Happy fall from Merriam Tourism & Economic Development!


The momentum in Merriam this season is real — new businesses, big community wins, national recognition, and resources designed to help you finish the year strong. From exciting downtown updates and upcoming events to grants, holiday promotions, and a few important reminders, there is a lot to celebrate and even more to look forward to.


Merriam’s businesses make this city unique, welcoming, and worth investing in — and we’re proud to support you every step of the way. Reach out anytime — we love hearing from you!


— Karen Crane

Tourism & Economic Development Manager

Highlights Across Merriam

Welcome to the Neighborhood, Trader Joe's

After having no grocery store in Merriam since 2018, Wednesday, Sept. 2 was a morning worth celebrating. 


Trader Joe's officially opened its doors in Merriam, and the community showed up in a big way. Mayor Pape was busy with a lot of media coverage as excited shoppers waited to step inside. This new grocery opening was a true community moment — and a council goal years in the making, due to the dedication of many partners working together.

Genesis Grand Opening
A new auto dealership is now open at 7220 W. Frontage Road.



Genesis of Kansas City opened in September with an impressive lineup of new and pre-owned Genesis models.


If you're in the market for a vehicle, make sure to stop by Genesis to view the inventory, chat about the specials, and talk with a member of the service team.

IceWaterer Receives Award
Merriam newcomer
IceWaterer, LLC won the KC regional award in the Agribusiness category at the Kansas Department of Commerce’s “To the Stars” banquet on October 8. 

Nominated by Merriam Tourism & Economic Development, the Downtown Merriam company was chosen from 22 other nominees for its innovative product that keeps livestock watered in harsh winters without electricity, plumbing, or ice chopping. Owner David Tannahill called the win “a real blessing.”



News, Events & Resources

 
 

It's the last few days to sign your business up for a fun, free way to get in front of hundreds of Merriam families! Click the sign-up button, decorate a trunk, and join us for Halloween Happenings on Saturday, October 17!

Held at the Merriam Marketplace in downtown Merriam, this event is a 'fangtastic' opportunity to show off your business personality, connect with the community, and make a lasting impression on the families and kids who attend. 

Whether you go all-out spooky or keep it festive and fun, your participation helps to promote your business in the best possible way. Best of all, it's completely free!

 

Downtown Merriam Master Plan Update

Thanks to the input of residents, business owners, and community partners, the Downtown Merriam Master Plan (DMMP) is progressing along. On September 29, the Steering Committee met to hear from the Merriam Drainage District, review the final plan options, and confirm implementation priorities. 

Guided by public feedback gathered throughout this process, committee members voted individually among three vision alternatives and recommended Vision C as the preferred direction. This recommendation will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council in November, where it will help shape the Governing Body’s consideration of the plan. Follow the project’s progress and learn more at
merriam.org/dmmp.

Shop Merriam -- change or add your offer

The holidays will be here before you know it. Make sure your Shop Merriam offer is front and center before our holiday promotions begin. 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.

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.

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.

Kansas Commerce Grants Guide

The Kansas Department of Commerce provides active financial support and workforce grants to help local businesses lower development costs and expand training programs. Companies can tap into matching state funding and free growth resources designed to scale operations and strengthen their teams. Explore active opportunities and apply on the Kansas Commerce Grants Guide.

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 the City of Merriam! Every Thursday, the City publishes news and highlights for the upcoming week delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today!

Business Spotlight: SevenDays

Making Merriam a little kinder, one conversation at a time.


What does SevenDays do?

SevenDays is a Merriam-based nonprofit on a powerful mission — overcoming hate by promoting kindness and understanding through education and dialogue. They offer programs and resources for K-12 students, helping young people develop empathy and compassion in an increasingly complex world.


How long have you been in Merriam?

SevenDays has called Merriam home for six years, and the community has been a great fit — easy to navigate, full of great amenities, and, appropriately, filled with kind people!


Any notable recognition?

Absolutely. Founder Mindy has been honored with the Buck O'Neil Seat at a Kansas City Royals game and the Lamar Hunt Legacy Seat with the Kansas City Chiefs — two meaningful tributes to her impactful work. SevenDays has also been recognized as a celebrated partner by the Community Blood Center.


Best advice for fellow business owners?

Continue to listen to your constituents and adapt to the changing business needs. The world is changing at a very rapid pace!


Looking for a business volunteer opportunity? 

Volunteer with SevenDays 


🌐 www.SevenDays.org

📱 @GiveSevenDays

✉️ kelly@SevenDays.org


>> Want to feature your business? We want to hear from you! To be included in an upcoming edition of the Business Development Digest, please complete the online form. 

Welcome to Merriam

 

Since our last issue, Merriam welcomed an additional 25 new businesses to our community, bringing 358 new jobs along with them. Learn more about our newest businesses at the links below!



*Please note: businesses are listed once an
occupational license application has been received, approved, and issued.

 
 

COMING IN 2027
 A Just Right Welcome
for Your Business!



To help you get connected and familiar with City services, we're inviting new businesses to a special, fast-paced quarterly gathering designed completely around YOU!


This is not a lecture on local regulations or standard city introductions. Instead, it is a one-hour interactive session to show you how the city can help market your business, answer questions, and support your daily operations. Stay tuned for more information.

 

Helpful Links

City of Merriam

Downtown Merriam Master Plan

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 Midwest Plains
U.S. Small Business Administration

Karen Crane

 Tourism & Economic Development Manager

913.322.5534

kcrane@merriam.org

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