Kansas City, January 9, 2026
Busey Bank is enhancing its local presence in Kansas City through the acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares and a partnership with the Big 12 Conference. The merger aims to bolster the financial landscape, providing greater resources for local businesses and contributing positively to the Kansas City economy. The partnership with the Big 12 marks a significant step towards community engagement and brand recognition in key markets, highlighting Busey Bank’s commitment to supporting economic growth in the region.
Kansas City: Busey Bank Boosts Local Presence, Joins Big 12 Conference
Kansas City is a vibrant hub where entrepreneurial spirit and community engagement consistently drive economic vitality. In a significant move set to further bolster the region’s business landscape, Busey Bank has made strategic advancements, including a major acquisition and a landmark partnership with the Big 12 Conference. These developments underscore the power of private investment and strategic growth in fostering new opportunities for local businesses and residents across the Kansas City metro area.
The recent expansion by Busey Bank demonstrates a commitment to high-growth markets and the pursuit of innovation in financial services. Such initiatives often translate into enhanced resources for Kansas City MO business owners, offering expanded access to capital and specialized financial expertise. This strategic foresight aligns with a vision of limited regulatory hurdles, enabling businesses to adapt and thrive, ultimately contributing to a robust Kansas City economy.
A Strategic Acquisition for Regional Reach
First Busey Corporation, the holding company for Busey Bank, finalized its acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc., the holding company for CrossFirst Bank, on March 1, 2025. This all-stock transaction was valued at approximately $916.8 million. This strategic merger marks the largest in Busey’s 157-year history. Busey will operate CrossFirst Bank as a separate banking subsidiary until its planned merger with Busey Bank, expected in June 2025. Following this integration, all CrossFirst Bank locations will transition to operating under the Busey Bank brand.
The combined entity now possesses approximately $20 billion in total assets, $17 billion in total deposits, and $15 billion in total loans, serving clients from 77 locations across 10 states. This expansion significantly extends Busey’s regional operating model into high-growth metropolitan markets, including Kansas City, Wichita, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, and Phoenix. Such consolidations often represent the entrepreneurial drive to scale operations and enhance service offerings, a positive indicator for market dynamism.
Strengthening Kansas City’s Financial Landscape
The acquisition has a direct and meaningful impact on the Kansas City economy. Prior to the acquisition, CrossFirst Bank was headquartered in Leawood, Kansas. Following the merger, First Busey Corporation, the holding company, will relocate its headquarters to Leawood, Kansas, placing it centrally within the combined company’s expansive footprint in the Kansas City metro area. While Busey Bank’s headquarters remains in Champaign, Illinois, the holding company’s move to Leawood underscores the strategic importance of the Kansas City region to the newly expanded financial institution.
This increased presence by a major financial institution offers enhanced financial services and potentially greater access to capital for Kansas City small business owners and Missouri MO entrepreneurs. Busey Bank already maintains a presence in the area with a Kansas City Plaza banking center located at 4622 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO 64112. The integration of CrossFirst’s existing branches will further solidify Busey’s commitment to the local community, fostering an environment ripe for business growth and individual achievement.
Big 12 Partnership: A Boost for Community and Commerce
Further solidifying its presence and community engagement, Busey Bank announced a multi-year partnership with the Big 12 Conference on January 5, 2026. This agreement designates Busey Bank as the Official Bank of the Big 12, marking the first official banking partner in the league’s history. This partnership aims to connect communities across the Big 12’s broad geographic reach while enhancing Busey Bank’s brand recognition in key markets.
Busey Bank will participate in various conference events and initiatives throughout the year, including championship games, fan experiences, and community outreach programs. This engagement provides unique opportunities to interact with students and alumni from universities across the nation, further spotlighting Busey Bank’s dedication to fostering growth and opportunity within its 10-state, 87-location footprint. For Kansas City, a city deeply intertwined with the Big 12, this partnership signals additional investment and community involvement from a significant financial player.
The Enduring Impact of Collegiate Sports in the Heartland
Kansas City has a long-standing and critical relationship with the Big 12 Conference, serving as the host city for the men’s and women’s basketball championships at the T-Mobile Center through 2031. Kansas City has hosted the men’s tournament 23 times, more than any other city. These events routinely draw thousands of visitors to Downtown Kansas City, providing a substantial economic boost for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.
The Big 12 championships contribute significantly to Midlands economic growth. The 2024 men’s and women’s tournaments were projected to generate an estimated $32 million economic impact across the Kansas City region. More specifically, the 2025 men’s tournament alone was estimated to have a direct economic impact of $23 million, with the women’s tournament projected to add another $10.7 million. Busey Bank’s involvement as the official bank of the Big 12 further solidifies this economic cornerstone for Kansas City, enhancing community spirit and supporting local commerce through increased visibility and engagement.
Fostering Innovation and Opportunity
The strategic moves by Busey Bank, encompassing both its expansion through acquisition and its high-profile partnership with the Big 12, are indicative of a dynamic private sector driving economic progress. Such developments provide substantial opportunities for Kansas City MO business entities, particularly Kansas City small business owners and Missouri MO entrepreneurs. The expanded financial resources and increased market reach can empower local innovators, allowing them to scale their operations, create jobs, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.
A thriving financial sector, complemented by major community partnerships, creates a fertile ground for sustained economic development. It offers a clear pathway for individuals and businesses to achieve their goals, reinforcing the notion that strategic private investment and active community participation are key ingredients for a flourishing Kansas City economy.
Conclusion
The recent acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares by First Busey Corporation, and Busey Bank’s subsequent partnership with the Big 12 Conference, represent significant milestones for Kansas City and the broader Midwest region. These strategic actions are poised to enhance the financial infrastructure available to Kansas City small business owners and Missouri MO entrepreneurs, fostering a climate of growth and innovation. The strengthened financial services and increased community engagement through sports partnerships contribute directly to the Kansas City economy and reinforce the region’s position as a dynamic center for business and community life. We encourage all readers to support local businesses and stay engaged in the exciting economic future of Kansas City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the value of Busey Bank’s acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares?
Busey Bank’s acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc. was an all-stock deal valued at approximately $916.8 million.
When did the acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares by First Busey Corporation become effective?
The acquisition of CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc. by First Busey Corporation was completed on March 1, 2025.
When is CrossFirst Bank expected to merge with Busey Bank?
CrossFirst Bank is expected to merge with Busey Bank in June 2025.
What are the combined total assets of the merged company (Busey Bank and CrossFirst Bank)?
The combined company has approximately $20 billion in total assets.
Where will First Busey Corporation’s headquarters be located after the acquisition?
First Busey Corporation’s headquarters will move to Leawood, Kansas, in the Kansas City metro area.
Where will Busey Bank’s headquarters remain?
Busey Bank’s headquarters will remain in Champaign, Illinois.
When did Busey Bank announce its partnership with the Big 12 Conference?
Busey Bank announced its multi-year partnership with the Big 12 Conference on January 5, 2026.
What is Busey Bank’s designation with the Big 12 Conference?
Busey Bank has been designated as the Official Bank of the Big 12 Conference, making it the first official banking partner in the league’s history.
What is the projected economic impact of the 2025 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament in Kansas City?
The 2025 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament in Kansas City was estimated to have a direct economic impact of $23 million.
How many times has Kansas City hosted the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament?
Kansas City has hosted the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament 23 times.
Key Features of Busey Bank’s Expansion and Partnership
| Feature | Details | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Acquisition Target | CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc. | Nationwide |
| Acquisition Value | Approximately $916.8 million (all-stock deal) | Nationwide |
| Acquisition Effective Date | March 1, 2025 | Nationwide |
| Expected Bank Merger Date | June 2025 | Nationwide |
| Combined Total Assets | Approximately $20 billion | Nationwide |
| Combined Total Deposits | Approximately $17 billion | Nationwide |
| Combined Total Loans | Approximately $15 billion | Nationwide |
| Operating Locations | 77 locations across 10 states | Nationwide |
| First Busey Corporation Headquarters (Post-Acquisition) | Leawood, Kansas (Kansas City metro area) | State-level (Kansas) |
| Busey Bank Headquarters | Champaign, Illinois | State-level (Illinois) |
| Big 12 Partnership Announcement | January 5, 2026 | Nationwide |
| Big 12 Partnership Designation | Official Bank of the Big 12 Conference (first in league history) | Nationwide |
| Big 12 Basketball Championships Host City | Kansas City, MO (through 2031) | State-level (Missouri) |
| Projected Economic Impact (2025 Big 12 Men’s Tournament) | $23 million (direct impact) | State-level (Missouri) |
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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
