Global Grain Doubling Down On Its Investment in Topeka, Generating $51.5 million Economic Impact
Today, Topeka and Shawnee County’s Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) board approved an incentive agreement that will aid in the expansion of Global Grain, an existing business in Topeka’s manufacturing industry, that helps connect farmers in the region with opportunities to market and export their agricultural products.
Previously referred to as “Project GiGi,” the expansion is expected to result in six new positions with an average salary of $60,000, plus benefits, with Global Grain also expected to make a $725,000 capital investment. Economic development incentives of up to $45,400 are being offered to the business through JEDO to aid in the company’s growth. With a projected economic impact locally of $51.5 million over 10 years, the incentives are expected to result in a 41% return on investment for the community.
Furthermore, those new investments represent an amendment to a previous Global Grain-JEDO contract initiated in 2018, as the company has met the original performance metrics and is looking to invest further in its Topeka facilities. The prior agreement, known as “Project Eagle,” created 10 new jobs and led to $5 million in capital investments.
“We’re proud to call Topeka ‘home,’” said Ryan Broxterman, Global Grain partner. “Doing business here has allowed us to scale up quicker than we expected when we launched almost five years ago. We’re thankful for the community partners who have helped make that possible, along with our amazing clients across the region who trust us to help grow their family farms and businesses.”
“It’s fantastic to see a local company like Global Grain invest further in Topeka and Shawnee County with the help of JEDO,” said Bill Riphahn, Shawnee County Commission chair. “They’re creating more jobs for residents of our community, while working to serve farmers across the state, because they see the value of doing business right here in Shawnee County.”
“I’m proud to see Global Grain increase their presence in our community through these new investments,” said Topeka Mayor Mike Padilla. “It’s great to see they’re growing faster than expected, contributing to the economic vitality of our beautiful capital city. I look forward to their continued success here.”
“As a home-grown company, Global Grain has worked closely with us over the years. We’re a great location for businesses wanting to advance in the agricultural-technology space, so it’s exciting that Global Grain sees the value in expanding here,” said Molly Howey, GO Topeka president. “They’ve been a great local partner and are bound to become an even bigger player in the area, and our region. I’m confident Global Grain will continue to positively impact Topeka and Shawnee county through job creation, new business expenditure, and in many other ways.”
