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Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities

CEC monthly webinars

CEC monthly exchange

Register for the webinar series

Join us for the 2025 CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series, a webinar series dedicated to showcasing the power of collaboration in rural Missouri communities. In 2025, we spotlight successful stories of collaboration that are driving innovation, strengthening connections, and creating lasting impact in our small towns and rural regions.  

Attendees will hear real stories with real impact directly from community leaders, organizations, and individuals who have successfully worked together to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. At the end of each webinar, we leave time for Q&A sessions with speakers and peers to exchange ideas and build networks.  

Whether you're an economic development or nonprofit professional, local official, business owner, or simply passionate about rural development, the CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series is your go-to for inspiration, learning, and connection.

Series info

December 5 – How Collaboration is Fueling the 100-Year Celebration of Route 66

In December we will feature members of the planning team for the Route 66 Centennial Celebration! Learn how this major statewide and national effort got its start right in Springfield—born from a neighborhood-led initiative that grew into a collaborative movement to honor 100 years of America’s most famous highway. The team will share how local partnerships are driving big plans for Springfield’s celebration, including art installations, sculptures, and community events that capture the spirit of Route 66. Don’t miss this inspiring look at collaboration in action!

Panelists include:

  • Cora Scott, Director, Public Information & Citizen Engagement, City of Springfield and Chair, Missouri Route 66 Centennial Commission
  • Heidi Herrman-Bacon, Director, Springfield 66
  • Rusty Worley, Director of Community Engagement, Toth & Associates, Inc.