All too often, companies complain about government regulations and red tape. But in many communities, partnerships among businesses and state and local governments are so vital. Custom Foods, De Soto, Kas., broke ground this summer on a 27,000-square-foot expansion that will triple capacity and create a footprint with the potential to increase sales by 600% over time.

The frozen dough manufacturer relied on partnerships with the De Soto Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council (E.D.C.) to navigate the process leading up the ground breaking in July. The De Soto E.D.C. assisted Custom Foods at both the local and state levels by guiding the bakery through the development process, including sharing contacts and resources and identifying any potential hurdles ahead of time.

“By providing this support, Custom Foods was able to take advantage of specific incentives that the company might otherwise not been aware of,” said Sara Ritter, executive director of the De Soto Chamber of Commerce and E.D.C. Custom Foods garnered significant, long-term tax benefits by working with local agencies.

“The government here is always looking for growth, so they’re willing to work with businesses to get things done,” said John Khoury, Custom Foods president and co-owner.