FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
As we begin the final week of hosting FIFA World Cup 26™ in Kansas City, culminating with the Quarterfinal on July 11, I’m filled with gratitude and confidence in what this region can accomplish when we work together.
For years, communities across Greater Kansas City prepared to welcome the world. Those intentional efforts created an extraordinary experience. Yet some of the moments we’ll remember most were the unexpected ones: a volunteer helping a visitor, neighbors celebrating together, a local business making a lasting impression, or a simple conversation that crossed cultures and continents. Those moments revealed who we are.
KC2026 President and CEO Pam Kramer recently described this experience as “magical, not magic.” She’s exactly right. This didn’t happen by chance. It happened because thousands of people believed in a shared vision and worked tirelessly to bring it to life.
As proud as we should be, our work isn’t finished. The strongest regions never stop learning. We’ll celebrate what went well, ask what we can do even better, and continue striving to make Greater Kansas City an even more welcoming and inclusive place for everyone who lives, works, visits, and invests here.
Most importantly, we’ll move forward believing there will be a next time. This World Cup didn’t define Kansas City; it revealed what’s possible when we think boldly, collaborate across state lines and community boundaries, and believe in our collective future.
Thank you to the thousands of people across Greater Kansas City who invested their time, talent, and passion to make this moment possible. From civic and business leaders to public servants, first responders, volunteers, hospitality workers, and countless community partners, you demonstrated what regional collaboration can accomplish when we work toward a common goal.
When the final whistle blows, Kansas City’s story won’t be ending. It will simply be turning the page to an even brighter chapter.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT CYNERGY WELLNESS
We’re excited to welcome Cynergy Wellness (2600 Grand Blvd., Ste. 500, KCMO) as the host of our next Neighborhood Networking on Friday, July 10.
This popular KC Chamber event offers a relaxed setting to connect with fellow members of the business community, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network. Guests will also learn more about Cynergy Wellness, a nationwide provider of physician services for workplace screening and consumer health, serving schools, employers, government agencies, and consumers nationwide.
Whether you’re looking to make new business connections or reconnect with familiar faces, Neighborhood Networking is a great way to start the day. Register now!
GROW TO genKC 2026
If your organization hosts summer interns, make sure they know about Grow to genKC on Wednesday, July 15, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at H&R Block headquarters (One H&R Block Way, KCMO). Hosted by genKC, this annual event connects interns with local leaders and peers while highlighting the professional opportunities, vibrant culture, and quality of life that make Kansas City a place where young talent can thrive.
Attendees will hear from Kansas City-area leaders during an engaging panel discussion before networking with fellow interns from across the region during a happy hour reception. Registration is just $5 and includes access to the panel discussion, heavy appetizers, drink tickets, and entry into a prize drawing. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
BEHIND THE SCENES OF BUSINESS SUCCESS AT POWER 100 SUMMIT DAY 2
Business owners, entrepreneurs, and aspiring leaders are invited to pull back the curtain on successful businesses during the Business Behind-the-Scenes: Process to Profit Tour on Friday, July 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Part of POWER 100 Summit Day 2, this immersive experience goes beyond presentations to showcase how businesses operate in real time. The day begins with a coffee kickoff at City Hall’s “Package and Pour It” before participants travel to 2000 Vine for the Success Secrets Lunch & Learn aboard a double-decker bus. Featured discussions will include insights from food and beverage entrepreneurs as well as a panel exploring the development of entertainment districts.
Presented by Blue Symphony and 100 Black Men of Greater Kansas City, in partnership with the KC Chamber and other leading business and community organizations, the tour offers an opportunity to learn directly from the owners, operators, and leaders driving innovation and growth across the region. Early registration is free, so register today!
DISCOVER YOUR LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL WITH CENTURIONS
If you’re ready to expand your leadership skills, grow your professional network, and deepen your understanding of our region, our Centurions Leadership Program invites you to an upcoming Information Session & Lunch & Learn on Wednesday, August 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Busey Bank (4622 Pennsylvania Ave., Ste 1500, KCMO).
Centurions is the KC Chamber’s nationally recognized, two-year leadership development program designed to prepare a representative cross-section of emerging leaders for their role in shaping the future of Greater Kansas City. Through civic engagement, community exploration, and meaningful connections, participants gain firsthand insight into the issues and opportunities that define our region while building lifelong relationships with fellow leaders.
Whether you’re considering applying for the next Centurions class or want to learn more about the program, this information session is the perfect opportunity to hear from current members, ask questions, and discover how Centurions can help you grow personally, professionally, and as a community leader. Register today!