FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
There are few things I enjoy more than seeing Kansas City buzzing with energy, and March always delivers. As we prepare to host major college basketball tournaments, you can feel that excitement across our region. Arenas are ready, jerseys are everywhere, and, just as important, our hotels, restaurants, and small businesses are welcoming visitors from across the country.
These events matter. They generate real economic impact for businesses of every size, from family-owned restaurants to major employers. They create jobs, support entrepreneurs, and shine a national spotlight on Greater Kansas City as a place that knows how to host and host well.
I’m especially grateful for our partners at the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation, Visit KC, downtown leaders, and so many others who work tirelessly behind the scenes to secure and execute events like these. Their collaboration reflects what makes this region special: we compete hard, but we collaborate even harder.
What excites me most is what visitors experience when they’re here. They see a community that is welcoming, inclusive, and proud of who we are. They discover our culture, our creativity, and our momentum. Many of them leave already planning their next trip back.
Sports continue to be a powerful economic engine for our region, and moments like this build confidence as we prepare for even bigger opportunities ahead. Thank you for everything you do to make Kansas City the kind of place people are excited to visit and even more excited to call home.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION CANDIDATES’ SHOWCASE
Get ready to celebrate the creativity and grit of our region’s entrepreneurs at the Small Business Celebration Candidates’ Showcase on Wednesday, March 4, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Grand Plaza at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO). This kickoff event for the KC Chamber’s Small Business Celebration spotlights applicants for the 2026 Small Business of the Year Award, featuring display tables where you can meet the visionaries behind some of Greater Kansas City’s most dynamic small businesses and learn about their products, services, and culture. Attendees will also have the opportunity to cast a Fan Favorite vote to show extra support for the business that inspires them most. The Fan Favorite will be announced live on Facebook at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 6.
A ticket costs $10/person and includes two drink tickets and food options. Don’t miss this chance to network, cheer on local innovators and help elevate a future Small Business Superstar. Register today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING — ARGYLE EVENTS BY SPORTING KC
Grow your local network and start your Friday strong at Neighborhood Networking hosted by Argyle Events by Sporting KC on March 13, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at Three Points (1511 Baltimore Ave., KCMO). This event brings together business leaders, KC Chamber members, and community partners for great conversation, new connections, and engaging neighborhood energy. The space, with floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views of downtown, offers a perfect backdrop for building relationships before your day gets underway.
The morning includes open networking time, brief remarks, and a raffle, plus the chance to tour the venue and connect more deeply with other professionals committed to strengthening our region’s business community. Whether you’re looking to meet new collaborators, deepen existing relationships, or simply get plugged into the Chamber’s vibrant network, this event is a great way to expand your circle in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Register now!
Thank you to our 2026 Networking Sponsors: Accenture, Allo Business, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Delta Dental, EAG Advertising & Marketing, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and UMB Bank.
CENTURIONS INFORMATION SESSIONS
Ready to take your leadership journey to the next level? The Centurions Leadership Program, a signature initiative of the KC Chamber that prepares emerging leaders for meaningful roles in Greater Kansas City, is hosting multiple March information sessions to help you learn more about the experience and how to get involved.
- Friday, March 13 — 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. – BOK Financial (7101 College Blvd., Ste. 1100, OPKS)
Learn about the program’s structure, requirements, and community impact, and ask questions with current members and alumni. Register now! - Tuesday, March 24 — 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. – KCK Chamber of Commerce (727 Minnesota Ave.)
Join another opportunity to dive into what it means to be a Centurion and how the program can help expand your network and influence. Register now!
These sessions are perfect for professionals curious about civic engagement, regional issues, and leadership growth. Don’t miss your chance to connect, ask questions, and discover if Centurions is the right next step in your leadership journey.
2025 KC CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT
The KC Chamber is proud to present our 2025 Annual Report, highlighting a year of achievement alongside members, volunteer leaders, and strategic partners. Together, we celebrated the power of business, strengthened our regional workforce, and advanced inclusive prosperity across Greater Kansas City — from advocacy wins and economic growth initiatives to community partnerships that moved the needle on shared priorities.
As we build on that momentum into 2026, the Chamber will continue expanding global connections, supporting business growth, elevating community voices on key issues like public safety, and collaborating with civic and elected leaders to make our region a place that inspires current and future generations. Explore the full 2025 Annual Report and see how your Chamber is driving impact.