FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
Healthcare is one of the strongest engines driving our regional economy, and the choices being made right now on workforce, access to care, innovation, and the responsible use of technology will shape Kansas City’s competitiveness for years to come. That is why I hope you will join us for The State of Series: Healthcare on Thursday, February 19.
As a regional chamber, we know our economy does not stop at a state line, and neither do the opportunities facing the healthcare industry. This program will bring together leaders from across the Kansas City area for a candid conversation about what is changing, what is working, and what is needed next. Whether your organization operates within healthcare or simply depends on a healthy, productive workforce, you will leave with clearer insight into the trends shaping our region and the practical ways the business community can help move solutions forward.
The State of Series is designed to help employers understand the industries that power our community, and to connect you to the people and perspectives driving progress. I encourage you to register, bring a colleague, and be part of a discussion that affects every family, every workplace, and every neighborhood in our bi-state region.
Thank you to our 2026 State of Series presenting sponsors Arvest Bank, McCownGordon Construction, and UMB Bank, as well as our event supporter sponsors, for helping make these conversations possible.
We look forward to seeing you there.
EMERGING TRENDS IN REAL ESTATE 2026
ULI Kansas City and the KC Chamber invite you to a deep dive into the real estate trends, economic forces, and market forecasts shaping the year ahead. In 2026, ULI Kansas City marks its 40th anniversary, and this program will help set the context for what’s next across the Kansas City region. Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2026 takes place Wednesday, January 21, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 West Pershing Road, KCMO).
Keynote speaker Haley Anderson, Director of Financial Markets and Real Estate at PwC, will share highlights from the Emerging Trends in Real Estate® United States and Canada 2026 report. Now in its 47th edition, the annual outlook is widely regarded across the real estate and land use industry and features perspectives from leaders across the sector, including investors, developers, lenders, brokers, advisors, and consultants. Expect insight on topics including data centers, senior housing, and storage facilities, and what these trends could mean for the Kansas City region. Learn more and register today.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION AWARDS
If you’ve been meaning to tell your small business story, this is your nudge. The KC Chamber’s Small Business Celebration is one of the largest chamber-led recognition programs in the country, and we want the Kansas City region well represented in this year’s applicant pool.
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.
Need a quick boost before you hit submit? Join our virtual Small Business Celebration Application Workshop on Wednesday, January 28 from 9:00–10:00 a.m. Bring your questions and hear best practices from a panel of past winners, past Top 10 companies, and past judges.
Applications are due February 18. Start early, be specific, and let your impact shine. Learn more and apply!
RECONNECTING THE WEST SIDE
Kansas City is moving forward on Reconnecting the Westside, a Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study focused on improving transportation safety and addressing the long-term challenges created by the construction of I-35 and I-670. This work, led by Kansas City in partnership with MoDOT, reflects a year of community input and represents a unique opportunity to build a more connected future for the Westside neighborhood.
Join us for Reconnecting the West Side on Thursday, January 29, from 8:30–10:00 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). During the program, attendees will review initial and refined alternatives shaped by community feedback and learn how the project is working to improve safety and mobility while reconnecting a neighborhood historically divided by highway infrastructure. This is a timely conversation for anyone interested in the future of transportation, development, and inclusive growth in the Kansas City region. Register today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING – MARGARITAVILLE HOTEL
Start your morning with the KC Chamber at Neighborhood Networking – Margaritaville Hotel on Friday, January 30, from 8:30–10:00 a.m. at Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City (1491 N 98th Terrace, KCKS).
This stop on our Neighborhood Networking series is a great way to meet fellow members, grow your contacts, and get a feel for a venue designed to bring people together. Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City offers a “tropical escape” experience with on-site dining, activities, and more than 14,000 square feet of gathering space for meetings and events. Learn more and register now!