FireBoard Labs completes $622K Kansas City expansion, scaling to meet demand for its smart tech

An entrepreneur-driven reinvestment project in the heart of metro is expected to help an innovative, Kansas City-built IoT firm expand its footprint and grow the company’s advanced smart home and temperature sensor technology, said Ted Conrad, noting the urban core was the best place to let the concept cook.

Steven Briggeman and Ted Conrad, co-founders of FireBoard Labs; Startland News photo

“Kansas City continues to provide an ideal mix of midwestern manufacturing talent combined with strong technology and engineering expertise necessary for us to continue product innovation,” said Conrad, CEO of FireBoard Labs. “Reinvesting in our downtown facility allows us to expand our capabilities while remaining committed to the community and workforce that support our success.” 

FireBoard Labs announced on Tuesday the completion of a $622,275 renovation at 501 Charlotte St. that encompasses about 15,690 square feet and includes targeted facility improvements designed to support expanded operations and future growth. The expansion also supports the retention of 16 existing jobs and the creation of five new positions in Kansas City’s Columbus Park neighborhood. 

FireBrand Labs cloud-connected thermometer technology; courtesy image

The company provides specialized laboratory and technical services — developing IoT (Internet of Things) products that make people’s lives easier and more connected. In addition to delivering advanced operational and analytical capabilities to clients, FireBoard is known widely for its cloud-connected thermometer technology and smart cooking accessories.

Its decision to expand in Columbus Park reflects the advantages of the city’s central location, access to talent, and competitive business environment that supports innovation-driven firms, regional economic development officials said.

Located within City Council District 4, the project was facilitated by the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, which supported FireBoard Labs through the Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) application process.

The EEZ program encourages reinvestment by helping existing companies modernize facilities, expand operations, and sustain long-term economic activity in targeted corridors. Projects that qualify for the program’s tax abatement may receive a standard abatement of 50 percent property tax abatement for a 10-year period for improvements made to real property.

“FireBoard Labs’ reinvestment reflects how the Enhanced Enterprise Zone program can support business expansion while strengthening economic activity in targeted areas,” said Kyana Bowers, contract compliance officer with the EDCKC. “The abatement helps offset capital improvements, enabling companies to modernize their facilities, support their workforce, and deepen their long-term commitment to Kansas City.” 

FireBoard Labs at 501 Charlotte St. in Kansas City; courtesy photo

The Charlotte Street building’s 100 history spans from a battery assembly facility, Hire’s Root Beer, Trieb Sheet Metal, and finally KC Screenprint, which operated out of the space for 20 years preceding FireBoard’s purchase of the building. 

Inside FireBoard Labs space at 501 Charlotte St. in Kansas City’s Columbus Park neighborhood; courtesy photo

“Downtown Kansas City continues to attract companies that see long-term opportunity here,” said Crispin Rea, City Councilmember for District 4. “Supporting established employers as they expand is critical to maintaining economic stability and ensuring our district remains a strong place to work and do business.” 

FireBoard Labs’ expansion reflects a broader pattern of reinvestment among companies choosing to grow within Kansas City’s urban core, said Tracey Lewis, president and CEO for EDCKC. 

As existing employers modernize facilities and strengthen operations, projects like this reinforce Kansas City’s long-term competitiveness and the importance of supporting businesses at every stage of growth, he added. 

“Economic strength is not only measured by new announcements, but by companies that choose to grow where they are,” said Lewis. “FireBoard Labs’ reinvestment underscores the importance of supporting existing employers as they modernize and expand in Kansas City.”