FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
As our region prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, I’ve been thinking a lot about something Kathy Nelson, President & CEO of the Greater Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation and Visit KC, has said throughout this journey: people are not coming here expecting us to be someone else. They are coming here to experience Kansas City — and the people who make us special.
Now is the time to lean into everything that makes this region unique. Visit neighborhood restaurants and coffee shops. Spend time in our entertainment districts. Attend festivals, watch parties, concerts, and community celebrations. Support the small businesses and local entrepreneurs creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike. Most importantly, don’t sit this moment out. This is for all of us, so get out and let your “Midwest nice” shine. Learn more about events and activities happening across the region on the KC2026 website.
The experience visitors remember will not come from a stadium or marketing campaign alone. It will come from conversations at a local brewery, a warm greeting at a neighborhood shop, and the pride people feel walking through districts that are vibrant, welcoming, and uniquely ours.
Kansas City earned its Certified Welcoming designation because this community understands that strong regions are built when everyone feels like they belong. Immigrants, refugees, international visitors, and diverse communities contribute enormously to the culture, entrepreneurship, innovation, and energy that define Kansas City.
So, while you’re out enjoying this incredible moment, take time to recognize the businesses and people helping create it. Snap a photo. Share a story. Thank them online and tag us so we can help celebrate the places and faces welcoming the world to Kansas City.
THE SOCCER EFFECT: UNLOCKING TRADE & INVESTMENT BETWEEN THE US AND NETHERLANDS
As Kansas City prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, the opportunities extend far beyond the pitch. 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 examining how global sporting events can serve as catalysts for long-term economic growth, cross-border investment, and international business partnerships.
Attendees will hear from regional and international leaders about the strengths of Kansas City, Houston, and the Netherlands in key industries, including aerospace and aviation, bioscience and life sciences, logistics, and international trade. The program will also feature real-world perspectives from companies with existing Dutch investments and operations in the U.S., followed by an interactive Q&A exploring future opportunities for collaboration. Register today and discover how the World Cup’s impact can create lasting business connections long after the final whistle.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT encompas
Start your morning making meaningful connections at Neighborhood Networking hosted by encompas (1512 Grand Blvd., KCMO) on Friday, June 26, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. Recently recognized as both a 2026 KC Chamber Top 10 Small Business and the 2026 Legacy of Kansas City award recipient, encompas specializes in contract furniture and architectural products for corporate, government, education, hospitality, and healthcare environments while continuing to make a lasting impact on the Kansas City region through its commitment to community and service.
This popular KC Chamber networking event offers members and guests an opportunity to connect with business and community leaders in a relaxed, welcoming setting before the workday begins. Whether you’re looking to grow your professional network, strengthen existing relationships, or simply learn more about one of Kansas City’s outstanding organizations, Neighborhood Networking is a great place to start. Register today!
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 summer event gives interns an inside look at how Kansas City supports career growth at every stage. Through a panel discussion featuring Kansas City-area leaders, attendees will hear firsthand perspectives on building a successful career, navigating professional opportunities, and creating a future in the region. The conversation will also explore Kansas City’s thriving sports, arts, and entertainment scene and why so many young professionals choose to stay and grow their careers here. Following the program, interns can connect with peers from across the metro during a networking happy hour.
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.
SAVE THE DATE: POWER OF DIVERSITY
Be watching for more information on the KC Chamber’s POWER of Diversity luncheon as plans are being finalized for an October event celebrating the individuals, nonprofits, and businesses helping create a more welcoming, representative, and inclusive Kansas City region. The signature program honors outstanding leaders through the ACE Awards and recognizes an organization with the Champion of Diversity Award for its commitment to inclusive leadership, workplace culture, and community impact. Additional details and registration information will be announced soon. Learn more at www.kcchamber.com/power-of-diversity.