offering bold, flavorful vegan interpretations of traditional dishes.
• Brain Freeze Mobile Daiquiri - 408 E 31st Street
  A mobile beverage concept delivering refreshing frozen cocktails and high-energy experiences.

urning Vacant Spaces into Opportunity

Open Doors! is designed to lower barriers to entry for businesses ready to grow by providing:

• Short-term, subsidized storefront opportunities (3-6 months)
• Working capital grants to support build-out and operations
• Technical assistance in legal, marketing, finance, access to capital, and business development
• Access to high-traffic locations during the World Cup

Together, these elements create a launchpad for businesses to test concepts, expand their reach, and build long-term sustainability.

"Open Doors! is about access and visibility," said Assistant Director Nia Webster, Neighborhood Services Department. "We're creating real opportunities for businesses to step into high-traffic spaces, connect with new customers, and build momentum that lasts beyond the World Cup."

The initiative spans more than 43,000 square feet of activated space and represents one of the most coordinated small business activation efforts tied to a major global event in Kansas City's history.

Visitors and residents will be able to explore a diverse mix of experiences-from retail and fashion to food, art, and cultural programming-connected through the city's streetcar line and supported by additional transportation options.

To enhance accessibility, Open Doors! Businesses will also be featured in a Small Business Guide developed in partnership with Airbnb, helping visitors navigate and discover local businesses throughout their stay.