FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
For more than five decades, the Kansas City Royals and Hallmark have each helped define Kansas City in their own way. Now, those two iconic institutions are coming together in a way that not only honors our past but signals a bold and exciting future for our region.
The announced partnership to bring a new downtown ballpark to Crown Center is more than a step forward; it is a transformational opportunity. Anchored by a stadium and surrounded by a vibrant mixed-use district, this vision has the potential to reconnect key parts of our urban core, reimagine Crown Center for a new generation, and create a dynamic center of energy for residents, visitors, and businesses. Just as important, it reflects a thoughtful public-private partnership designed to leverage significant private investment while reducing the burden on taxpayers.
What makes this moment especially powerful is what it represents for the entire Kansas City region.
We are seeing a future take shape where both of our major league teams are positioned to thrive. The Kansas City Chiefs are planning their next chapter in Kansas City, Kansas, while the Royals advance an exciting vision in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. This is a reflection of a region working together, leveraging the strengths of both states to compete and win.
This is about more than sports. It is about economic momentum, job creation, and creating places that attract people and opportunity. There is important work ahead, and details will continue to evolve. When we align across state lines and sectors, we unlock possibilities that benefit the entire region.
The KC Chamber will continue to advocate for these projects and public-private partnerships that strengthen our region and the future we are building together.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION VIRTUAL TOP 10 CEO PANEL & AWARDS LUNCHEONS
Two key events are coming up, offering the chance to learn from and honor the leaders driving Kansas City’s small business success and fueling our region’s momentum.
Don’t wait to secure your spot for the Virtual Top 10 CEO Panel on Tuesday, May 5, from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. This dynamic online event brings together the CEOs of our 2026 Top 10 Small Businesses to share the journeys behind their success. During this fast-paced, moderated discussion, each leader will offer candid insights into the challenges they’ve faced, the strategies that have fueled their growth, and the lessons learned along the way. As finalists for the prestigious “Mr. K” Small Business of the Year Award, these companies represent the very best of Kansas City’s entrepreneurial spirit. Register now!
Then, join us in person for the Small Business Celebration Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, May 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Loews Kansas City Hotel (1515 Wyandotte St., KCMO). Presented by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, this high-energy finale brings the business community together to recognize the Top 10 Small Businesses and announce the 2026 “Mr. K” Small Business of the Year. Additional honors, including the Emerging Business Award, the Small Business Spirit of Inclusion Award, and more, highlight the depth and diversity of entrepreneurial excellence across our region. Register today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT SAMUEL U. RODGERS HEALTH CENTER
Start your morning with meaningful connections at the next Neighborhood Networking event on Friday, May 8, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. Hosted by the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center (825 Euclid Ave., KCMO), this event offers an opportunity to engage with fellow members of the business community while learning more about an organization that has delivered high-quality, compassionate, and affordable health care to Kansas City families since 1968.
You’ll enjoy open networking, brief remarks, and the chance to build relationships in a welcoming, community-centered environment. Whether you’re looking to expand your network or reconnect with familiar faces, this is an easy and impactful way to stay engaged. Join us and be part of the conversation shaping Kansas City’s business and community landscape. Register today!
CENTURIONS APPLICATION WORKSHOP AND Q&A
If you’re considering applying for the KC Chamber’s Centurions Leadership Program, this workshop is your next step. Join us on Wednesday, May 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Made in KC – Lenexa Marketplace (8703 Penrose Ln., Lenexa) for a Centurions Application Workshop and Q&A designed to help you navigate the process with confidence.
This interactive session offers prospective applicants the opportunity to learn more about the program, gain insight into what makes a strong application, and ask questions directly of those involved in the selection process. Centurions is a two-year leadership development program focused on civic engagement and community impact, preparing emerging leaders to take on meaningful roles across the Kansas City region.
Whether you’re ready to apply or simply exploring the opportunity, this workshop provides valuable guidance to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Register today!
EDUCATION DATA FOR ACTION SUMMIT
What’s happening in Kansas City classrooms today will define the strength of our region tomorrow. Join the KC Chamber and SchoolSmartKC on Thursday, May 28, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. for the Education Data for Action Summit, a powerful conversation focused on student achievement across public education in our region.
This interactive session brings together business leaders, educators, policymakers, and community partners to examine the latest data, share insights, and identify opportunities for meaningful action. Participants will explore how student outcomes connect directly to workforce readiness and long-term economic growth, while gaining a clearer understanding of where progress is being made and where challenges remain.
Held in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO), this free event offers a unique opportunity to be part of the conversation and help shape solutions that strengthen both our education system and our regional economy. Register here to join the discussion.