FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
If you’ve visited the KC Chamber offices over the years, you know we’ve been fortunate to call one of Kansas City’s most iconic buildings home. Like the region we serve, even great spaces must evolve to meet the needs of the future.
Starting next week, the KC Chamber’s offices on the southwest corner of Union Station’s third floor will temporarily close as renovations begin. Throughout August, our staff will work primarily remotely while continuing to deliver the responsive service our members expect. In September, we’ll relocate just across the hall to temporary office space in the former FIFA World Cup 26™ Volunteer Center on the southeast corner of Union Station’s third floor while construction continues.
While our location will change for a few months, our mission will not. We’ll continue advocating for a stronger regional economy, convening business and civic leaders, supporting entrepreneurs, developing future leaders, and creating opportunities for our members to connect and grow. Our events, programs, and advocacy efforts will continue uninterrupted, and our team will remain just a phone call or email away.
Our temporary home carries special meaning. Just weeks ago, it served as headquarters for the volunteers who welcomed the world to Kansas City during FIFA World Cup 26™. Collaboration, service, and regional pride defined that space, and we’re proud to carry that same spirit forward as it becomes a new hub for the Chamber’s work.
Thank you for your patience and flexibility throughout this transition. We look forward to welcoming you into our refreshed office around the first of the year — a modernized space designed to better support our members, our staff, and the important work of strengthening Greater Kansas City’s future.
FOUNDATIONS OF DISABILITY INCLUSION WORKSHOP SERIES
There’s still time to register for the first session of the KC Chamber and Center for Disability Inclusion’s free, four-part Foundations of Disability Inclusion workshop series, part of the 2026 Inclusive Leadership Workshop Series. Designed for professionals across all industries, the series provides practical tools to help organizations foster belonging, strengthen workplace culture, and support employees of all abilities.
The series begins Tuesday, August 4, with Building Blocks of Disability Inclusion: Myths, Etiquette & Everyday Practice, an interactive workshop that lays the foundation for understanding disability inclusion in today’s workplace. Additional sessions will explore inclusive language (September 2), mental health awareness (October 6), and supporting caregivers in the workplace (November 3). While each workshop can be attended individually, participating in the full series offers the greatest opportunity to build lasting knowledge and practical skills.
All sessions are held from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room inside Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO), and registration is free. Don’t miss your opportunity to join the first session on August 4. Learn more and register through the KC Chamber’s event calendar.
PUT AI TO WORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS THIS AUGUST
The first — and most immediate — is AI Training for Regional Kansas City Small Businesses on Thursday, August 6, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the KC Chamber Board Room inside Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO, first floor). Presented in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and supported by Google, this free Small Business B(AI)sics workshop is designed specifically for entrepreneurs and small business owners with little or no AI experience. Participants will learn practical ways to use AI to improve marketing and customer engagement, streamline operations, boost productivity, and make better business decisions. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet and come prepared with questions about their business. Space is limited, so register today.
Then, continue your AI journey on Tuesday, August 11, with Make AI Work for You, a follow-up program at the Delta Athenaeum and DEED Foundation (900 Linwood Blvd, KCMO) that explores how organizations can move beyond the basics to integrate AI into everyday workflows and maximize its business value. Learn more about this virtual Grow with Google session for the #MakeAIWorkForYou US tour and register now.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT PAWSPERITY
Start your Friday with meaningful conversations and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s most inspiring organizations during Neighborhood Networking at Pawsperity on Friday, August 7, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Open to KC Chamber members and nonmembers alike, this popular networking event offers an opportunity to build new professional relationships while learning how Pawsperity is empowering parents to overcome generational poverty through free job training in the art of dog grooming and life skills development. Since 2016, the organization has helped hundreds of students build sustainable careers and brighter futures for their families. Join us to expand your network, enjoy a welcoming morning with fellow professionals, and experience the impact of this remarkable Kansas City nonprofit firsthand. Learn more and register today!
STATE OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Public safety is fundamental to a strong economy, a thriving workforce, and vibrant communities. That’s why the KC Chamber is proud to support the Kansas City Public Safety Coalition and its efforts to foster collaboration among public safety agencies, businesses, elected officials, and community leaders across the region.
Registration is now open for the 2026 State of Public Safety, taking place Thursday, August 20, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. This virtual program will feature leaders from law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, and other public safety organizations as they discuss the issues impacting our region, highlight innovative partnerships, and share how collaboration is helping build a safer, stronger Greater Kansas City.
Whether you’re a business leader, nonprofit partner, neighborhood advocate, or engaged resident, you’ll gain valuable insight into the strategies, challenges, and successes shaping public safety across the metropolitan area. Learn more and reserve your spot by registering today.