2025 Conference
Excelsior Springs, Missouri (September 30 – October 2)
The 2025 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference sparked momentum in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, turning the community into a vibrant hub of innovation, connection, and collaboration. The event energized local businesses, showcased the city’s unique venues and cultural assets, and generated meaningful visitor activity. More importantly, its impact extended far beyond the event itself. Participants left with practical tools, strengthened peer networks, and actionable strategies they carried back to their home communities — multiplying the conference’s influence through stronger entrepreneurship support systems, workforce development efforts, and expanded civic capacity across Missouri.
Program impact
The 2025 CEC Conference delivered measurable results for Missouri communities:
- 165+ leaders from 49 Missouri Counties and 4 states convened at the 2025 conference
- Nearly 20% increase in participant understanding of key economic development concepts reported
- 100% of 2025 CEC Conference presenters were rated Effective or Highly Effective
Participants consistently highlight sessions on grant-writing frameworks, downtown financing strategies, social capital building, and microbusiness support as especially valuable for local implementation.
Watch the 2025 CEC Conference Recap Video!
2024 Conference
Fulton, Missouri (September 17–19, 2024)
The 2024 Connecting Entrepreneurial Conference delivered on its promise, electrifying Callaway County with the vibrant energy of the Brick District’s entrepreneurial spirit. Drawing over 100 passionate attendees and securing major sponsorships, the event proved to be a powerhouse celebration of innovation, connection, and local business growth.
2023 Conference
Lincoln, Cole Camp, and Warsaw, Missouri (September 20-21, 2023)
The Connecting Entrepreneurial Conference lived up to its name in 2023, showcasing three well connected entrepreneurial communities in Benton County, and attracting over 100 participants.
2022 Conference
Hermann, Missouri (September 21-22, 2022)
Momentum built in Hermann as the Creating Entrepreneurial Conference drew over 120 attendees in 2022!
Breakout Session Descriptions (PDF)
2021 Conference
Hannibal, Missouri (September 29-30, 2021)
73 participants and speakers from 36 different towns across 3 states came together for the first Creating Entrepreneurial Conference!