Missouri Power Belt Strengthens Mid-Missouri’s Competitive Edge for Industrial Growth

• May 19, 2026

Key Takeaways: 

• The new Missouri Power Belt is helping Mid-Missouri compete for the next generation of manufacturing, logistics, and industrial investment, positioning the region as an energy and utility destination. 
• A new regional alliance of three electric cooperatives along Missouri’s I-70 corridor highlights electric-ready sites, scalable infrastructure, and strategic access to major U.S. markets.

The Missouri Power Belt, a collaboration between three electric cooperatives serving the I-70 corridor between Kansas City and St. Louis, is showcasing Mid-Missouri as a premier destination for companies seeking speed-to-market, reliable infrastructure, and long-term growth opportunities.

Formed by Callaway Electric Cooperative, Cuivre River Electric Cooperative, and Co-Mo Connect, the initiative highlights one of Missouri’s greatest advantages: available power and industrial-ready sites in the center of the United States.

The Missouri Power Belt launch comes at a critical time, as manufacturers, logistics providers, and industrial employers across the country increasingly prioritize regions with scalable energy infrastructure, available industrial land, and infrastructure certainty. 

According to the organization’s news release, “The Missouri Power Belt is emphasizing speed-to-market and infrastructure certainty for companies evaluating expansion opportunities.”

The release also highlighted several regional advantages, including:

• More than 1 million regional residents
• More than 37,000 net new regional jobs created over the past decade
• More than 100,000 manufacturing jobs across the region
• A 90% prime-age labor force participation rate

The corridor also includes multiple certified industrial sites ranging from 100 to 1,000 acres with access to scalable electric infrastructure and interstate connectivity.

As energy availability and infrastructure readiness become increasingly important in corporate site selection decisions, initiatives like the Missouri Power Belt help reinforce Missouri’s reputation as a business-friendly state that’s united around a shared vision for economic growth. 

Learn more about the Missouri Power Belt.