FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of our region’s most influential leadership programs: the 50th anniversary of Centurions. For five decades, Centurions has helped shape Kansas City’s civic and business landscape by developing leaders committed to learning, service, and action. The ripple effect is visible across our region — in boardrooms and classrooms, nonprofits and neighborhoods — wherever alumni have stepped up, raised their hands, and helped move Kansas City forward with nearly 2,000 regional leaders having graduated from the program.
To honor this Golden Legacy, we’re planning a signature anniversary celebration presented by Commerce Bank this fall at Union Station, a reception-style evening designed to celebrate the people behind the legacy, the relationships built through shared service, and the scholarship impact that continues to open doors for emerging leaders.
Just as important, the 50th anniversary will include a legacy service effort centered on Spring Valley Park, supporting long-term volunteer engagement, park clean-ups, new plantings and maintenance, and educational partnerships that honor community leader Bernard Powell. That work reflects what Centurions has always represented: leadership rooted in service and connection to place.
Throughout the year, you’ll also see Centurion stories highlighting early classes, multi-generational alumni, Bernard Powell Award recipients, and bold ideas for how we keep building a stronger Kansas City.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to grow your leadership, expand your network, and deepen your understanding of the issues and opportunities shaping our region, I encourage you to learn more about Centurions by attending the upcoming Centurions Information Session on Thursday, February 12, from 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
Congratulations to Centurions on 50 years of developing leaders who strengthen our region, and here’s to many more years of service, connection, and impact ahead.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION AWARDS & CANDIDATES’ SHOWCASE
February 18 is almost here (a little more than a week away), and if you’ve been meaning to apply for the KC Chamber’s Small Business Celebration Awards, this is your “stop thinking about it and hit submit” moment. Award applications are open now, but the window is closing fast. Start today, be specific, and let your impact shine before the deadline.
We encourage you to apply if your business is headquartered in the KC metro, has 250 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, and will be a KC Chamber member by the time you apply. Eligible companies may apply for multiple awards, including Mr. K Small Business of the Year, Emerging Business, Small Business Spirit of Inclusion, Weida International Small Business, Legacy of Kansas City, and the Luminary Arts & Creative Small Business Award. Don’t wait until the last minute—applications are due February 18, so learn more and apply now.
Then, we invite you to meet the candidates and experience the energy of this program firsthand by joining us for the Small Business Celebration Candidates’ Showcase on Wednesday, March 4, from 5:00–7:30 p.m. in the Grand Plaza at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). Meet and network with applicants for the 2026 Small Business of the Year Award as they host display tables featuring their products, services, and company culture. Tickets are $10 per person and include two drink tickets and food options. Register now!
STATE OF SERIES: HEALTHCARE – VIRTUAL OPTION
The State of Series: Healthcare event on Thursday, February 19, from 8:00–10:00 a.m. explores the rapid evolution of healthcare—from research and patient care to access, innovation, and workforce dynamics—and brings together Kansas City–area healthcare leaders for a timely discussion that matters to every employer, employee, and community member. The in-person option is sold out, but virtual registration remains open so you can participate live online and stay connected to the ideas shaping one of the region’s largest economic sectors. Register for the virtual option now!
DOING BUSINESS IN LATVIA
The World Trade Center–Kansas City and the Latvian Chamber of Commerce are hosting Doing Business with Latvia on Wednesday, February 25, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the Chairman’s Conference Room at the KC Chamber offices on the 3rd floor of Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). This session will offer an overview of Latvia’s economic landscape, key industries, and market trends, as well as practical insights into how Kansas City–based businesses can engage with Latvian partners and explore transatlantic trade and investment opportunities, whether you’re new to exporting or seeking to grow into the Baltic region. Attendees will gain valuable information to inform international strategy and connect with global partners. Register today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING: MESSENGER COFFEE
Neighborhood Networking is excited to invite members to start the day building meaningful relationships and exchanging ideas at Messenger Coffee Co. (1624 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO) from 8:30–10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 27. Enjoy casual networking, hear brief remarks and a fun raffle, and take a behind-the-scenes look at one of Kansas City’s beloved coffee makers that sources exceptional, ethically grown beans. This is a great opportunity to forge new connections, strengthen community ties, and broaden your professional network. Register now!
And thank you to our 2026 Networking Sponsors: Accenture, Allo Business, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Delta Dental, EAG Advertising & Marketing, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and UMB Bank.