EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension invites economic developers, chamber of commerce directors, nonprofit professionals and community leaders from across the state to attend the 2025 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference, Sept. 30-Oct. 2, in downtown Excelsior Springs.

CEC Conference chair Ashley Allen-Brown said the conference is designed to empower those working to strengthen Missouri’s small towns through entrepreneurship, innovation and engagement. This year’s theme is “Refresh. Revive. Replenish Your Entrepreneurial Toolkit!” The event will feature 25 breakout sessions, local success stories and networking opportunities tailored for community-driven change-makers, Allen-Brown said.

MU Vice Chancellor for Extension and Engagement Chad Higgins will deliver opening remarks.

“Missouri’s small towns are brimming with potential, and the CEC Conference is where community champions come together to turn that potential into progress,” Higgins said. “Whether you're revitalizing a downtown, launching a youth entrepreneurship program or leading a chamber of commerce, this conference offers the tools, inspiration and connections to make your vision a reality. I encourage every leader who cares about the future of their community to attend.”

Excelsior Springs entrepreneurs Jim and Daphne Bowman of Willow Mercantile will follow Higgins with an opening keynote, “Evolution of the Entrepreneur.”

Organized annually by the Business and Communities division of MU Extension, CEC is more than a conference, Allen-Brown said. “It’s a statewide movement to foster grassroots economic development,” she said. “Participants will leave with practical strategies and lasting connections that can spark transformation in their own communities.”

Early bird registration is available through June 16; register now to save $25. Visit muext.us/CECconference for details.

“Join us in Excelsior Springs and be part of Missouri’s growing network of entrepreneurial leaders shaping the future—one community at a time,” Allen-Brown said.