FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
What’s happening in classrooms across our region today will directly impact the strength of Kansas City’s workforce tomorrow. That’s why I hope you’ll join us for the Education Data for Action Summit on Thursday, May 28, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
Hosted by the KC Chamber in partnership with SchoolSmartKC, this conversation will bring together business leaders, educators, policymakers, and community partners to take a closer look at student achievement across public education in our region, and what those outcomes mean for our shared economic future.
As employers across industries continue talking about workforce needs, talent development, and long-term competitiveness, we must stay engaged in conversations about education and opportunity. This summit is designed to be interactive and solutions-focused, allowing all of us to better understand where progress is being made, where challenges remain, and how the business community can continue supporting students and schools in meaningful ways.
Kansas City has always moved forward best when we work together across sectors and across state lines. Preparing the next generation for success is no different. Strong schools, strong students, and strong workforce pathways all contribute to a stronger regional economy and a stronger community for everyone.
This is a free event, and I encourage you to join us for what I know will be an important and thoughtful discussion. I hope to see you there. Register now to be part of the conversation.
SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION AWARDS LUNCHEON
There is still time to be part of one of Kansas City’s most inspiring business events of the year, but this is the final week to register for the KC Chamber’s 2026 Small Business Celebration Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, May 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Loews Kansas City Hotel (1515 Wyandotte St., KCMO).
Presented by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, this signature event brings our business community together to celebrate the entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business leaders shaping the future of our region. We’ll honor this year’s Top 10 Small Businesses: Blue Symphony; Café Corazon; EAG Advertising & Marketing; encompas; Kansas City Catering; MADE MOBB; Pantheon Moving; RK Contractors; She Hauled It; and SLATTERY Design + Architecture.
Throughout the luncheon, we’ll recognize several specialty award winners before building to the moment everyone is waiting for — the announcement of the 2026 “Mr. K” Small Business of the Year. Each of these businesses represents the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to move Kansas City forward.
This celebration is always a reminder of what makes our region special: leaders who invest in their people, serve their communities, and continue finding new ways to grow and innovate. If you have not yet secured your seat, now is the time. We would love to celebrate with you. Register today before seats are gone.
CENTURIONS APPLICATION WORKSHOP & OFFICE HOURS
If you’ve been considering applying for the KC Chamber’s Centurions Leadership Program, this is a great opportunity to take the next step. Join the Centurions Recruiting Committee on Thursday, May 28, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO) for the Centurions Application Workshop & Office Hours.
This interactive session is designed for professionals interested in joining one of Kansas City’s premier leadership development programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with current Centurions, ask questions about the application process, receive feedback on application materials, and gain insight into the program’s commitment to learning, serving, and leading throughout the region.
For nearly 50 years, Centurions has helped prepare emerging leaders to shape the future of Greater Kansas City through civic engagement, community awareness, and meaningful regional connections. Whether you are ready to apply or simply exploring the program, this workshop is designed to help you better understand the experience and put your best application forward. Register today to reserve your spot.
META COMMUNITY ACCELERATOR AI TRAINING
Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes, and this upcoming event is designed to help Kansas City’s small business community better understand how to put AI to work. The KC Chamber and Meta invite you to the Meta Community Accelerator AI Training on Tuesday, June 2, from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
The afternoon begins with an opportunity to test Meta’s newest AI glasses from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., followed by an interactive AI training workshop from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. Attendees will learn practical ways to harness AI tools to drive business growth, reach ideal audiences, improve efficiency, and support day-to-day operations.
This free event also offers time to network with fellow business leaders while enjoying light bites. As technology continues evolving at a rapid pace, programs like this help ensure Kansas City businesses remain informed, adaptable, and competitive in a changing marketplace. Register today to reserve your spot.
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING AT CENTRIC
Join fellow KC Chamber members and regional professionals on Friday, June 5, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at Centric (520 West Pennway, Ste. 100, KCMO) for a morning of networking, conversation, and community connection. Founded in 2010, Centric is a Kansas City-based general contractor known for approaching construction in bold and innovative ways while taking on projects that create meaningful impact throughout the region.
Neighborhood Networking offers a relaxed and welcoming environment to expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and learn more about organizations helping shape Kansas City’s future. The morning will include open networking, brief remarks, a raffle, and tours of Centric’s space, giving attendees an opportunity to connect more deeply with both the host organization and fellow business leaders.
Whether you are looking to grow your network, strengthen existing relationships, or simply start your day with positive regional energy, this event is a wonderful way to stay engaged with Kansas City’s vibrant business community. 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.