Nearly $4.8 million in business investment, 66 new jobs and more than half a million dollars in housing assistance are among the results Greater Morris County Development Corporation is reporting as it marks the midpoint of 2026.
GMDC recently released its 2026 Mid-Year Update, outlining economic development efforts involving businesses, entrepreneurs, housing and community investment throughout Morris County.
While the update was released this year, many of the figures represent GMDC’s work over several years.
Since 2023, GMDC reports its efforts have helped support the creation of 66 jobs throughout the Morris County region. Twenty-seven of those jobs were created through new businesses, while 39 resulted from existing businesses expanding and investing locally.
Business investment has also been significant. Since 2023, GMDC has worked with lenders, investors, grant programs, entrepreneurs and community partners to help generate nearly $4.8 million in capital investment in Morris County.
Of that amount, approximately $549,000 was invested in existing businesses, while more than $4.2 million was associated with new business development. The investment has helped support new storefronts, building improvements, equipment purchases and business expansions.
Housing has been another area of focus.
Since 2023, GMDC has helped provide more than $532,000 in housing assistance and awarded 39 housing rehabilitation grants. Those grants resulted in rehabilitation work on 39 homes throughout Morris County. GMDC views housing as part of economic development because available and well-maintained housing can help employers attract workers and allow residents to remain in their communities.
GMDC has also worked to make financing available to people starting or expanding businesses through the Network Kansas E-Community Loan Fund.
Since 2021, $438,600 has been loaned to local businesses through 12 loans, for an average loan of $36,550. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs access to affordable financing that can help turn business ideas into operating or expanding enterprises.
GMDC said economic development involves more than recruiting large companies to the county. Its work is centered on four areas: business recruitment, retention and expansion of existing businesses, housing and infrastructure, and legislative advocacy. The organization also emphasized that the results are not GMDC’s alone, but have involved cooperation among businesses, local governments, financial institutions, nonprofit organizations, state agencies, community leaders, volunteers and residents.
As GMDC moves through the second half of 2026, the organization said it will continue working to create opportunities, strengthen existing businesses and communities, and improve quality of life throughout Morris County.