FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
One of the best parts of my job is celebrating the incredible businesses that help drive the Kansas City region forward. And this is one of my favorite times of the year — when we get to shine a spotlight on the smaller companies making a real difference in our community. Today, I’m honored to congratulate the KC Chamber’s 2025 Top 10 Small Businesses:
- Café Corazon
- Cenetric Network Services
- DMC Services
- Fresco Marketing
- Holland 1916
- IBC
- Perfect Promotions
- Resolve Counseling
- Taliaferro & Browne
- Woodside Health Club
These remarkable businesses represent the very best of Kansas City’s small business community — innovation, resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to making our region better for everyone. Their stories inspire us and remind us that entrepreneurship, at its core, is about building something lasting and meaningful.
I hope you’ll take the opportunity to hear directly from these incredible leaders during our Virtual Small Business Celebration Top 10 CEO Panel on Friday, May 30, from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. They’ll share real stories, lessons learned, and what it takes to grow a successful business in today’s ever-changing world. You can register here. (Sponsors and Top 10 only are in-person due to limited seating.)
Kansas City’s future is bright because of businesses like these. Let’s keep the celebration going as we head toward the Small Business Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, June 17. I can’t wait to see what’s next as the best is truly yet to come.
10TH ANNUAL HEALTHY KC VENDOR EXPO
On Thursday, May 8, the KC Chamber will host the 10th Annual Healthy KC Vendor Expo at Union Station. The event begins at 8 a.m. with a program recognizing companies that have achieved 2024 Workplace Wellness Certification, exemplifying excellence in Personal Health Resources, Psychosocial Work Environment, Enterprise Community Involvement, and Work Environment.
Following the recognition ceremony, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., attendees can explore the vendor expo in the Grand Plaza. The expo offers opportunities to network with wellness professionals and organizations dedicated to promoting health in the workplace. Join us at Union Station to celebrate and connect with leaders in workplace wellness. Learn more and register today!
Thank you to all our sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, for making this event possible.
CENTURIONS INFORMATION SESSION AND APPLICATION WORKSHOP
Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level? Learn more about the KC Chamber’s Centurions Leadership Program — and how to apply — at two upcoming opportunities:
- Information Session | Wednesday, May 14, 4:30–7:30 p.m. | Polsinelli (900 W. 48th Pl., Ste.900, KCMO)
Get an insider’s view of what it means to be a Centurion. Current Centurions will share their experiences, offer insights about cohort options, and answer your questions about the program’s impact and expectations. Register now! - Application Workshop | Thursday, May 22, 12–2 p.m. | KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO)
If you’re preparing to apply, this in-person workshop will walk you through the application process, offering tips for creating a strong submission and details about program commitments. You’ll also hear directly from current participants about how Centurions has shaped their leadership journeys. Register today!
Whether you’re just starting to explore the program or ready to submit your application, we’re here to help you every step of the way!
HEADS UP NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING FANS
Please note this is a different venue than previously advertised. Start your Friday with purpose! Join us for Neighborhood Networking on Friday, May 9, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m., hosted by The Gallery Event Space, 61 E. 14th St. in the Power & Light District downtown. The Gallery is a gem, located above the Bristol, in the heart of all the action in KC’s bustling downtown. This event is free for Chamber members, and $15 for nonmembers. Please park in the Cosentino’s Garage at 1226 Main St.; enter off Walnut or Main Street between 12th and 13th Streets. Bring your parking ticket with you to The Gallery for validation. Register today!
Thank you to our 2025 Networking Sponsors: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Delta Dental, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Southwest Airlines, and UMB Bank.
POWER OF DIVERSITY
Who’s opening doors, breaking barriers, and creating a Greater Kansas City where everyone can thrive? Now’s your chance to help them get the recognition they deserve. Nominations and applications are officially open for the 2025 POWER of Diversity Awards – the region’s leading celebration of leadership that drives real change. Each year, we honor the individuals and organizations who are transforming workplaces and communities into places where all voices are heard, valued, and empowered. We need your help to shine a light on this important work:- ACE Awards: By the extended May 2 deadline, nominate a mid-to-senior level professional who is championing access to opportunity and expanding what’s possible for others.
- Champion of Diversity Award: Apply by May 16 if your organization is intentionally building an inclusive culture through hiring, partnerships, and employee engagement.
