Two Arts Powerhouses, One Roof

Scott

McDowell

September 12, 2025

resource

Update

event

FAI 2024

NEWS

Partner

Region

KANSAS CITY, MO, September 12, 2025 — Kansas City’s Crossroads Arts District has a new story to tell: Folk Alliance International (FAI) has moved into office space with Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA) at 2018 Baltimore Avenue.

This isn’t just a change of address—it’s the result of a thoughtful, months-long conversation sparked by FAI’s expiring lease and a shared belief in reinvented, collaborative workspaces. As the nature of office life continues to evolve—favoring flexible, creative, and community-oriented environments—it made sense for FAI to explore new possibilities. Now hosted under M-AAA’s roof in a long-term arrangement, both organizations gain a renewed opportunity to collaborate and grow. The organizations will still operate as independent nonprofits, just now co-working, sharing the same office space.

Folk Alliance International, an international arts nonprofit and NEA-designated National Arts Service Organization, serves, strengthens, and engages the global folk music community through preservation, presentation, and promotion. The Annual Folk Alliance International Conference is the largest gathering of the folk music industry in the world. From Americana and blues to Indigenous music, global roots, and spoken word, FAI uplifts a wide spectrum of traditions and connects artists with audiences around the world.

Mid-America Arts Alliance, meanwhile, has spent more than 50 years empowering artists and cultural organizations across six states: Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond. Guided by the belief that art is a catalyst for expression, connection, and collaboration, M-AAA’s mission is to strengthen and support artists, cultural organizations, and communities while expanding access to creativity.

“This move is about collaboration and inspiration,” says Alex Mallett, FAI’s deputy director. “It’s an invitation to explore what we can do when we’re in the same creative orbit and inspiring each other with each organizations’ programs and services. Both organizations thrive on collaboration, so we’re excited to find organic ways to serve our shared missions.”

Deborah McNulty, vice president of M-AAA, reflects on the deeper significance: “Housing FAI within our building isn’t just about office space—it’s about resources and innovation. Together, we can expand audiences, spark new ideas, and strengthen Kansas City’s reputation as a hub for both regional, national, and international arts.”

For Folk Alliance members, this relocation is a chance to re-establish a clear footprint in Kansas City—and to reassure the community: yes, we’re still here. With both regional roots and global reach, these organizations are positioned to amplify programming, energize First Friday events, and explore new collaborative ventures together.

Stay tuned for more exciting news. Visit M-AAA during the Crossroads Arts Districts' First Friday event in October.

About Mid-America Arts Alliance

Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA) partners with and supports artists, organizations, and communities to grow access to the arts, culture, and creativity throughout Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond. To learn more about M-AAA grants, programs, exhibitions, and fellowships, visit www.maaa.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, Threads, and LinkedIn.

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