Excelsior Springs, September 30 – October 2, 2025
Learn more about the 2025 CEC Conference host community - Excelsior Springs
What is the Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference?
The Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) Conference is a transformative annual event hosted by MU Extension. It unites entrepreneurs, business leaders and community stakeholders across Missouri to spark collaboration and drive innovation. This conference is a vital platform for sharing the best practices, gaining insights from one another’s experiences, and exchanging ideas to elevate rural economic development through entrepreneurship. By highlighting local businesses and entrepreneurial talents, the CEC Conference attracts a diverse audience and shows the remarkable assets of participating communities.
Why you can’t miss the 2025 CEC Conference!
The CEC Conference is essential for anyone looking to connect with and empower entrepreneurial communities in Missouri. It offers a unique space for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration among key players, including entrepreneurs, business leaders, economic developers, local government officials, and practitioners devoted to stimulating growth in rural areas.
The conference features an array of engaging activities — dynamic breakout sessions, thought-provoking panel discussions and enriching networking opportunities — giving you the chance to learn from industry leaders and forge valuable partnerships. Attending the CEC Conference not only amplifies your own experience but significantly enhances the entrepreneurial spirit and resources of rural communities, ultimately attracting investors, funding agencies and fresh talent eager to contribute to local economic growth.
Join us in this incredible gathering held annually in small, rural Missouri communities. Previous conferences have taken place in vibrant locations such as Lincoln, Cole Camp, Warsaw, Hermann and Hannibal, each bringing its unique charm and opportunities.
Don’t wait – Register today!
Seize the moment by taking advantage of discounted Early Bird registration rates, available until June 15, 2025! Don’t miss your chance to be part of an impactful event that can shape the future of entrepreneurship in Missouri.
Interested in sponsoring the 2025 CEC Conference?
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What people are saying
"This has been a wonderful conference filled with tangible takeaways to put into practice almost immediately in my community. The connections have been invaluable!"
"This has been the best most impactful conference ever! Hosting the seminars in actual businesses was perfect."
"This was an excellent conference very affordable and easy to attend. Wish I could have made it to all of the sessions!"