For Immediate Release
October 19, 2008
Contact: Erin Way, Media Relations
(202)942-9474, eway@iedconline.org
University Recognized for Innovative Program
Acknowledging the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) for its innovative entrepreneurship-based program, the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) will recognize the educational institution with an Honorable Mention at IEDC's Annual Conference, which is scheduled to take place in Atlanta, Georgia, October 19-22. UMKC will be noticed for this achievement during an awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 21st.
"Economic development efforts have long been a keystone in the quest to bolster the economy and improve quality of life in every locality across the country," said Robin Roberts Krieger, IEDC chair. "As the nation continues to tackle longstanding challenges in the midst of an inhospitable financial climate, these efforts have taken on an even greater significance. With the award, we laud trendsetting entities like the University of Missouri-Kansas City for leading the charge."
Competing in the category of Entrepreneurship by organizations serving areas with populations exceeding 200,000, UMKC was a clear standout with KCSourceLink, which connects a network of over 140 nonprofit business-building resource organizations in the 18-county Kansas City region to the aspiring and existing businesses owners that need their services. The mission is to help small business grow and prosper by providing business owners easy access to needed services. Entrepreneurs and business owners can access the entire network by making one phone call, emailing or using a search tool, The Resource Navigator, on the web site at www.kcsourcelink.com. KCSourceLink strengthens the nonprofit network by collaborating with the resource partners to enhance their effectiveness, resulting in economic growth and impact. Created in 2003 by a consortium of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s Henry W. Bloch School of Business and Public Administration, KCSourceLink has emerged as a major component of the Kansas City region's economic development strategy. As part of an urban university, KCSourceLink is an example of how UMKC is connecting with the community to both educate students and promote economic growth.
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is headquartered in Washington, DC. Its mission is to provide leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members and partners. IEDC's professional economic development awards annually recognize excellence in the economic development profession.