FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
June 11 marked the official one-year countdown to FIFA World Cup 26™ coming to Kansas City, and I can’t help but feel a surge of pride and excitement. Our region is now officially on the clock, and I invite you to visit Union Station to see the countdown clock marking time until the world’s biggest sporting event kicks off across North America. The clock was unveiled as part of the global “One Year to Go” celebration, with similar countdowns revealed in all 16 Host Cities.
Adding to the momentum, KC2026 this past week also announced their first Official Kansas City World Cup 2026 Host City Supporters: Populous and Nestlé Purina PetCare.
From June 16 through July 11, 2026, Kansas City will host six thrilling matches, including a quarterfinal, spotlighting our world-class hospitality, infrastructure, and community spirit. This is about more than soccer. It’s a once-in-a-generation chance to showcase our economic strength, support local businesses, highlight our skilled workforce, and raise Kansas City’s global profile.
That energy continues building toward Sunday, June 22, with the Kansas City Kickoff Community Event at Aspiria Campus in Overland Park (6240 Sprint Pkwy.), from noon–5 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration will feature live music, food trucks, interactive games, volunteer info, local vendors, and official World Cup experiences, including the mini pop-up pitch, athlete appearances, countdown clock photo ops, and more. Everyone is welcome, so bring kids, neighbors, and fans of all ages.
I encourage each of you to join us and explore how your business, your family, your city can get involved, whether through volunteering, partnerships, sponsorships, or simply showing up to cheer. We’re not just counting down. We’re building the momentum that will carry Kansas City into the global spotlight.
KANSAS LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP LUNCHEON
You’re invited to the annual Kansas Legislative Wrap-Up Luncheon on Wednesday, June 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Fiorella’s Event Space in Overland Park (9000 W 137th St). This signature public policy event offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from Kansas legislative leaders about the outcomes of the 2025 session and their implications for our region. Featured speakers include Speaker Dan Hawkins and Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, among others. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the legislative decisions that impact businesses and communities in Kansas City.
Tickets are priced at $65 for Chamber members and $85 for non-members. Public Policy Council members can attend for free with their 2025 promo code. To secure your spot at this informative event, please register here.
EDUCATION DATA FOR ACTION SUMMIT
The KC Chamber invites you to the Education Data for Action Summit on Thursday, June 26, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). This pivotal event will delve into the latest system-wide data on student achievement across Kansas City’s public education landscape. Attendees will gain insights into how current classroom outcomes are shaping the region’s workforce and economic prospects. The summit aims to foster collaboration among business leaders, policymakers, funders, and educators, culminating in clear, actionable strategies to support student learning and regional growth. Admission is free, but registration is required. Secure your spot and be part of the conversation driving Kansas City’s educational and economic future.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING – UNITED WAY OF GREATER KANSAS CITY
With a pulse on what our neighborhoods need most, United Way is the go-to partner for local change makers or, as they call them, Waymakers. Their mission is to inspire and empower this growing community of leaders, helping forge a united path forward where everyone in our region can thrive in health, education, and financial stability. You’ll get a first-hand look at United Way’s location at 4801 Main Street, Ste. 425, a purpose-driven space designed to spark collaboration, innovation, and impact.
Neighborhood Networking is the KC Chamber’s signature morning mixer, offering the perfect mix of meaningful connection and relaxed conversation. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, reconnect with peers, or learn more about community initiatives, this event is for you. It’s free for KC Chamber members, and $15 for non-members. Register now and be part of the conversation that’s building a stronger Kansas City.
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, UMB Bank.
POWER OF DIVERSITY
Make your plans now to attend the KC Chamber’s POWER of Diversity Awards on Friday, July 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., spotlighting the individuals and organizations leading the way in workplace equity and inclusion. This year’s event includes a powerful keynote from Jennifer Brown, bestselling author of How to Be an Inclusive Leader. A dynamic and globally recognized voice on workplace inclusion, Jennifer will share practical insights on leading with authenticity and building cultures of belonging.
We will also honor champions of inclusion with the following awards:
- Ace Awards: Recognizing rising professionals breaking barriers in their organizations and communities.
- Champion of Diversity: Celebrating organizations embedding inclusion into hiring, culture, and community impact.
Whether you’re advancing cultures of welcoming and belonging for all or seeking inspiration to begin, this is the region’s must-attend event for inclusive leadership. Join us and help shape a stronger, more inclusive Kansas City. Learn more and register now!
