Created in 2005, the Visit KC Foundation is a 501(c)3 entity associated with the region’s destination management organization, supporting causes on both sides of the state line. Through programming such as Kansas City Restaurant Week and other initiatives, the Foundation enhances the quality of life for the Kansas City region through its priorities of tourism advocacy and workforce development. 

In 2020 and early 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic delivered a swift blow to the travel and tourism industry, sending the industry’s national unemployment to Depression levels. Kansas City’s hospitality community felt that impact immensely, witnessing a steep decline in tourism revenues and the shuttering of several local businesses. It’s estimated that a full recovery will take years.

Currently, funds allocated to the Visit KC Foundation go towards supporting individuals and partners in our industry who were impacted most by the events of 2020 and 2021. These initiatives are crucial as our destination works to rebound and rebuild our hard-hit hospitality community, a segment that employed 48,000 Kansas Citians in 2019.