Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce

Our LGBTBE Roundtable brought together marketing experts and business leaders for a conversation that delivered real value. Attendees gained insights on marketing strategy, no matter the industry or size of their business, from building a strong brand foundation to making smart budget decisions and measuring ROI. Thank you to our panelists, Jess Dyroff and Katie Koch of Brightside Creative - KC, and Kim Kramer and Michael Mackie of Square Peg Marketing & Branding, for sharing their expertise. We’re grateful to Spencer Fane LLP for hosting us in their beautiful downtown space, and to Dutzel's Catering & Events for the delicious lunch.

Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month at Power in Unity: AANHPI Leadership and Community Impact in Action. This dynamic panel, in collaboration with SoCalGas and SDG&E, features AANHPI and LGBTQ+ leaders sharing their career journeys, leadership insights, and the role of advocacy in shaping inclusive workplaces. Aligned with the 2026 theme, Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together, the conversation explores how identity and connection influence leadership in large corporate environments. Attendees will leave with both personal insights and practical takeaways for building stronger, more connected communities. Register here: https://lnkd.in/guQzNcgR

I'm pulling up a chair at a roundtable next week and I'd love to see you there. On April 29th Katie Koch and I are panelists for the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce Roundtable: Stand Out with Smarter Marketing. We're going to talk about branding as the foundation and why starting all your marketing with a strong, intentional brand is key. And how to spend wisely, evaluate what's actually working, and focus on the efforts that move things forward. It's free. It's in downtown KC. And there's lunch! Wednesday April 29th Spencer Fane, 1000 Walnut Suite 1400 11:30-12pm - Registration and lunch 12pm - 1pm - Program 1pm -1:15pm - Networking Free for Chamber members and non-members interested in LGBTBE certification. Link in comments to register! Hope to see you there!

Join NGLCC & Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce at the upcoming April Sip & Pitch program on Thursday, April 30 at 3:30 PM ET! Sip & Pitch is a virtual event where LGBTQ+ and interested and allied suppliers pitch their businesses to a panel of experts and corporate partners for feedback in a fun, informal setting. It’s a great way to discover new businesses, offer insights, and build meaningful connections. This month is a special Pride Guide of Sip & Pitch, which will highlight businesses selected for the upcoming NGLCC Pride Guide, showcasing innovative products and services across industries. Whether you're looking to connect with diverse suppliers, grow your network, or just learn more about incredible LGBTQ+ and allied-owned businesses, mark your calendars for this event! Register here: https://lnkd.in/gX-9maeW

Our April B2B at the Kansas City Art Institute brought members together for a beautiful spring evening of connection and conversation on the outdoor patio. We heard updates from the Institute, including their upcoming ARTPOP initiative, and from the Chamber team, all while enjoying great food and drinks. From familiar faces to new connections, it was a strong reminder of the power of community. Find more photos on our blog! Photos by Erishyll Isidro

Online voting for the Business Pride Awards is now closed. Thank you to everyone who showed up and supported this year’s finalists! As we count down to the big night, enjoy these moments from last year’s celebration and get a glimpse of what’s to come! Join us on May 12 at The Guild from 5:30-9PM for an evening of connection, recognition, and garden party charm. Enjoy festive drinks and curated food stations by Dutzel’s Catering as we honor the leaders shaping our business community. Secure your spot today before it sells out: https://lnkd.in/ggGhDbYR

Join us on April 29th for our upcoming LGBTBE Roundtable, featuring a dynamic panel of local professionals sharing insights on growth, visibility, and opportunity. Panelists will also discuss the unique considerations faced by minority-owned businesses when positioning their brand in broader markets. Through practical insights and real-world examples, attendees will gain guidance on strengthening their brand presence, navigating identity in marketing, and preparing their marketing strategy for the years ahead. Lunch included - open to everyone! Register here: https://lnkd.in/grWWUb7G

Our first Emerge: A Program for Young Professionals of 2026 set the tone for an inspiring year ahead. From meaningful connections to a candid conversation with Kansas City leaders, attendees walked away with real insights on leading with intention, setting boundaries, and showing up for their community with purpose. Thanks to Greg Valdovino (Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce), Tammy Martin, MLD, CPSM, CPSD (Burns & McDonnell), and Tyler Harrelson (Centric) for offering their insights and expertise. Learn more on our blog: https://lnkd.in/gvgn8Gsk

Celebrate. Connect. Be inspired. The Business Pride Awards brings together more than 250 business leaders, advocates, and community partners for a powerful evening recognizing those shaping a more inclusive business community. Enjoy a garden party–inspired atmosphere with curated food stations by Dutzel's Catering & Events, elevated beverages, an exciting raffle representing local businesses, and a memorable awards ceremony. Register today!

Congratulations to our 2026 Business Pride Awards finalists! Public voting is officially open. Cast your vote by April 17 to support the leaders, businesses, and advocates making an impact across our region. Vote here: https://lnkd.in/ge9w7fuR Join us on May 12 for our premier annual celebration!