The state of Kansas has been ranked first in its region for economic development projects in Site Selection magazine’s 2012 rankings. Site Selection, which has compiled annual economic development rankings since 1978, listed Kansas 13^th among all states for expansions and new facilities opened in 2012.

Site Selection ranked Kansas first in the seven state West North Central region that also included Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. With 122 new facilities and expansions in 2012, Kansas led all states in this region. Kansas also had the most economic development projects in the region over the three year period from 2010-2012, with 274 new facilities and expansions during this time.

Of the 122 economic development projects in 2012, Kansas Commerce Secretary Pat George says 17 were classified as new manufacturing facilities, 32 as manufacturing expansions and the remaining 73 as all other categories, including offices, headquarters, distribution centers, research and development facilities and mixed-use facilities.