City of Entrepreneurs Marketplace Opens at Union Station, Showcasing Kansas City's Local Business Community During World Cup Summer

More than 100 local businesses, artists, makers, food vendors, and community organizations will activate Union Station as a premier destination for entrepreneurship, culture, and community.

For Immediate Release: June 11, 2026

Kansas City, in partnership with the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, is excited to announce the opening of the City of Entrepreneurs Marketplace at Union Station, a five-week activation designed to place Kansas City's local businesses, artists, makers, and entrepreneurs at the center of one of the region's most significant tourism moments.

It's open Thursday through Sunday from June 11 through July 12 inside Union Station's Grand Plaza. The marketplace will transform one of Kansas City's most iconic destinations into a vibrant hub for local commerce, culture, and community as visitors from around the world gather in the region throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026™ period.

Part of the broader City of Entrepreneurs initiative, the marketplace was created to ensure local businesses have a meaningful role in the economic opportunities generated by the World Cup while providing residents and visitors with a uniquely Kansas City experience centered around local products, food, art, culture, and entrepreneurship.

"This marketplace represents more than a retail opportunity," said Tracey Lewis, President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri. "It is a platform to showcase the talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial energy that exists in every corner of Kansas City. As the world turns its attention to our region, we want visitors to experience the businesses, makers, and entrepreneurs who help define our city's identity."

The activation builds upon the momentum of Open Doors!, Kansas City's storefront activation initiative that transforms vacant spaces into vibrant places by connecting entrepreneurs, artists, and property owners to create new opportunities for local business growth. Together, these efforts reflect a broader strategy to strengthen Kansas City's entrepreneurial ecosystem while creating more visible pathways for local businesses to thrive.

In addition to shopping opportunities, visitors can enjoy live entertainment, cultural programming, artist activations, community experiences, and special events throughout the five-week run.

The marketplace is free and open to the public.

Throughout the five-week activation, the City of Entrepreneurs Marketplace will showcase more than 100 local businesses, brands, artists, makers, food vendors, and community organizations, reflecting the diversity and innovation of Kansas City's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Participating vendors include:

Featured Marketplace Vendors

Businesses, Brands & Organizations