FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
This Thursday, we’re proud to mark a celebratory milestone — the 10th Annual Healthy KC Vendor Expo — and I invite you to join us at Union Station for a morning of recognition, connection, and inspiration.
The day begins at 8 a.m. with a ceremony honoring the businesses that have earned 2024 Workplace Wellness Certification. These companies are setting the standard when it comes to supporting employee well-being by creating environments that prioritize physical and mental health, community engagement, and inclusive workplace culture. Congratulations to all this year’s certified companies. You can view the full list now.
Following the recognition, the vendor expo opens from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Grand Plaza. It’s an opportunity to connect with wellness professionals, explore innovative tools and services, and learn from organizations that are embedding health and well-being into their culture and operations. Whether you’re just starting your wellness efforts or looking to take them to the next level, there’s something here for everyone.
We’re especially grateful to Presenting Sponsor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City for their longtime support and leadership in this work. And I’ll hope to see you all on Thursday as we celebrate the progress of the past decade and look ahead to an even healthier Kansas City region. If you haven’t already, you can click here to register as an attendee.
IP ENFORCEMENT & TRADE REMEDIES
Join Husch Blackwell and the World Trade Center – Kansas City on Wednesday, May 21, from 10 to 11 a.m., for the first session of our Trade Policy Updates Webinar Series: IP Enforcement & Trade Remedies. Beau Jackson will provide expert insight into the latest developments in intellectual property enforcement and U.S. trade remedy measures. This session is essential for businesses engaged in international trade, legal professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the evolving landscape of trade policies. This event will take place online with more information on the webinar link to come. Register today!
VIRTUAL SMALL BUSINESS CELEBRATION TOP 10 CEO PANEL
You’re invited to join us for the Virtual Small Business Celebration Top 10 CEO Panel on Friday, May 30, from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. This exclusive online event features the CEOs of the KC Chamber’s 2025 Top 10 Small Businesses — finalists for the prestigious Mr. K Small Business of the Year Award.
Attendees will gain firsthand insights as these accomplished leaders discuss their entrepreneurial journeys, share lessons learned, and offer perspectives on building resilient, community-focused companies in today’s dynamic business environment. The panel promises to be a valuable experience for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and anyone interested in the stories behind Kansas City’s most inspiring small businesses.
The Zoom event is free and open to the public. Please note that in-person attendance is limited to sponsors and Top 10 honorees. The Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 24 hours before the event. Register now to reserve your virtual seat. And be sure to mark your calendar for the Small Business Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, June 17.
POWER OF DIVERSITY
Who’s transforming workplaces and communities into spaces where everyone is valued, heard, and empowered? Help us recognize those organizations leading the way. Applications remain open for the 2025 Champion of Diversity Award, honoring businesses and nonprofits that are intentionally building inclusive cultures through hiring practices, employee engagement, and community partnerships. If your organization is making bold strides toward welcoming and belonging, we encourage you to apply by May 16.
Then, join us for the region’s leading celebration of inclusive leadership at the POWER of Diversity Awards Luncheon on Friday, July 25. It’s a chance to gather, be inspired, and honor those creating a stronger, more welcoming Kansas City for all.
GROW KC BUSINESS DIGITAL MAGAZINE
The April 2025 issue of GROW KC Business is here, and it’s packed with the energy, innovation, and leadership that continue to move the Kansas City region forward. In this edition, you’ll hear directly from Beto Lopez, President & CEO of Guadalupe Centers, about building stronger communities. You’ll get a front-row seat at the KC Current Kickoff Luncheon, celebrating the city’s growing influence in women’s professional sports. Plus, explore how Kansas City’s aviation industry is soaring with recent airport developments and regional collaboration. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of business trends, celebrate member milestones, or feel inspired by civic progress, this issue delivers. Read it now!
