December 2006

Kansas City SmartPort E-News

Fast Fact

Kansas City is the third largest trucking center in the nation.

KU's New Transportation Research Institute Names Director

Dr. Robert Honea is the director of the new Transportation Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Kansas. The institute is charged with interdisciplinary research of transportation issues and their social and environmental consequences.  Honea brings more than 25 years of transportation research expertise to the new institute and serves on KC SmartPort's Board of Directors. Learn more about Dr. Honea.

DOC Grant Proves Successful for Area Companies

Three area companies recently used funding from KC SmartPort's Department of Commerce grant to explore business opportunities in Mexico and Central America. The result: new leads and new business. 

To date, eight companies have utilized assistance from the grant and all have increased their exports to Mexico. For one company, it helped secure a multi-million dollar contract.  For more information contact Larin Payne. 

KC SmartPort Featured in NASCO Special Section

NASCO organized an 18-page feature section in Inbound Logistics magazine last month. Kansas City was prominently featured throughout and KC SmartPort was recognized as a model for other inland ports for its progress, success and leadership.  Read the full article.


Global Network of Interns

AIESEC is an international not-for-profit internship organization which sources highly qualified, globally-minded young people to companies looking to expand, fill temporary or seasonal positions, or gain insight into diverse markets.  AIESEC offers a plethora of members with diverse educational backgrounds, language and professional abilities. 

Many companies are expanding internationally but lack individuals who have native command of the local language and firsthand knowledge of the local market. Other area companies are beginning to compete with foreign corporations but still need individuals who have experience with the incoming competition. 

If your company is interested in finding out more about this opportunity, please send a message to aieseckansas@gmail.com.

SmartPort Partner Profile: Kansas City Transportation Association

The Kansas City Transportation Association (KCTA) is charged with connecting area residents as well as business and civic leaders about public and private transportation in the Kansas City area. The association provides numerous forums and seminars to discuss ideas, ask questions and voice concerns that relate to our region's transportation network.  Learn more about KCTA.