FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
Each year, the KC Chamber’s ATHENA Awards give us the opportunity to recognize leaders who are not only achieving at the highest levels professionally but who are also committed to lifting others along the way. Nominations are now open for both the ATHENA Leadership Award and the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award, two of our region’s most prestigious honors for women’s leadership.
This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ATHENA Awards in Kansas City. For a quarter century, these awards have highlighted individuals whose leadership strengthens our community, expands opportunity, and creates lasting impact. Inspired by the Greek goddess known for wisdom, strength, and courage, ATHENA honorees reflect those same qualities in how they lead, serve, and invest in others.
What stands out most about ATHENA recipients is their commitment to something larger than themselves. They are mentors, advocates, and champions for others. They understand that leadership is not just about personal success, but about opening doors and creating pathways for those who follow. That spirit of shared success is part of what makes Kansas City such a strong and connected region.
As part of a global program, the ATHENA Awards also connect our community to a broader movement advancing leadership and opportunity for women around the world.
I encourage you to think about the leaders in your organization and your network who are making a difference and helping others succeed. Take a moment to submit a nomination by the May 22 deadline and help us celebrate the impact of women’s leadership across our region.
TRADE, TECHNOLOGY, AND POWER
As global trade and technology become increasingly influenced by geopolitical competition, businesses and policymakers alike are navigating a rapidly changing landscape. On Tuesday, May 19, from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m., the KC Chamber and World Trade Center – Kansas City invite you to join Trade, Technology, and Power: Geopolitics in a Fragmenting Global Economy in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
Featuring Emily Benson, an expert with experience advising transatlantic clients and serving in the U.S. Department of Commerce, this program will examine how shifting geopolitical dynamics are impacting trade policy, supply chains, economic security, and critical technologies, including AI and semiconductors. Attendees will gain insights into the future of global commerce and what these changes could mean for businesses operating in an increasingly interconnected economy. Reserve your spot today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT CITIZEN APARTMENTS
Start your Friday morning building new connections at the KC Chamber’s next Neighborhood Networking event, hosted by Citizen Apartments on Friday, May 22, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Located near 39th Street and State Line Road and adjacent to the University of Kansas Medical Center, Citizen Apartments brings together eclectic style and authentic Kansas City living in the heart of Midtown.
Attendees will enjoy a relaxed morning of networking, conversation, and tours while connecting with Chamber members and professionals from across the region. Following opening networking and brief remarks, guests will have the opportunity to explore the property’s studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartment spaces and learn more about the community’s approach to modern urban living.
Neighborhood Networking remains one of the KC Chamber’s most popular ways to make meaningful business connections while experiencing the organizations and spaces helping shape the Kansas City region. Whether you are looking to grow your network, reconnect with fellow members, or simply start the day with fresh conversations and new perspectives, this event offers a welcoming atmosphere to do just that. Register today!
Thank you to our 2026 Networking Sponsors Accenture, Allo Business, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Community America Credit Union, Delta Dental, EAG Advertising & Marketing, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, UMB Bank.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION AWARDS LUNCHEON
The countdown is on for the grand finale of the KC Chamber’s 2026 Small Business Celebration. Join us on Wednesday, May 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Loews Kansas City Hotel (1515 Wyandotte St., KCMO) for an unforgettable afternoon recognizing the Top 10 Small Businesses and building anticipation for the announcement everyone is waiting for, the 2026 “Mr. K” Small Business of the Year.
Presented by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, this high-energy event brings together the region’s business community to celebrate the companies that are driving innovation, resilience, and growth across Kansas City. The Top 10 represent an extraordinary group of founders and leaders, each with a story that reflects the strength and spirit of our entrepreneurial ecosystem.
But the excitement does not stop there. In addition to the top honor, we will recognize standout organizations through several specialty awards, including the Emerging Business Award and the Small Business Spirit of Inclusion Award. Each announcement adds to the momentum of the program, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and impact of small businesses throughout our region.
This signature event is a powerful reminder of the role small businesses play in shaping a vibrant and competitive Kansas City, and it is one you will not want to miss. Seats are filling quickly. Secure your place and join us for the celebration. Register today!
EDUCATION DATA FOR ACTION SUMMIT
What is happening in Kansas City classrooms today will shape the strength of our workforce tomorrow. The KC Chamber, in partnership with SchoolSmartKC, invites you to the Education Data for Action Summit on Thursday, May 28, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
This interactive session brings together business leaders, educators, policymakers, and community partners for a deeper look at student achievement across public education in our region. Together, participants will explore the latest data, share insights, and identify opportunities for meaningful action that support both student success and long-term economic vitality.
The conversation continues to build momentum as our region works to align education outcomes with workforce needs. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of where progress is being made, where challenges remain, and how the business community can help strengthen the talent pipeline that drives Kansas City forward. This free event offers a valuable opportunity to stay informed, engaged, and part of the solution. Register now to join the discussion.