In 2040, Olathe's economy is resilient to downturns because there are businesses of all sizes and many different sectors.

Context

Many diverse corporations, industries, and small businesses bring prosperity to our community. Our top ten employers represent a wide range of services and specialties: government, education, technology, medical, insurance, food, security, and transportation. Diversity in the business sector makes our community and workforce more resilient when there are downturns in the broader economy.

Continuing to cultivate a strong, diverse business economy will ensure the economic prosperity of our community into the future. Additionally, it will help maintain the vitality of our City, creating a sustainable place for our residents to succeed.

Goals

• Increase Olathe's economic base.
• Increase prosperity of residents.

In 2040, Olathe's workforce has the skills and knowledge to compete in current and emerging markets.

Context

Olathe has a history of excellence in education. We are home to public and private universities, Kansas School for the  Deaf, community college classrooms, and pre-K-12 public and  private schools. More of our population has a bachelor’s degree or higher (47%) than ever before.

New technologies are driving massive change in the skills and knowledge required for jobs today and the future.  Collaboration between the business community, school district, and other educational institutions will enhance Olathe’s  ability to continue successfully preparing our students for the workforce of key industries.

Education is one critical component of developing, attracting, and retaining entrepreneurs and start-ups. Availability of seed capital can make or break a new business venture. Additionally, the way people like to work - especially those who are sole proprietors or have few co-workers - is changing.

Working in partnership with the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and public-private entities, we can cultivate an environment where entrepreneurs can grow and thrive.

Goals

• Lead the region in the number of highly educated and skilled people.
• Increase resources for entrepreneurs.

In 2040, the quality and variety of business, retail, and entertainment options attract visitors, residents, and business investment.

Context

Online shopping and technological innovation continually change how we shop, do business, and are entertained. We can purchase nearly everything we need online, conduct meetings via video conference calls, and connect with friends and family on social media. Still, people desire to have physical spaces to do activities like these in person. In fact, between 2012 and 2040, Johnson County is projected to have an increase of 151 percent in commercial, office, and industrial square footage.

The design and use of retail and business spaces are transforming. Retailers are embracing the trend of ‘showrooming’ - a hybrid of brick-and-mortar locations and e-commerce. Online shopping and on-demand delivery are opening the door to changes in logistics infrastructure, technology, and delivery systems.

Having places to gather to meet friends new and old is vital to our community identity and for meeting the needs of Olatheans. Throughout the Olathe 2040 planning processes, residents of all ages, top business leaders, and young professionals confirmed the desire for additional entertainment options in Olathe, including fine dining options and entertainment venues.

Goals

• Establish Olathe as the premier business, retail, and entertainment draw in the region.