McKinney Economic Development Corporation

We are proud to announce Shannon Roberts as the newest addition to our Economic Development team, stepping into the role of Special Events and Marketing Coordinator. With a strong career spanning municipal, nonprofit, and corporate sectors, Roberts brings a proven track record of success in creating dynamic events and marketing campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. Shannon’s career is marked by her ability to build impactful community relationships, conduct events with excellence, and implement innovative marketing strategies. Most recently, Shannon served the Town of Fairview Economic Development Corporation, where she spearheaded efforts to strengthen community partnerships, execute creative marketing initiatives, and deliver top-tier event experiences.   A graduate of Southern Methodist University, her previous roles with the cities of Allen and Mesquite have further honed her understanding of local government and her ability to design impactful programs that connect communities. Her leadership led to events celebrated as top entertainment picks by D Magazine, The Dallas Morning News, and The Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Now, she looks forward to applying her expertise to further elevate McKinney’s position as a hub of innovation, economic opportunity, and cultural excellence. Read the release: https://lnkd.in/g2XqDxBA

“In a room of 10 people if you ask, who likes the beach, all 10 people will raise their hand” Great interview from WFAA TV and Cole Cannon on why Cannon Beach will be such a great development for McKinney and North Texas 🌊

We are closing out the year with a 🌊splash 🌊 in McKinney! Today, the City of McKinney is excited to announce it is pursuing an agreement with Cannon Beach, a $200 million multi-use development set to redefine recreation, tourism, and economic innovation in North Texas. Anticipated to break ground in 2025 at the northeast corner of Stacy Road and S.H. 121, this 35-acre project will feature a four-acre surf lagoon, a full-service resort-style hotel, and dining, entertainment, and business spaces. See the full press release at the link in the comments 👇

Last night, our staff and board gathered at the McKinney Flour Mill to celebrate an incredible 2024 - we enjoyed a great evening together and heard from Mayor George Fuller, Board Chair Brian Loughmiller, City Manager Paul Grimes and our President and CEO Michael Kowski. Thank you to all our wonderful vendors who made such a special, memorable night in McKinney. Best ahead in 2025! Color Snack, Volta Voloshin-Smith- watercolor portraits Kim Guthrie – live painting Expressive Aromas Red Zeppelin Records Rocky Creek Candle Company

This week on McKinney Momentum we feature Dana Riley and Jill Johnson Scigliano from The Samaritan Inn right here in McKinney. The Samaritan Inn was founded in 1984 as a 10-bed single men’s homeless shelter. Since then, it has grown to become one of the largest shelters for our unhoused neighbors in North Texas. They serve single men, women, and families and have the capacity to serve up to 226 residents. Funded by private donors, city grants, and the InnStyle Resale Shop, YOUR giving and volunteering go a long way. Watch or listen to the full episode: https://lnkd.in/gpyUbCHD Learn more about how to donate and get involved here: https://saminn.org/ Shop InnStyle: https://innstyle.org/ Subscribe to their YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gdFdmpCZ

Incredible day yesterday partnered with the McKinney Chamber of Commerce and Plug and Play Tech Center as we presented the power of innovation and AI as a part of the McKinney technology ecosystem! Thank you for hosting us, Encore Wire Corp We got to hear dynamic and compelling pitches, powerful presentations, and inspiring panels from: Donna Wood, CoServ Michael Kowski, MEDC Kevin Parakkattu & Melanie Williamson, Plug and Play Tech Center Adam McAbee, StadiumDrop Joshua Stone, Book.io Jennifer Denham, Aloha Marcus Cooksey, DUKE.AI Bryan Plaster, Intelligage Stan Golubchik, ContraForce Dan Sinawat, AI CONNEX Nick James, WhitegloveAI Nimish Sakalle, IBM’s AI Build Lab

🎉 TOMORROW is the big day! 🎉 Don’t miss The Innovation Advantage: Startups, AI, and the Future of McKinney’s Business Community – a one-of-a-kind event showcasing how McKinney is becoming a global destination for innovation and entrepreneurial success. 📅 When: December 3rd, 2024 📍 Where: Encore Wire Employee Center – 910 Elm Street, McKinney 🎟️ Haven’t registered yet? There’s still time! Sign up now. Here’s why you’ll want to be there: 🚀 Learn how McKinney Economic Development Corporation’s Innovation Fund is empowering startups and driving economic growth. 🌐 Discover why global leaders like Plug and Play are investing in McKinney’s innovation ecosystem. 💡 Hear from cutting-edge startups, industry experts, and AI pioneers in a thought-provoking panel discussion. Featured speakers and panelists include: Donna Wood, CoServ Michael Kowski, MEDC Kevin Parakkattu & Melanie Williamson, Plug and Play Tech Center and Play Adam McAbee, StadiumDrop Joshua Stone, Book.io Jennifer Denham, Aloha Marcus Cooksey, DUKE.AI Bryan Plaster, Intelligage John Rattan, The Bodyshop Stan Golubchik, ContraForce Dan Sinawat, AI CONNEX Nick James, WhitegloveAI Nimish Sakalle, IBM’s AI Build Lab This is more than just an event—it’s a front-row seat to McKinney’s transformation as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Whether you’re a business leader, tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future, this event will leave you inspired and ready to connect. 🌟 Tomorrow, the future of McKinney starts. Will you be part of it? 🌟

It’s Small Business Saturday here in McKinney, and there’s no better time to show some love to our local shops, restaurants, and businesses! These small businesses are the heart of our community—they’re the ones who know your name, greet you with a smile, and make McKinney feel like home. When you shop small, you’re supporting the people who make this city special. So grab a coffee, take a stroll through downtown, and check out some of the amazing local spots McKinney has to offer. Have a favorite small business? Tag them below and let them know you appreciate them! #SmallBusinessSaturday #ShopLocal #McKinneyPride #HomefortheHolidays

Have a very Happy Thanksgiving, from all of us at the MEDC!

One of the fastest-growing companies on the Dallas Business Journal's list this year was looking for a number of factors to help boost their growth as a company, and McKinney checked a lot of boxes. Hear from Tom Currier of Maverick Power as to why the City of McKinney has been so special to put down roots as a company. Full Interview: https://lnkd.in/gb7zc4Ex