FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
FIFA World Cup 26™ is underway in Kansas City, placing our region before a global audience unlike any we have welcomed before. While soccer is the catalyst, the impact extends far beyond the pitch.
Across the region, we are already seeing it. Hundreds of thousands of visitors, and millions more watching around the world, are experiencing Kansas City through our neighborhoods, businesses, culture, and people. Fans are filling our streets, restaurants, and public spaces while experiencing the warmth, hospitality, and welcoming spirit that define our region.
Those experiences matter. The impressions formed today can influence decisions for years to come: where to visit, where to invest, where to grow a business, and where to build a future.
That moment aligns directly with the KC Chamber’s strategic priorities. Every day, we work to strengthen our regional economy, attract and retain talent, support business growth, and position Greater Kansas City as a globally competitive region. The World Cup gives us a powerful platform to showcase those strengths to the world.
Just as importantly, it gives us the chance to demonstrate who we are. Visitors are experiencing our hospitality, innovative businesses, cultural vibrancy, and collaborative spirit firsthand. They are seeing a region built on welcoming people and ideas—a place where talent thrives, businesses grow, and communities prosper.
As important, too, is for Kansas Citians to continue to enjoy the city and support all our small businesses, both in and outside of downtown. Go out to eat, shop at that local boutique, and pass along a recommendation to a visitor about a uniquely KC business to visit. We, as Kansas Citians, are the best ambassadors and can help our guests experience the authenticity of our region.
The impact of this moment extends well beyond the tournament itself. Long after the final whistle, the relationships, investments, and connections formed during these weeks can help shape a stronger, more vibrant region for years to come.
So don’t sit this moment out. Get out and experience the energy across the region. Greet our guests, support local businesses, and help create an unforgettable experience. Together, we can turn this global spotlight into lasting benefits for Greater Kansas City.
THE SOCCER EFFECT: UNLOCKING TRADE & INVESTMENT BETWEEN THE US AND NETHERLANDS
As Kansas City welcomes the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, the opportunities extend far beyond the matches themselves. Join World Trade Center–Kansas City, the Greater Houston Partnership, and World Trade Center Arnhem Nijmegen on Tuesday, June 23, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. for a virtual discussion exploring how global sporting events can drive long-term economic growth, international trade, and cross-border investment.
Regional and international leaders will discuss the strengths of Kansas City, Houston, and the Netherlands in key industries, including aerospace, bioscience, logistics, and global commerce. Attendees will also hear firsthand from companies with Dutch investments and operations in the United States and gain insights into future opportunities for collaboration.
Don’t miss this timely conversation on how the World Cup can help create lasting business connections and economic impact long after the final whistle. Register today!
BEHIND THE SHIELD TOUR OFFERS EMERGING SCIENTISTS AN INSIDE LOOK AT LABCONCO
Labconco is opening its doors to the next generation of scientific leaders through the Behind the Shield Tour, a unique opportunity designed for emerging scientists, researchers, and STEM communicators interested in exploring the future of science and innovation. The event will take place on Thursday, July 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Labconco Corporation headquarters (8811 Prospect Ave., KCMO). Lunch will be provided.
Participants will receive an exclusive tour of Labconco’s headquarters and manufacturing facilities, offering a firsthand look at how the company designs and builds products used in laboratories around the world. Attendees will also connect with fellow scientists and participate in a candid discussion about the future of scientific research, communication, and workforce development.
The tour is intended as a listening and learning experience. Labconco leaders hope to better understand the perspectives, interests, and challenges facing today’s scientific community while exploring how organizations can support and engage the next generation of researchers. Space is limited, and interested participants must complete a brief application to be considered. Interested in attending? Apply now!
SMALL BUSINESS B(AI)SICS
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to explore how artificial intelligence can help strengthen their businesses through a free, hands-on training opportunity coming to Kansas City this summer. The KC Chamber is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Google to bring Small Business B(AI)sics to the region on Thursday, August 6, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the KC Chamber Board Room inside Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). This national initiative is designed to help small businesses understand and apply AI tools to real-world business challenges.
Participants will learn practical ways to use AI to improve marketing and customer engagement, streamline operations and workflows, enhance productivity, and support better business decision-making. No prior AI or technical experience is required, making the program accessible for entrepreneurs and small business owners across all industries. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet and come prepared with questions about their specific business needs. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited. Register today!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2026 ATHENA AWARDS RECEPTION
Mark your calendar for the 2026 ATHENA Awards Reception on Tuesday, September 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Grand Hall at Union Station Kansas City (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). The annual event honors individuals whose leadership, professional excellence, community service, and commitment to advancing women have made a lasting impact across the Kansas City region.
The ATHENA Awards recognize both established and emerging leaders through the ATHENA Leadership Award and the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award. Inspired by the Greek goddess Athena, the awards celebrate strength, wisdom, courage, and a dedication to helping others achieve professional success and leadership growth.
Honorees for the 2026 awards will be announced in the weeks ahead, but now is the time to reserve the date and plan to join us for one of the Chamber’s most inspiring celebrations of leadership and service. The reception begins with networking, followed by the awards program and additional time to connect with business and community leaders from across the region. Event registration will open soon, so learn more about the ATHENA Awards today!