Join us for one of the region’s most anticipated business events of the year — the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce 138th Annual Dinner, presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City.
This year’s theme, KC Made, celebrates the people, ideas, and innovations that define Kansas City’s bold spirit and homegrown success. From world-class entrepreneurs and civic visionaries to championship teams and creative trailblazers, KC Made honors the powerful impact of everything built and grown right here in our region.
The evening features a lively reception, seated dinner, and an inspiring program highlighting the leadership shaping our region. Along the way, you’ll hear two special mini panels celebrating Kansas City’s rise as a global soccer capital. The first revisits the history of how KC became a soccer powerhouse, featuring our World Cup honorary co-chairs, Clark Hunt of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Cliff Illig of Sporting Kansas City . The second looks ahead to the 10-year journey that led to our selection as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City, with insights from FIFA leaders and local champions who made it happen.
You’ll also hear reflections from outgoing Board Chair Charlie Shields of University Health and a forward-looking vision from incoming Board Chair Jeff Simon of Husch Blackwell.
The celebration caps off with one of Kansas City’s most treasured traditions: the announcement of the 2025 Kansas Citian of the Year, a surprise reveal honoring those whose contributions have left a lasting mark on our community.
This year we will be joined by Ad Astra Chamber Orchestra of Kansas City during our reception and dinner as they provide music throughout the evening.
Reserve your seat and be part of the story KC is making.
Historic Mini Panel: How Kansas City Became a Soccer Capital
Moderator: Joe Reardon, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
Panelists: Cliff Illig, Sporting KC | Clark Hunt, Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City is now celebrated as one of the world’s great soccer cities but how did we get here? This panel revisits Lamar Hunt’s vision after the 1994 World Cup, his role in founding Major League Soccer, and his ownership of the Kansas City Wizards. When Hunt sold the team but kept it in KC, Cliff Illig stepped forward as its “guardian,” leading the transformation into today’s globally respected Sporting KC.
Clark Hunt and Cliff Illig will share how those early commitments—KC Made through bold vision and local leadership—built the foundation for our thriving soccer culture and set the stage for FIFA World Cup 26™. Clark reflects on his World Cup memories with his father, while Joe Reardon thanks both leaders for serving as honorary co-chairs of KC2026.
Part 2: The Next Phase of Kansas City’s Soccer Story
Moderator: Kathy Nelson, Greater Kansas City Sports Commission & Visit KC
Panelists: Amy Hopfinger, FIFA World Cup 2026
Why did FIFA select Kansas City as a 2026 Host City? This panel takes us inside the decade-long journey to secure the bid: who was involved, how the process unfolded, and why KC ultimately rose to the top. From the strategy behind the proposal to the collaboration across city, state, and regional partners, attendees will hear firsthand how teamwork and vision—KC Made through determination and regional pride—carried our community onto the global stage.
Panelists will also discuss the professional and business side of soccer in our city, what to expect when the world arrives in 2026, and why Kansas City should be confident in its ability to deliver a world-class experience. Looking ahead, they’ll share how hosting FIFA’s biggest stage opens doors for future opportunities—and what it means for KC’s international reputation.
We are looking forward to celebrating with you at the KC Chamber’s 138th Annual Dinner! In preparation for a fun evening, look at the information below to answer some frequently asked questions. More details will be added as we get closer to the event.
When and where is the event?
Annual Dinner
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom | Kansas City Convention Center
301 W. 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
What’s the itinerary for the evening?
4:00 p.m. | Networking Reception
5:30 p.m. | Dinner and Program
What is the attire?
Attire for Annual Dinner is business professional.
$3,000 Supporter Sponsor | Includes (1) table with (8) seats, logo recognition in the program and on table signage, (1) bottle of wine during your dinner program, (4) complimentary parking passes.
$200 Individual tickets
For additional sponsorship opportunities please email annualdinner@kcchamber.com.
November 25, 2025
4:00 p.m. | Networking Reception
5:30 p.m. | Dinner and Program
