Network Kansas

Ready. Set. Be Well: Small Business Benefits & Wellness Expo - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-30 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 East 29th Street North, Wichita, KS, 67220
Ready to invest in your business and your wellbeing? Join us for the second annual Ready. Set. Be Well: Small Business Benefits and Wellness Expo, an event designed to empower small business owners, solopreneurs, and aspiring individuals looking to start a business with tools to grow stronger in both business and wellbeing!
This year, we’re expanding our event with brand-new educational sessions and a live expert panel to give you even more tools and insights to grow stronger in both business and life.
Attendees will also be able to connect directly with local providers offering valuable resources, including:
-Healthcare: Direct primary care, concierge medicine, mental health services, insurance brokers
-Financial Wellness: Financial planning, retirement account coordination, HR consulting
-Wellness: Physical therapy, fitness programs, preventive care
-And much more!
Whether you’re well established or just exploring your options, this event is packed with practical support and meaningful connections!
Event Details
Date: Thursday, October 30th 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
**Note: This is a come-and-go event.
Cost to attend: None
Location: WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 E 29th St. North. Wichita, KS 67220
Registration will close at Noon on October 29th, 2025.
***Food trucks will be on-site from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to purchase lunch.
Please contact trainwithsbdc@wichita.edu with any questions.

Social Media the Smart Way: Paid Search with Google
2025-10-30 10:00 - 11:30 | Online Event
In this 75-minute webinar, designed specifically for small business owners and entrepreneurs, you’ll discover how to effectively use Google Ads to enhance your online presence and attract potential customers. We’ll cover the essentials of setting up and managing paid search campaigns, providing you with the tools and knowledge to create ads that resonate with your target audience and convert clicks into sales.
Key Topics Covered:

Introduction to Google: Understand the fundamentals of Google, including how it works and why it’s crucial for small businesses.

Budgeting and Bidding Strategies: Get tips on how to set a budget that aligns with your business goals and understand the different bidding strategies available.

Monitoring and Optimizing Campaigns: Discover how to track your campaign’s performance using key metrics, and learn techniques to optimize your ads for better results.

By the end of this webinar, you’ll be equipped with practical knowledge and actionable insights to launch and manage successful Google campaigns that can drive measurable growth for your small business. Whether you’re new to paid search or looking to refine your existing strategy, this session will provide valuable guidance to help you maximize your advertising investment.
Faculty: Kim Beer, Midnight Productions. Kim is a national speaker and advocate for entrepreneurship and small business marketing. She has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years, soon to celebrate her 20th year as president of the small business marketing firm Midnight Productions, Inc. Kim’s mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented marketing tactics that will carry their business to the next level. Her seminars on marketing are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction.
Please connect at least 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The webinar starts promptly at 10:00 AM and concludes by 11:15 AM.

Feeding Ourselves: Networks, Data and Policy for Just and Sustainable Food Systems
2025-10-30 11:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
Who Should Attend?
This session is ideal for anyone interested in social change, equitable wellbeing, and new ways of building stronger communities, grounded in trust, alignment, and distributed action in the service of sustainability, equity, and justice. If you can’t attend live, this session will be recorded.

Why This Matters Now
COVID-19 revealed what many communities had long known: our global food supply chain is fragile, consolidated, and dominated by a precarious concentration of power. At the same time, food insecurity is rising, and more people are asking: how can we create “food solutions” that ensure no one goes hungry?
For over a decade, IISC has supported the launch and growth of local and regional food system networks that build resilience and equity. From the Vermont Farm to Plate Network, credited with strengthening the state’s agricultural economy, to the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, pioneering equitable and inclusive processes to advance food justice, we’ve seen how networks can shift policy, practice, and imagination around what’s possible.
Join us for an interactive webinar with two special guests and partners:

Ellen Kahler, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
Nessa Richman, Rhode Island Food Policy Council

Together, we will explore strategies to weave diverse cross-sector networks, track and share helpful user-friendly data, and design participatory processes to help people understand and advocate for policy.
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What You’ll Learn

The Power of Networks: What are they, how do they work, and how can we tap their potential?
The Art and Science of Data Capture and Sharing: How can we ensure that the right people have good information to support action and decision-making?
Processes for Creating People-Focused Policy: How can we make policy and policy-making more accessible to more people so they reflect community values and needs?

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Facilitator

Curtis Ogden is a Senior Associate with the Interaction Institute for Social Change (IISC), where he has worked for two decades supporting social change leaders, organizations, and networks as a coach, consultant, facilitator, trainer, and network weaver. He has helped to start the Food Solutions New England Network, Vermont Farm to Plate Network, Cancer Free Economy Network, Digital Navigators Network, Diverse Teacher Workforce Coalition, DC Social Justice Transformations Network, and supported numerous other local, state-wide, regional, national, and international collaborative efforts. In addition to his work at IISC, Curtis is an advisor to The Transformations Community, Rural Communities Rising, FLOW Public Trust for the Great Lakes, and the Connecticut River Watershed Partnership. He also writes regularly on the IISC Blog. He lives in the Connecticut River Watershed in Western Massachusetts with his wife, teenage daughters, and a flock of laying hens.
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Choosing your ticket type

If you are an individual who works in a grassroots organization or is otherwise affiliated with a racial justice group, and you are paying for the workshop yourself, please register as Grassroots*
If you are an individual with a social or public sector organization, please register as Nonprofit.
If you are an individual with a grantmaking or philanthropic organization, please register as a Foundation.
If you are an individual with a social venture organization, please register as a For-Profit/Social Venture.

*The number of these tickets is limited, so we invite those who are BIPOC, systematically marginalized or excluded, and have the highest level of financial need to register with this ticket type. If this is the only ticket type that works for you and it’s sold out, please sign up for the waitlist, and we’ll contact you if a spot becomes available.
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Have a question? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions and don’t hesitate to reach out!

Social Media the Smart Way: Paid Search with Facebook & Instagram
2025-10-30 11:30 - 13:00 | Online Event
In this 90-minute webinar tailored for small business owners, we’ll dive into the world of paid social media advertising on Facebook and Instagram. These powerful platforms offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with your target audience, boost brand visibility, and drive sales. Whether you’re new to social media advertising or looking to enhance your current efforts, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to succeed.
Key Topics Covered:

Introduction to Paid Social Media Advertising: Understand the basics of paid social media, why it’s crucial for small businesses, and how Facebook and Instagram ads can help you achieve your business goals.

Setting Up Effective Campaigns: Learn how to create and structure ad campaigns that align with your business objectives. We’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right campaign type, setting up ad sets, and crafting compelling ad creatives.

Audience Targeting and Segmentation: Discover how to reach the right people by leveraging Facebook and Instagram’s robust targeting options. We’ll cover audience segmentation, custom audiences, and lookalike audiences to help you maximize your ad spend.

Budgeting and Bidding Techniques: Get insights into setting an appropriate budget and choosing the right bidding strategies to ensure you get the best return on investment (ROI) for your ad spend.

Analyzing and Optimizing Performance: Learn how to monitor your ad performance using Facebook’s Ads Manager and Instagram’s insights. We’ll discuss key metrics, how to interpret them, and actionable tips for optimizing your campaigns to achieve better results.

Best Practices and Tips for Success: Gain practical tips and tricks to avoid common mistakes and enhance the effectiveness of your campaigns. We’ll share examples of successful ads and discuss how you can apply these strategies to your business.

By the end of this webinar, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to create, manage, and optimize paid social media campaigns on Facebook and Instagram. You’ll leave with actionable strategies to attract more customers, increase engagement, and grow your small business through effective social media advertising.
Faculty: Kim Beer, Midnight Productions. Kim is a national speaker and advocate for entrepreneurship and small business marketing. She has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years, soon to celebrate her 20th year as president of the small business marketing firm Midnight Productions, Inc. Kim’s mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented marketing tactics that will carry their business to the next level. Her seminars on marketing are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction.
Please connect at least 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The webinar starts promptly at 11:30 AM and concludes by 1:00 PM.

Lunch and Learn: 5 Ways to Use ChatGPT (AI) for small business
2025-10-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
AI (Artificial Intelligence) can make you a more efficient marketer. Learn to use ChatGPT (AI) for marketing your small business, starting with your own information for:
1. Condensing/Expanding Messages: ChatGPT assists in summarizing complex ideas for social media/email, and elaborating on brief concepts for blogs/newsletters/presentations.
2. Understanding Consumer Problems: By analyzing vast online data, ChatGPT aids in consumer research, identifying sentiments/preferences, and simulating customer interactions.
3. Filling Branding Gaps: ChatGPT helps you strengthen your branding by ensuring consistency in tone/messaging, suggesting refinements, and generating ideas for unique selling propositions.
4. Technical Quick Reference: ChatGPT provides step-by-step instructions for technical tasks, eliminating barriers to technical competency.
5. Social Media Post Generation: ChatGPT can automate social media post creation, streamlining marketing efforts for solopreneurs and small businesses.
Faculty: KIm Beer. Kim is a multi-talented Growth Facilitator, national speaker and advocate for small business. She is cohost of the popular podcast “The Business Animal” and the author of “The Little Book of Big Sales Moves.” Her mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented tactics that will carry their business and their creativity to the next level. Kim’s seminars and workshops on entrepreneurial strategy, marketing, and personal development are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction garnered from over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience. She offers experiential opportunities for personal development and growth through her Synchronicity Sessions. Kim is also an award-winning writer, graphic designer and photographer. She holds a certification as an Equine Gestaltist from Touched by a Horse and is a certified Hypnotist through the International Association of Counselors and Therapists.

November WIBA Women Luncheon 2025
2025-11-04 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ninth Floor Club + Venue, 100 North Broadway, Suite 900, Wichita, KS, 67202, United States
Our WIBA Women’s Luncheon is a great time to network with other like-minded women and leaders.

Hear from WIBA member, Anita Greenwood, Founder, CEO & Executive Coach at Powerhouse Leaders.
Anita will tell her story, talk about her career journey and share what she learned on a month-long business trip that she took to Africa. She will also talk about how to leverage partnerships and relationships to generate business.
Anita Greenwood is a British-born CEO and Executive Coach who’s lived in three countries and led teams across many more. After a 20+ year global career growing billion-dollar brands, she founded Powerhouse Leaders, her Wichita-based company that helps game-changing leaders elevate their executive presence and influence in today’s complex world.
A master of turning discomfort into growth, Anita has built relationships that landed multimillion-dollar deals, unforgettable adventures, and—no joke—saved her own life.
Known for her straight talk, wit, and fearless approach to growth, fresh back from a solo trip to Africa practicing what she teaches, Anita aspires to inspire leaders to challenge norms, lead bolder, create impact, and have fun doing it—because serious impact doesn’t have to mean taking yourself seriously too.

Location
The Ninth Floor Club + Venue

Parking is available on the upper levels of the parking garage located west of Broadway.
Any space not marked RESERVED is available for your use.
Access the building through the covered walkway on the 3rd level of the garage.
There is a $1.00 parking fee (cash only) when exiting the parking garage.

Pricing
$25 Members
$50 Non members
*Tickets are non-refundable or transferrable

Contact Information
Wichita Independent Business Association
Name: Jennifer Willits
Phone: (316) 201-3264
Email: jennifer@wiba.org

eMail Marketing
2025-11-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
eMail marketing, driven by your CRM (customer relationship management) software is the most cost-effective tool in your marketing kit. In this class we will cover how to utilize email to turn prospects into customers and how to utilize your CRM to tailor the customer journey from inquiry to sale.
Faculty: Kim Beer. Kim is a national speaker and advocate for entrepreneurship and small business marketing. She has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years, soon to celebrate her 20th year as president of the small business marketing firm Midnight Productions, Inc. Kim’s mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented marketing tactics that will carry their business to the next level. Her seminars on marketing are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction. Kim is a Certified Authorized Local Expert and Platinum Solution Provider with the online marketing software company Constant Contact.

Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials
2025-11-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Online Event
Running a business requires more than just a great idea—it takes strategy, financial literacy, and operational know-how. This workshop will provide new and existing entrepreneurs with an understanding of what is needed to build a sustainable business. We’ll cover essential topics such as business planning, marketing, and financial management to ensure long-term success.
Key Takeaways:

Learn how to create a business model that works
Understand branding and marketing fundamentals
Discover key financial tools for profitability
Identify common challenges and how to navigate them
Understand how to develop a strategy for long-term business growth

This is the first Workshop in the three part series Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials. Session 2 – Polishing Your Business Idea, Marketing Strategy & Social Media Marketing and Session 3 – Demystifying Financial Foundations, Funding Your Businesss Dream & Creating Realistic Financial Projections.

Content that Connects: Planning for Performance & Success in 2026 Workshop
2025-11-17 13:00 - 14:30 | WSU Woosley Hall, 2060 N Mid-Campus Drive, Wichita, KS, 67208
Learn tactics that help you thoughtfully execute on your 2026 social media vision!

Join Wichita State University and NXTUS for a FREE workshop on “Content that Connects: Planning for Performance & Success in 2026″, led by Angela Breer with Dot Strategies.
In this interactive session, learn tactics that help you thoughtfully execute on your 2026 social media vision from generating ideas and planning content to analyzing performance with data metrics and refining your approach. This workshop will help you structure your social media to fit what you can realistically manage for your startup.
Free parking is available in the lot outside of Woolsey Hall.

About the Speaker: Angela Breer
Angela Breer is a strategic communications and marketing professional. As the Founder and Chief Dot Connector for Dot Strategies, she helps clients connect the dots with a strategic and creative focus in the areas of marketing and communications. She applies her empathy and organizational skills to the many community causes she is involved with. She graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in journalism with an emphasis in strategic communications. She enjoys reading, finding the perfect treasure, time in nature and binging a good show!

Grant Writing Basics
2025-11-17 13:30 - 16:30 | Online Event
The Grant Writing Basics course is suitable for people who have never written a grant (more than 50% of our students), and those who have a lot of experience and want to take a fresh look at their current practices.
More than 3,400 Kansans have been trained and found confidence and writing skills, resulting in more than $100 million of successful grants written in the first 18 months after they took this class. They wrote grants to support park improvements, walking trails, building restoration, leadership programs, arts, programming, festivals, and other community infrastructure.
Consisting of two (3-hour) online live sessions with many additional resources, this format allows writers to formulate their grant ideas into a grant proposal. Participants are encouraged to bring their grants or grant ideas to share. Time for interaction with other participants is an important aspect of the class; even experienced grant writers pick up tips and are reenergized after consulting with peers.
You will learn:

Sources of data for community needs
Where to find grants
Elements of a great grant proposal
Practicing the grant elements: Problem, Outcome, Activity, Evaluation, Budget

Additional information:

This online course has two synchronous classes. The class resource materials are available the week before and several weeks afterwards.
Enrollment is limited for each class, but we want to meet all needs; if the class is filled, please register on the waiting list.
Classes are recorded for later reference or classes missed.

For more information, please contact:
Nancy Daniels
nkdaniels@ksu.edu

Webinar-Food Security, Access, and Health Outcomes in Rural America: Challenges and Policy Pathways
2025-11-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
This webinar will focus on the everyday challenges rural communities face in accessing healthy and affordable food, and how these challenges affect health and well-being. We will discuss the impact of policy reforms, unique challenges such as food deserts, and strategies to strengthen rural food systems through partnerships, education, and innovation. Presenters: Bhagyashree Katare, Berdine Martin Food Economics Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University Krystal Hodge, Assistant Professor, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign NCRCRD webinars are open to all participants. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate or need an interpreter or translator, please contact Mary Breidenbach (mabreide@purdue.edu) no later than 5 days prior to the event. Purdue University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access University.

QuickBooks Online Training for Beginners - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-02 09:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Learn how to use QuickBooks Online software to help manage your company’s finances from anywhere using the cloud. This webinar covers setting up your company account, navigating the user interface, recording common transactions, and running reports to assess your company’s performance. Learn how to set up products and services, customers, vendors, sales tax, and more. Presenter Charnea Bell is a Master Accountant, Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, alumna of Wichita State University, and local business owner.
Cost: $199.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 1st 2025

Accessing Capital for Small Business
2025-12-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Join Brande Stitt, Program Director for the Women’s Business Center, as she walks us through where entrepreneurs get their money. Learn what types of businesses are launched, and how they were funded.
You will learn to ask yourself these important questions:
How much money do I need?
What type of business do I have?
What type of capital is most appropriate?
You will learn how to prepare to raise debt (borrow money) or equity capital (give up a share of your business.)
Brande Stitt currently serves as Program Director for the Women’s Business Center in Fairway, Kansas. The WBC helps develop, mentor and fund women led businesses. She previously served as the Network Builder for KCSourceLink and Director of Small Business & Entrepreneurship for the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. Brande received her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Drury University in Springfield, Mo., and a Masters of Education in community/agency counseling from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Please connect at least 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The webinar begins promptly at 10:00 AM CT/ 9AM MT/ 8AM PT and concludes by 12:00 PM CT/ 11AM MT/ 10AM PT.

Succession Planning 101 - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-18 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
The goal of succession planning is to have contingency plans to ensure that your business continues to grow despite inevitable market disruptions and personnel changes. Succession planning also encompasses your Exit Plan to sell your business for the highest value possible. This webinar will cover how and when to start a succession plan, preparing for the process, the key components of business valuation, and proven strategies to implement.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 15th 2025

Demystifying Financial Foundations: Income, Assets & Cash Flow
2026-01-08 11:30 - 13:00 | Online Event
In this **FREE** Webinar.
Learn how to understand, create and use your financial statements

· Understanding Financial Statements:
o Introduces the three main financial statements: the Income Statement (Profit and
Loss), Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Statement.
o Explains their purposes: showing profitability, financial position, and available cash
o Importance in decision-making, tracking performance, and securing investments.

· Income:
o Impact on profitability and business health.
o Connection to revenue streams and sales.

· Assets:
o Distinguish between current (liquid) and non-current (fixed) assets.
o Importance for collateral and borrowing power.

· Liabilities and Equity:
o Difference between liabilities (debts & obligations) and equity (owner’s interest).

· Cash Flow:
o Importance of cash flow management to successful business operations.
o Differences between operating, investing, and financing cash flows.

This webinar helps teach you the basics of Financial Statements needed to understand and manage your business well.

Faculty: A team of SCORE and community volunteers with wide ranging business and financial experience.

Unleash the Power of LinkedIn
2026-01-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00

Are you an entrepreneur or small business owner who knows you should be using LinkedIn to
market your business but aren’t sure where to start? Or maybe you set up a profile ages ago but
haven’t really done much with it since?
If you think that LinkedIn is just for jobseekers, you’re dead wrong! In this hands-on workshop,
LinkedIn expert and 5x author Gillian Whitney will break down exactly how to use LinkedIn to
attract clients and grow your business without the overwhelm or confusion!
Gillian Whitney has been active on LinkedIn since 2013, grown a thriving network of over 11,000
followers, and has spent the last 6 years teaching business owners just like you to harness the
power of LinkedIn. As an award-winning Toastmaster, sought-after speaker, podcast host, and
author of multiple books, Gillian is all about helping entrepreneurs get their message out there
and build their authority.

8 Steps to Increased Exposure on Google for Your Business
2026-01-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00

In our current culture, Google has transformed from a noun into a verb.
Think about it. We don’t say “search for it” — instead, we say “google it.”
This is a direct result of people finding incredibly useful information by using Google’s search engine. If you think this is an accident or coincidence, then think again. You see, Google has developed a mutually-beneficial system between their company and other businesses in the world.
Here’s why: if Google understands your business, then they can provide accurate information to their users about your business. If Google can provide accurate information to their users, then the users will continue relying on Google. If a lot of people continue using Google, then Google can make money from ads and paid services. It all comes down to creating a great experience for Google users.
We will guide you through best practices so that you can benefit from your Google Business Profile.
Presenter’s Bio: Donna Amos, Certified Social & Community Manager, is the Founder of Solopreneur Solutions a successful digital marketing agency with a team of six. As a speaker and trainer she has trained hundreds of Solopreneurs and micro business owners in sales and marketing strategies.
Registration Information:
> Upon registering you will receive a confirmation email with the SCORE Zoom link to attend.
> You do not need a Zoom account to participate.
> Please connect 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The workshop begins promptly at 12PM and concludes by 1PM Central Time.
SCORE strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact: Score St Louis Chapter Admin, ch.admin0021@scorevolunteer.org, 866 726-7340

Redesign Your Website - 2026 Best Practices and Key Considerations
2026-01-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00

When did you last look at your business’s website? Or perhaps you are still trying to develop one? Websites remain an incredibly popular destination for site traffic. When you add up all of the functions and ways they can work for and represent your business, nothing works harder online than a professional website.
It can also be daunting to create one with various tools and design suggestions floating around. In this workshop, we will cover recent trends in website design for businesses and other organizations. That will include the latest in content and design best practices and what tools you can use to create a site and why. But most importantly, we will cover the 10 key elements of website design that determine whether a website is just OK or great. We will also touch on submitting your site to Google for rankings and security and hosting considerations.
So, if you want to super-charge your website and make it an active resource for getting new customers, this workshop is for you!
Presenter
Matt Cail started out in the world of message boards and web design. During five years as a Washington, D.C., consultant, he became knowledgeable about emergency communications and competition in the online video industry. He has worked in social media, search engine marketing, web design, and online advertising. Matt leads Super Charge Marketing is your one-stop social media firm for all of your social media marketing needs!

Starting a Consulting/ Coaching/ Advisory Business 201
2026-01-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00

This is a follow-on program from Starting a Consulting/ Coaching/ Advisory Business 101. If you are already in business or have a foundation in consulting, this program will help you take the next steps. We will focus on getting clients, taking good care of them and avoiding the consultant’s paradox. How should you do invoicing – in advance or in arrears? What are your key performance indicators? And we will have time to answer any specific questions. This will be all real life, no theory. Come prepared to take notes and be ready to take action tomorrow morning.

All attendees will receive a free copy of Steve’s book: “Simplify Everything”

Presenter’s Bio: Steve Epner is a successful entrepreneur. He started an international association, a consulting practice, taught innovation and entrepreneurship in the MBA program at Saint Louis University, and after flunking retirement, became the Entrepreneur In Residence for Boeing. Steve was the Chairman of the Gateway Venture Mentoring Service, the St Louis Innovation Roundtable, and had managed the St Louis Regional Entrepreneurship Educators. His goal is to give back to the community that helped him be successful.
Registration Information:

Upon registering you will receive a confirmation email with the SCORE Zoom link to attend.
You do not need a Zoom account to participate.
Please connect 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The workshop begins promptly at 6:00 PM and concludes by 1:00 PM Central Time

SCORE strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact: Score St Louis Chapter Admin, ch.admin0021@scorevolunteer.org, 866 726-7340

Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials
2026-01-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
**FREE WEBINAR**
Running a business requires more than just a great idea—it takes strategy, financial literacy, and operational know-how. This workshop will provide new and existing entrepreneurs with an understanding of what is needed to build a sustainable business. We’ll cover essential topics such as business planning, marketing, and financial management to ensure long-term success.
Key Takeaways:

Learn how to create a business model that works
Understand branding and marketing fundamentals
Discover key financial tools for profitability
Identify common challenges and how to navigate them
Understand how to develop a strategy for long-term business growth

This is the first Workshop Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials in the multi-part series Simple Steps for Starting Your Business.

Rural Grocery Specialist
2026-01-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Supporting rural grocers in business transition planning is essential to keeping the benefits of hometown grocery stores in rural communities. The Rural Grocery Transition Specialist program trains and deploys resource professionals across the country to better serve rural grocers through business transitions.

Who: This course is designed for Extension professionals, economic developers and other resource providers who support rural grocers and rural community vitality across the country.
Participants will gain: Strategies for building relationships with grocery store owners and managers, understanding of transition planning and business valuation concepts, and tools to support grocery store transitions. In addition, participants will join a national network of professionals dedicated to supporting rural communities.
Format: This course contains seven online modules that include homework assignments and interactive discussion boards, paired with guided learning through four required 1.5 to 2-hour synchronous virtual meetings.
Taught by: Composed of 18 professionals from across the country, the teaching team has a wide a range of expertise related to business transition planning and rural grocery.

Visualize Your Success: Strategic Planning Tools
2026-01-20 13:00 - 16:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00
Dive into the world of strategic planning with easy-to-use visual tools designed to bring clarity to your business goals. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, learn how to define your purpose, understand your customers’ needs, and craft effective plans for growth. This virtual workshop introduces powerful tools like the Value Proposition Canvas and Business Model Canvas, equipping you with the skills to create comprehensive business, marketing, and product development strategies.
The Value Proposition Canvas and Business Model Canvas (Alex Osterwalder, Strategyzer) are easy to use, one-page visual tools which bring clarity to your business planning.
Faculty: Karen Squires Foelsch has over 30 years’ experience working in Information Technology and business management leadership roles. A former Corporate Senior Vice President, she has worked in manufacturing, scientific and educational arenas. She has extensive business planning, implementation and operational experience. She works as a consultant, is a Certified SCORE mentor, has served on non-profit boards and advises both her undergraduate and graduate universities. She is an adjunct faculty member for the University of Wisconsin – Madison as part of the teaching team for the National Science Foundation Innovation Corps program.

Sunrise Scrambler - January 2026
2026-01-21 08:00 - 09:30 | Newman University, 3100 McCormick, Wichita, KS, 67213
Sunrise Scramblers are an excellent opportunity to enjoy an early morning breakfast and business program. Attendees to these breakfast events can meet other people in the business community and gain information on relevant topics from guest speakers. Events are held at different Chamber member locations. This Sunrise Scrambler is reserved for W and Chamber members only.
Only pre-submitted questions on attendee’s registration will be allotted for the Q & A portion.
Pricing

Early Bird W and Member Ticket | $25*

*Be sure to register early as ticket prices increase to $35 if registering after January 14 at 11:59 p.m. Registration will close January 20 at 11:59 p.m. unless sold out in advance. Walk-ups will not be permitted.

Understanding the 1% Sales Tax Election

In March, Wichita voters will decide on a 1-percent sales tax that would generate an estimated $850 million for city investments. The proposal includes funding for Century II, a convention center expansion, a new performing arts center, public safety capital improvements, homelessness services and affordable housing, and property tax relief. We’ll provide facts, outline what is being proposed, and help voters understand the details ahead of the election.

Event Timeline

8:00 a.m.
Doors open for check-in & networking
Breakfast begins

8:30 a.m.
Program begins

9:30 a.m.
Program ends

Presenting Sponsor

Host and Breakfast Sponsor

Thank you to our Strong Business Investors
Leadership
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas | Emprise Bank | Koch
Success
Professional Engineering Consultants, P.A.
Opportunity
AGH CPAs & Advisors | Equity Bank | INTRUST Bank | Occidental Management, Inc. | Schaefer Architecture
Small Business Pioneer
Cornerstone Data | StewardRight

Attendees of Chamber events agree to allow the Chamber and/or its official photographer to capture their image via photograph, video, or screenshot in the context of the event. Footage captured by the Chamber and/or its official photographer may be posted on social media, shared with media outlets, and/or used in future print and electronic promotional materials.
Refund Policy:
The Chamber’s policy is to require payment in advance for admission to all Chamber events due to commitments to our vendors. If you cannot attend, we welcome substitutions, so please send an alternate from your company. Unless otherwise stated on registration materials, the deadline to request a refund for an event registration you cannot attend is two business days before the event. Chamber event reservations not kept, or canceled less than two business days prior to the event, will not be eligible for a refund, and will be billed if they have not yet been paid. Please call 316-265-7771 with any questions regarding the cancellation policy.
Checks and credit cards are the only accepted methods of payment for this event; no cash, please.

Lead with Purpose & Impact: A Leadership Journey for Small Business Owners
2026-01-21 09:00 - 11:00 | Johnson County Community College, RC, Regnier Center, 234 , 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS, 66210
This 4-session leadership development course is designed specifically for small business owners to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
This course goes beyond theory, inviting participants into deep reflection, honest conversations, and practical application. The training integrates leadership styles, the influence of lived experiences, and the emotional truths of leading a business. Through interactive exercises, coaching frameworks, and actionable tools, participants will sharpen their decision-making, build stronger teams, and elevate their leadership presence with purpose and authenticity.
Business owners interested in this series should already have employees or are actively hiring/ready to hire.
Dates
January 21, 2026
February 4, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 4, 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Location: Kansas SBDC at Johnson County Community College
12345 College Blvd – Regnier Center building
Overland Park, KS 66210
Full details for each session and registration can be found at https://jcccsbdc.com/lead/

Fundamentals of Effective Business Networking
2026-01-21 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00
Networking is not typically taught and, for many, is not a skill that comes naturally. In this presentation, attendees will learn how to develop and grow their professional and personal relationships. You’ll leave with techniques that can help build your networks, enhance your business relationships, and network for referrals and sales opportunities..
Speaker’s Bio: Chris Ruzicka generates new client referrals for Carmody MacDonald, develops new marketing opportunities, and helps the firm grow. Chris equips the attorneys with techniques and resources to improve their business development and marketing skills. Chris’ extensive business development and marketing experience ranging from start-ups to large organizations including Anheuser-Busch, Sara Lee, and Citi enables him to bring to the firm continuous innovation and proven best practices.
Chris volunteers for several St. Louis organizations, including Ronald McDonald House Charities and Boys Hope Girls Hope, and served on the Board of Trustees for Chaminade College Preparatory School, and is Past President of Ursuline Academy Fathers’ Club.
Registration Information:

Upon registering you will receive a confirmation email with the SCORE Zoom link to attend.
You do not need a Zoom account to participate.
Please connect 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection. The workshop begins promptly at 12:00 PM and concludes by 1:00 PM Central Time.

SCORE strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact: Score St Louis Chapter Admin, ch.admin0021@scorevolunteer.org, 866 726-7340.

Relationship Marketing 101: Turning Contacts into Customers
2026-01-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Relationship Marketing 101: Turning Contacts into Customers and Customers into Advocates
**This is the FREE Introductory Session for a new Webinar.** (Checkout Relationship Marketing 102 – our comprehensive webinar which is the follow-up.) Marketing today isn’t about chasing sales. It’s about building trust over time. In this introductory session, you’ll learn what relationship marketing really is and why it’s the foundation of sustainable business growth. We’ll explore the key channels that support long-term customer relationships including email, text messaging, social media, websites, reviews, loyalty programs, and lead magnets and how they work together to create a cohesive customer experience. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how consistent connection drives repeat business, referrals, and social proof, plus a preview of how modern tools and AI can make relationship marketing easier to manage, even for small teams.
Faculty: KIm Beer. Kim is a multi-talented Growth Facilitator, national speaker and advocate for small business. She is cohost of the popular podcast “The Business Animal” and the author of “The Little Book of Big Sales Moves.” Her mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented tactics that will carry their business and their creativity to the next level. Kim’s seminars and workshops on entrepreneurial strategy, marketing, and personal development are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction garnered from over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience. She offers experiential opportunities for personal development and growth through her Synchronicity Sessions. Kim is also an award-winning writer, graphic designer and photographer. She holds a certification as an Equine Gestaltist from Touched by a Horse and is a certified Hypnotist through the International Association of Counselors and Therapists.

Military Affairs Luncheon - Fueling Wichita's Future
2026-01-23 11:30 - 13:00 | Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview, 400 West Douglas Ave., 67203, United States
Military Affairs Luncheons are an opportunity to network, enjoy a lunch, and participate in a business program. Attendees can meet other people in the business and military community and gain information on relevant topics from guest speakers. Events are held at different Chamber member locations.
We are proud to announce Colonel Joseph D. Wall, Commander of McConnell AFB and the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, as keynote speaker for the Wichita Chamber Military Affairs Luncheon. This is a unique opportunity to hear from a distinguished leader and strengthen the bonds between Wichita and McConnell’s Airmen. Join us in welcoming Colonel Wall and engaging in this important community conversation.

Pricing

Corporate Table Sponsor (Reserved Table of 8) | $650
Military Ticket | $30
Early Bird Member Ticket | $50*
Not Yet a Member Ticket | $60

You must be logged in to the Members Only Portal to purchase tickets for this event. Click here to log in.

Event Timeline

11:30 a.m.
Doors open for check-in & networking

11:40 a.m.
Lunch served

12:05 p.m.
Program begins

1:00 p.m.
Program ends

Presenting Sponsor

Corporate Table
Kansas Leadership Center

Host Sponsor
Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview

Thank you to our Military Affairs Investors
Success
Bombardier | Cornerstone Data
Opportunity
Bank of America | BG Products, Inc. | Cargill Protein Group | Davis-Moore Automotive, Inc.
Evergy | iSi Environmental Services | OxyChem of Wichita | Wichita State University | WSU Tech
Growth
Grand Canyon University | TESSERE
Walser Auto Campus | Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas, Inc.

Attendees of Chamber events agree to allow the Chamber and/or its official photographer to capture their image via photograph, video, or screenshot in the context of the event. Footage captured by the Chamber and/or its official photographer may be posted on social media, shared with media outlets, and/or used in future print and electronic promotional materials.
Refund Policy:
The Chamber’s policy is to require payment in advance for admission to all Chamber events due to commitments to our vendors. If you cannot attend, we welcome substitutions, so please send an alternate from your company. Unless otherwise stated on registration materials, the deadline to request a refund for an event registration you cannot attend is two business days before the event. Chamber event reservations not kept, or canceled less than two business days prior to the event, will not be eligible for a refund, and will be billed if they have not yet been paid. Please call 316-265-7771 with any questions regarding the cancellation policy.
Checks and credit cards are the only accepted methods of payment for this event; no cash, please.

Lunch and Learn: 5 Ways to Use ChatGPT (AI) for small business
2026-01-23 11:30 - 13:30 | Online Event
Cost: $10.00

AI (Artificial Intelligence) can make you a more efficient marketer. Learn to use ChatGPT (AI) for marketing your small business, starting with your own information for:
1. Condensing/Expanding Messages: ChatGPT assists in summarizing complex ideas for social media/email, and elaborating on brief concepts for blogs/newsletters/presentations.
2. Understanding Consumer Problems: By analyzing vast online data, ChatGPT aids in consumer research, identifying sentiments/preferences, and simulating customer interactions.
3. Filling Branding Gaps: ChatGPT helps you strengthen your branding by ensuring consistency in tone/messaging, suggesting refinements, and generating ideas for unique selling propositions.
4. Technical Quick Reference: ChatGPT provides step-by-step instructions for technical tasks, eliminating barriers to technical competency.
5. Social Media Post Generation: ChatGPT can automate social media post creation, streamlining marketing efforts for solopreneurs and small businesses.
Faculty: KIm Beer. Kim is a multi-talented Growth Facilitator, national speaker and advocate for small business. She is cohost of the popular podcast “The Business Animal” and the author of “The Little Book of Big Sales Moves.” Her mission is to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to create results-oriented tactics that will carry their business and their creativity to the next level. Kim’s seminars and workshops on entrepreneurial strategy, marketing, and personal development are honest, enlightening and packed with great action steps and technical instruction garnered from over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience. She offers experiential opportunities for personal development and growth through her Synchronicity Sessions. Kim is also an award-winning writer, graphic designer and photographer. She holds a certification as an Equine Gestaltist from Touched by a Horse and is a certified Hypnotist through the International Association of Counselors and Therapists.

Marketing Strategy
2026-01-24 10:00 - 11:30 | Online Event
In this **FREE Webinar**, you will learn that Marketing is more than advertising. Marketing Strategy provides you with an introduction to marketing methods & tools to maximize your customer reach.
This session covers pricing strategies, positioning, the difference between features and benefits, and different marketing strategies.
At the end of this session, you will know how to:
* Outline your marketing strategy
* Test your marketing message
* Choose the right sales channel
* Implement your marketing strategy
Faculty: Janet Elie. Janet has over 30 years’ experience in management, marketing and sales within the Financial Services Industry. In the last 4 years, Janet has dedicated her services to coaching small business owners with online marketing, social media, email marketing, and consulting on what improvements need to be made to attract the right audience to their business. Janet favorite motto is “have laptop will travel” so she can be anywhere while helping her clients, by a beach, sipping wine, or hiking in a forest.
This is part of the second Workshop Group (Polishing Your Business Idea, Marketing Strategy & Social Media Marketing) in SCORE’s multi-part series: Workshop 1 – Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials, and Workshop Group 3 – Demystifying Financial Foundations, Funding Your Dream & Creating Realistic Financial Projections.
Please connect at least 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection.

Social Media Marketing
2026-01-24 11:45 - 13:15 | Online Event
In this **FREE Webinar**, you will learn the basics of Social Media Marketing, and how it fits into your overall marketing strategy.
At the end of this webinar, you’ll learn:
* The steps it takes to get a business presence online
* How your online presence affects your marketing
* Ways you can get a website, social media and email marketing set up for your business
* The basics of developing an online marketing strategy
Faculty: Janet Elie. Janet has over 30 years’ experience in management, marketing and sales within the Financial Services Industry. In the last 4 years, Janet has dedicated her services to coaching small business owners with online marketing, social media, email marketing, and consulting on what improvements need to be made to attract the right audience to their business. Janet’s favorite motto is “have laptop will travel” so she can be anywhere while helping her clients, by a beach, sipping wine, or hiking in a forest.
This is part of the second Workshop Group (Polishing Your Business Idea, Marketing Strategy & Social Media Marketing) in SCORE’s multi-part series: Workshop 1 – Small Business Success: Mastering the Essentials, and Workshop Group 3 – Demystifying Financial Foundations, Funding Your Dream & Creating Realistic Financial Projections.
Please connect at least 5 minutes in advance to be sure you have a good connection.
