FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
If there’s one thing this summer reinforced, it’s what Greater Kansas City can accomplish when we come together around a shared goal.
We welcomed the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, showcased our region on a global stage, and demonstrated the power of regional collaboration. Now, we have an opportunity to build on that momentum, and talent is a big part of what comes next.
On Wednesday, September 9, from 8:00–11:00 a.m. at Rockhurst University (Arrupe Hall, 5351 Forest Ave., KCMO), the KC Chamber will bring together business and education leaders for our Higher Education Forum: Building the Future. The event is free, and I hope you’ll join us.
Our ability to compete for investment and innovation depends on developing, attracting, and retaining talented people. And that work begins long before someone applies for a job or arrives on a college campus.
That’s why we’re bringing together the entire education-to-career pipeline. K-12 schools, higher education, employers, and policymakers all have a role in helping students see the opportunities available to them and building pathways to pursue them.
We’ll hear from leaders at Lockton Companies, University Health and Populous about what employers need from higher education, while leaders from UMKC, Rockhurst University, Kansas City University and the University of Kansas will spotlight innovation happening on their campuses.
Kansas City proved this summer that we can compete on a global stage. Now, let’s carry that ambition forward by building a talent pipeline that creates opportunity here at home and makes Greater Kansas City an even stronger place to learn, build a career and put down roots. I hope you’ll register to join us on September 9 and be part of that conversation.
WHAT MISSOURI BUSINESSES SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ADA WEBSITE LAWSUITS
Website accessibility lawsuits are becoming increasingly common, creating new concerns for businesses and organizations across Missouri. This is an issue the KC Chamber worked on alongside the Missouri Chamber and a shared legislative priority for both organizations. New state legislation aims to provide greater protection for businesses, churches and nonprofits facing predatory ADA-related website claims while continuing to support equal access to products and services.
The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host a free webinar Tuesday, August 18, at 11:00 a.m. to help organizations understand the new law, the protections it provides and practical steps they can take to reduce their risk. Missouri Chamber President and CEO Kara Corches and John Marino, Missouri SHRM State Director and partner at McMahon Berger, will explain how the legislation creates a clearer legal process for challenging abusive claims and what the changes mean for Missouri employers.
With website accessibility litigation affecting organizations of all sizes, understanding your responsibilities and the protections available under the new law can help your organization be better informed and prepared. Registration is free. Learn more and register today.
MAKE CONNECTIONS WITH GENKC
Looking for a way to get more involved in Kansas City while growing your professional network? Join genKC for KC Connections 2026 on Thursday, August 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Country Club Bank (1 Ward Pkwy., KCMO).
Designed for early career professionals, KC Connections brings together emerging leaders and some of the Kansas City region’s leading nonprofit organizations for an evening focused on community involvement and meaningful connections. Whether you’re interested in serving on a nonprofit board, finding a volunteer opportunity, or simply learning more about organizations making an impact across the region, this event offers an easy way to explore how you can get involved. It’s a fun, welcoming environment where you can expand your network while finding new ways to put your time and talents to work for Kansas City. Tickets are just $5, so register today!
BUILD BELONGING THROUGH INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE
Words matter. The language we use every day can help create workplaces where people feel respected, valued, and included. Join the KC Chamber on Wednesday, September 2, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO) for Speaking of Inclusion: Language that Builds Belonging, the second workshop in our four-part Foundations of Disability Inclusion series.
Presented in partnership with the Center for Disability Inclusion, this highly interactive session will use digital, game-based activities, group discussions, and table exercises to build a shared understanding of respectful, inclusive language around disability. Participants will gain greater confidence talking about disability with clarity and respect and learn approaches they can put into practice across teams, customer interactions, and workplace culture. Register for the September 2 workshop now!
And the learning continues this fall. On October 6, Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Myths and Realities will explore common myths and biases surrounding mental health and provide practical tools to foster a more supportive workplace. The series concludes November 3 with The Caregiver Lens: Building Empathy in the Workplace, examining how caregiver perspectives can strengthen workplace flexibility, belonging, retention, and organizational culture. Each workshop is designed for professionals across industries and organizations of all sizes, providing practical strategies to make inclusion part of everyday workplace culture.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING – NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS AND MINIATURES
Start your Friday with new connections and a little nostalgia! Join the KC Chamber for Neighborhood Networking at The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (5235 Oak St., KCMO) on Friday, September 4, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures brings together history, art, craftsmanship, and imagination through its remarkable collections. Visitors of all ages can explore galleries designed to inspire curiosity and a sense of wonder. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. with time to network with fellow KC Chamber members and guests. Following brief remarks and a raffle at 9:00 a.m., attendees can continue making connections while taking advantage of tours of the museum through 10:00 a.m.
Neighborhood Networking is designed to help you discover KC Chamber member businesses and organizations throughout the region while building relationships in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Bring your business cards, meet someone new, and experience a Kansas City destination that proves networking can come with a little fun, too. Register now!