Happy 2026 from Merriam Tourism & Economic Development! We’re kicking off the year strong with exciting business events, new businesses opening their doors, fresh ways to connect with the community, and opportunities to get involved — from Adopt-a-Park projects to team-building invites and networking gatherings designed to help your business thrive.


As you plan your calendar for the year ahead, be sure to take advantage of opportunities to showcase your business at exclusive events like the Women's Business Breakfast in March, the Business Appreciation Happy Hour in June, and the Halloween Business Trunk or Treat in October. And, don’t miss this one: Game On in Merriam: World Cup Readiness for Merriam Businesses on Wednesday, April 29 — where we’ll share key updates, resources, and ways to prepare for welcoming visitors and fans from around the world.


We’re excited for all that’s ahead this season and the continued growth of our business community. Connect with us for questions, assistance, or just to say hi — and thanks for choosing Merriam!


— Karen Crane

Tourism & Economic Development Manager

Highlights Across Merriam

Welcome Tarahumara's! Serving authentic Mexican favorites at affordable prices, and daily specials, Tarahumara's in downtown Merriam is now open for business. With a completely renovated space, delicious menu items, and friendly faces to greet you, you'll love this new spot to dine! Check them out at 5816 Merriam Drive!

In 2025, Merriam welcomed 39 new businesses and conducted 42 business retention visits! Combined, these companies employ 937 people, and 16 of them are minority- or women-owned businesses.

We're happy that you've chosen our Just Right city to operate in, and we wish you great success!


Downtown Merriam is stepping into an exciting new chapter, guided by strong community support and a shared vision for change. With 82% of residents calling for a new direction and revitalization a top priority, City Council has directed staff to launch a Downtown Master Plan process -- one that addresses flooding, supports business relocations, and reimagines the district. Stay tuned as we work towards a vibrant downtown that’s active well beyond the workday.

Business Spotlight: HappyFeet Soccer KC

 

9701 W. 67th St.
Merriam, KS 66203

913-851-9898 | info@happyfeetkc.com

www.happyfeetkc.com

Our story: We offer soccer programming for kids ages 2-18. We have been in the KC area since 1989, and have franchises across the US, as well as internationally! But, Happy Feet started right here in KC. 
Has your business ever been recognized with any awards or accolades? 
We have many soccer trophies and have just started a new Adaptive Play program so that all kids can enjoy the beautiful game.



What makes Merriam a good choice for your business? Location! We are no further than 30-45 minutes from any place in KC and we love the city and area we are located in.


What is the best piece of business advice you have been given, or could offer to a new business owner? Hustle. Nothing beats hustle.


> > Check out Happy Feet's offer on the Shop Merriam program!


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Looking for ways to promote your business? We want to hear from you! Your business can be featured in an upcoming edition of the Business Development Digest, and on our social media platforms. To be featured in an upcoming issue, complete the online form. 

 

News, Events, & Resources

 

Women of Merriam, rise and shine! Join us for the Women’s Business Breakfast on Tuesday, March 31, at 8:00 a.m. at the Merriam Community Center.


Hear from financial wellness expert Marilyn Chappell and get tips to plan, prepare, & pursue your next level—personally and professionally.


  • Free breakfast
  • Connect with other women business professionals
  • Bring your business cards
  • Win a door prize
  • RSVP and bring a guest – open to licensed Merriam businesses only
 

Merriam Businesses — It’s Your Turn to Get in the Game 


FIFA World Cup 2026™ will bring thousands of visitors to our region — and Merriam is ready to roll out the welcome mat.


Join us for a *Game On in Merriam Business Readiness Meeting on Wednesday, April 29 from 4-6 pm where we’ll share tools, tips, and local plans to help you prepare for match days and maximize the opportunity to showcase your business.


We’ll talk safety, transportation, events, promotions, and simple ways to welcome visitors on an international scale.

*This event is for Merriam businesses only.

Did Someone Say Happy Hour?
We're changing up the Business Appreciation Happy Hour this year! Join us at 30hop for networking, appetizers and two drink tickets per
registered business attendee.



Wednesday, June 24 | 4-6 p.m. 
30hop -- 8715 Shawnee Mission Pkwy.

Evergy's Business Energy Savings Program
Did you know cash incentives are available to help your business move forward with energy-saving upgrades? Check out Evergy's business energy savings program to see if you qualify.

2026 Governor's Exporter of the Year Award

Nominate a deserving Merriam business now through March 30 for the Governor’s Exporter of the Year award.

Adopt A Merriam Park
The City of Merriam is looking for families, businesses, and community organizations to participate in the
Adopt-a-Park program. The program requires a three-year commitment, four activities per year, and ideas to keep the park clean and safe.

Rally Your Team for the Turkey Creek 5K
The Turkey Creek Festival 5K Run/Walk returns on Saturday, May 16 at the Merriam Marketplace, and we’re inviting
local businesses to lace up and join the fun! Businesses can register groups of four or more runners as a team — perfect for co-workers, departments, or even friendly competition between local organizations.

Shop Merriam -- add your offer

Shop Merriam is a great opportunity to promote your business and attract local shoppers. Offered year-round, this program connects businesses with the community by offering a modest discount to patrons! Don’t miss out—learn more and sign up at Shop Merriam.

Available sites and properties in Merriam

If you're in the market for a new office space, room to grow, or just curious about commercial real-estate offerings across Merriam, we've got you covered. Check out these listings of available land, buildings, and spaces across town that are updated weekly.

Subscribe to E-Merriam

Stay current with city events, news, and information each week! Every Thursday, the City publishes e-Merriam, an email newsletter detailing the happenings of the past week and highlighting important announcements for the upcoming week. Subscribe today!

Welcome to Merriam!

Merriam welcomed eight new businesses during the fourth quarter of 2025. We appreciate your decision to join our active and growing business community!



Josh Auto Repair
Greg Alford


Alora Medical Spa & Wellness Center

Flora Massage Suite

The Skn Academy

Eliante Rojas Massage Therapist

Lisa Geraghty Counseling

Kustom Dezines Auto Facility

 
 
 
 

Helpful Links

City of Merriam

Downtown Merriam Partnership

NEJC Chamber of Commerce

Johnson County Economic Research Institute

SCORE Kansas City Chapter

Kansas City Area Development Council

Small Business Development Center

KC SourceLink

Workforce Partnership

Kansas Department of Commerce

Better Business Bureau of Kansas City

U.S. Small Business Administration

Karen Crane

 Tourism & Economic Development Manager

913.322.5534

kcrane@merriam.org

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