Andrea Bough takes helm of Kansas City EDC

Andrea Bough has been appointed interim president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC), bringing more than two decades of experience in economic development, commercial real estate, land use and public service to the organization as it looks to build on the city’s growing national profile.

Bough assumed the role in late August following the departure of former CEO Tracey Lewis. Previously chair of the EDCKC Board and a Kansas City councilmember, Bough said her focus will be on maintaining momentum while ensuring the city is prepared to seize future investment opportunities.

“Kansas City has earned national attention over the past few years,” Bough said. “Our task now is to make sure people don’t forget about us.”

EDCKC plays a central role in shaping Kansas City’s economic future through business attraction and expansion, neighborhood revitalization, small business support, redevelopment projects and strategic investment initiatives. Bough said the organization will continue working with public and private partners to advance projects that generate long-term economic impact across the region.

Among the organization’s current priorities is supporting major developments such as the proposed Kansas City Royals ballpark project, where EDCKC is involved through its oversight of the city’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Commission. Beyond financing, Bough said the organization’s role is to ensure major investments also deliver benefits for surrounding neighborhoods, local businesses and the broader community.

“It’s about being at the table as these projects come together,” she said. “The goal is to secure the best possible outcome for Kansas City.”

While attracting major employers remains important, Bough said growing local businesses will be equally critical to the city’s long-term competitiveness.

“Entrepreneurship is economic development,” she said. “We can’t rely only on bringing companies here. We also have to invest in the entrepreneurs who are already building businesses in Kansas City.”

She highlighted programs that help entrepreneurs access financing, storefronts, business services and other resources, noting that initiatives supporting small businesses during major events have demonstrated the value of preparing local companies to capitalize on new economic opportunities.

Bough also emphasized closer collaboration with organizations such as Port KC and other regional partners to coordinate investment strategies, workforce development and redevelopment initiatives that strengthen Kansas City’s economic ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Bough said her immediate priority is to build on the organization’s existing foundation while improving efficiency and expanding its impact.

“My goal is to make sure we are thinking boldly, executing efficiently and staying connected with the community,” she said. “We want EDCKC to be an even stronger resource for entrepreneurs, businesses and investors as Kansas City continues to grow.”