FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
Each year, the Chiefs Kickoff Luncheon is a reminder of what makes Kansas City such a special community. Last Thursday’s event at the Loews Kansas City Hotel was another massive celebration, bringing together fans, business leaders, and the entire Chiefs roster to launch the 2025-2026 season. For decades, this luncheon has been a tradition that unites the Kingdom, and it was inspiring once again to hear from team leadership about the future ahead, celebrate their championship legacy, and feel the energy of a room filled with red. The Chamber is proud to partner with the Chiefs on this event, and we appreciate their long-term commitment to KC.
And speaking of The Kingdom, I encourage you to take time to watch the new ESPN documentary series when you get a chance. It’s a powerful reminder of the pride, history, and passion that define Chiefs Kingdom and it’s the perfect way to get pumped up for the season ahead.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Red Friday is just around the corner, when flag sales across the region will raise vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City. It’s one more way the Chiefs demonstrate their commitment to families and to strengthening our community. And as game days approach, let’s continue to light up our skyline and landmarks in red, showing the world what true hometown pride looks like.
On behalf of the KC Chamber, thank you to the Chiefs organization for their continued partnership and for fueling a sense of pride that stretches far beyond the football field. Here’s to another unforgettable season—Go Chiefs!
EXPORTER & LENDER ROUNDTABLE
Expanding into global markets can feel daunting, but the right financial tools and guidance can make all the difference. On Thursday, September 4, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., the KC Chamber will host an Exporter & Lender Roundtable in the Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) will share practical strategies to help exporters access capital, manage risk, and secure payments abroad. Lenders will also gain insights on programs that can strengthen client relationships and open new markets for growth. Attendees will learn about SBA export loan programs for both short- and long-term needs, EXIM tools that reduce risk and expand customer services, financing options to boost export capacity, and proven ways to ensure payment when doing business internationally. Don’t miss this free opportunity to position your business or your clients for global success. Register here to secure your spot.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT MATTIE RHODES
On Friday, September 5, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., the KC Chamber invites you to a vibrant Neighborhood Networking event in collaboration with the Mattie Rhodes Center—a cornerstone of community impact in our region.
Set within the welcoming atmosphere of the Mattie Rhodes Center, this gathering offers more than just coffee and conversation. Attendees will enjoy a chance to connect with community advocates while hearing firsthand about the Center’s transformative work. Since its founding in 1894, Mattie Rhodes has been a force for good, delivering bilingual behavioral health care, artistic programming, youth and economic development, public health outreach, and safety initiatives to underserved families across Greater Kansas City. Learn more about this event and register to join us as we connect for community, collaboration, and change.
KC WORLD CUP PREPARATIONS: SMALL BUSINESS LENDER WORKSHOP
The FIFA World Cup 26™ will bring global attention and thousands of visitors to the Kansas City region. To help local businesses meet the moment, the KC Chamber is hosting a Small Business Lender Workshop on Wednesday, September 24, from 2 to 3:30 PM in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd, KCMO).
Part of the KC Game Plan readiness initiative, the workshop is designed for financial institutions to coordinate strategies, anticipate increased loan demand, and ensure businesses have access to the capital they’ll need. Attendees will connect with peers, share best practices, and prepare to support entrepreneurs eager to seize World Cup opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to play a key role in powering Kansas City’s small business success during this historic event. Register now!
STRENGTHENING RESILIENCE WORKSHOP
Microaggressions can erode trust, productivity, and workplace culture — often without being immediately recognized. Join the KC Chamber for an interactive workshop on Tuesday, October 7, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO), that provides practical strategies to spot, address, and prevent these subtle behaviors while fostering stronger, more inclusive teams. Together, we’ll explore real-world examples and tools that empower individuals and organizations to build resilience and create environments where everyone feels respected and valued. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Learn more and register today!