Over the past decade, Kansas City successfully transformed itself into a leader in the telecommunications revolution. As a result, the area saw great increases in population, new construction, and high-tech jobs. Unfortunately, the telecom market eventually dried up. And while Kansas City was forced to deal with the economic fallout, in some ways, the setback was a blessing in disguise. The negative trend invigorated the business community and gave the city an opportunity to reevaluate its vision for the future.

Today Kansas City continues to embrace the new economy, but has renewed its commitment to its solid non-tech firms. The city believes a mix of innovation and tradition is the best foundation for a prosperous tomorrow. And as it transitions into the new millennium, Kansas City continues to rely on the strong firms that have helped shape its economy for decades. They include:

Hallmark Cards, Inc.: The greeting-card leader has sales of $4.2 billion and ranks 32nd among the world’s largest privately held companies.

H&R Block: The country's largest tax preparation firm was founded in Kansas City in 1955 and today employs more than 86,500 people serving more than 17 million taxpayers in 15 countries. H&R Block recently announced their intention to build a 500,000 square foot headquarters in the downtown South Loop area. This building will be part of an entertainment district of up to 425,000 square feet to be developed by Baltimore-based Cordish Co.

Kansas City Southern Industries: This diversified transportation company has aggressively developed rail connections between the American Southwest and Mexico.

Interstate Bakeries: The Kansas City-based maker of Twinkies and Wonder Bread is the nation's largest distributor of fresh branded breads and cake. With 70 bakeries in the United States and 34,000 employees, Interstate generates sales of about $3.5 billion annually.

Aquila: This FORTUNE 500 firm provides energy services to more than four million electric and gas utility customers in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia. The company is among the top three wholesalers of natural gas and electric energy in the country.

United Parcel Service: The world's largest package distribution company moved its regional headquarters to the Kansas City area. It has revenues of $27 billion.