Why Missouri is the Smart Choice for Agri-Food Business Expansion

• November 11, 2025

For agri-food companies looking to expand, Missouri offers a rare combination: abundant resources, business-friendly policies, and a proven track record of attracting industry leaders.

A Hub for Value-Added Agriculture

From food ingredients to renewable fuels, Missouri is home to a thriving ecosystem of businesses that transform raw crops into high-value products. With corn, soybeans, dairy, and livestock in abundant supply, companies can access everything they need to scale production.

More than 500 food and agriculture companies already operate in Missouri, supported by almost 90,000 farms across the state. That foundation has drawn major investments:

• Swift Prepared Foods opened its Principe Foods facility in Columbia, a $200 million, 325,000 sq. ft. operation producing premium Italian meats.
  
• American Foods Group opened its America’s Heartland Packing facility in Warren County, strengthening Missouri’s beef processing sector.
  
• Deli Star Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of prepared meal proteins and deli solutions, opened a new headquarters and food research and development hub in St. Louis.

These projects showcase Missouri’s ability to support companies across the spectrum—from food production to cutting-edge ingredient innovation.

Business-Friendly, Growth-Oriented

Missouri offers competitive tax rates, affordable land and energy, and targeted incentives like the Missouri Works program and the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA). These programs provide grants, low-interest loans, and other financial support to help agri-food businesses succeed.

Missouri’s incentive programs, affordable operating costs, and dedicated workforce development initiatives make it one of the most supportive states for agri-food growth.

• Americold invested $100+ million in Kansas City for a 335,000 sq. ft. cold storage import-export hub, connected to CPKC’s rail service, creating ~190 jobs.
  
• The Agri-Ready County designation program, supported by Missouri Farmers Care, ensures local communities are prepared and welcoming to new ag investments.
  

Innovation at the Core

Leading research institutions such as the University of Missouri, 39 North innovation districtand the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, place research and commercialization side by side. From exploring new uses for soy proteins to advancing bio-based fuels, Missouri’s research partnerships help companies innovate and compete on a global scale.

Companies like Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies, investing $17+ million in a fertilizer plant in St. Louis, highlight the state’s role in sustainable ag innovation.

And for early stage innovative food and agtech companies, St. Louis’ Yield Lab is a non-profit organization dedicated to enabling entrepreneurs who are revolutionizing agri-food systems to sustainably feed the world.

Positioned to Reach the World

Missouri’s central location means companies can reach half the U.S. population within a one-day drive. Combined with extensive rail, river, and air connections, agri-food businesses in Missouri enjoy unmatched logistical efficiency.

From international food giants to innovative startups, companies are choosing Missouri because it delivers the resources, support, and market access needed for long-term success.