Area Development
Cargill kicked off construction of its new $14.7 million research and development center in Wichita, Kansas yesterday, the Wichita Business Journal reports. The 75,000-square-foot Cargill Innovation Center is expected to be completed next summer.

"There is a tremendous amount of pride knowing this facility will be located in the heart of downtown Wichita," said Jody Horner, president of Cargill Meat Solutions.

Kansas has extended $2.6 million in incentives to Cargill, Wichita has promised $132,000 in site improvements and property tax exemptions, and Sedgwick County is working on a $40,000 loan. The Kansas Bioscience Authority has also offered a $750,000 grant.

The new facility will employ 65 people in food safety, product testing, and development. It will include kitchens for creating new products, and a food distribution center to serve Wichita area grocery stores.