Why Kansas City?

Kansas City is more than a host city — it’s a case study in how design, development, community investment, and public-private partnerships can redefine what’s possible in sports and entertainment infrastructure.

A Global Center for Sports & Entertainment Architecture

Kansas City is widely regarded as the “sports architecture capital of the world.” Many leading architecture, engineering, and construction firms specializing in stadiums and arenas are headquartered there. These firms have designed a large portion of collegiate and professional sports venues across the United States, making the city a central hub for innovation in venue design and development. Because the CSEF Conference focuses on the development and design of sports and entertainment facilities, hosting the event in Kansas City places attendees directly within the industry ecosystem shaping these projects.

• KC has been the epicenter of sports architecture for over 50 years, influencing the design of collegiate and professional venues across the U.S.*
• Approximately 75% of all collegiate and professional stadiums and arenas in the country were designed by Kansas City–area firms**.

*Kansas City: The Story Of The Sports Architecture Capital Of The World
**KC Global Design highlights KC as hub for design and construction community

Real-World Case Studies in Venue Development

Kansas City itself serves as a living example of successful sports and entertainment development, with notable projects such as:

• Kansas City Current Stadium — the first-ever purpose-built stadium for a women’s professional sports team.
• Power & Light District — a landmark P3 development that catalyzed $5B in downtown revitalization, including major cultural, residential, and entertainment projects.
• T-Mobile Center, Arrowhead Stadium, Kauffman Stadium, Children’s Mercy Park — all showcasing Kansas City’s leadership in venue innovation.

A Major Sports Destination on the Global Stage

Kansas City has a strong sports culture and world-class facilities, attracting national and global sporting events. The city is also a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting its international recognition as a sports destination and its investment in sports infrastructure.

Perfect Alignment with CSEF’s Community

The CSEF Conference brings together developers, venue operators, designers, and public officials to discuss sports infrastructure, entertainment districts, and urban development. Kansas City embodies these themes through its projects, partnerships, and innovation in sports and entertainment development. 

All within a city that embodies what our event is about: innovation, partnership, and the future of sports, entertainment, and venue development.