In 2010, we have several programs that are specifically designed for our small business members:

Member Welcome Series

• Chamber 101 Part of a three part orientation series for members, the 101’s are held monthly for new members to the Chamber, new employees of Chamber member companies and existing members looking for a refresher course on how to receive the greatest value from Chamber membership. Chamber 101 features a member one-minute “infomercial” opportunity plus a welcome from the President/CEO of the Chamber, member testimonials, and an overview of the interest tracks available to customize your Chamber experience.
• New Member Business Exchange The second event in the member orientation series is held quarterly. This is a great opportunity for attendees to meet one-on-one in five-minute rotations where they describe their respective businesses, exchange business cards and pass on referrals.
• New Member Mixer The third in the member orientation series is held quarterly. These mixers are for businesses looking for the next level of value and involvement. This event is an open format where you can connect with other Chamber members and ask questions of Chamber staff and volunteers to obtain more details on the benefits available to members.

CEO Roundtable This event is a bi-monthly meeting exclusively for small business CEOs. Each session will be a facilitated, open forum
for small business CEOs to share and discuss issues critical to the success of their business.

Eggs and Issues Informative breakfast sessions that will include elected officials and/or representatives from local governments or the business community sharing information and discussing cutting-edge topics. This is a prime opportunity to meet elected officials.

Quarterly Government Relations Forum Open forum for small business to learn the legislative process and get involved! Forums will include discussion of chamber legislative agenda topics and how to make a difference in Topeka.

Small Business Awards This annual program, featuring three events, provides local small businesses the opportunity to showcase their company, share their story, and be rewarded for their impact on our community. Applicants are divided into two tiers, based on employee size, in order to fairly evaluate their strengths. One business from each tier is named the Small Business of the Year.

Taking Care of Business Seminars These seminars are an opportunity for business owners and senior executives to learn from industry leaders. Each of the two planned seminars will be approximately three hours in length and will feature informal presentations, a question and answer exchange and interactive dialogue with peers.
 

Exclusive training opportunity for Chamber small business members only! Leadership Elite, an eight session program offered by Wichita State University and led by Dr. Gerald Graham, provides a fantastic opportunity for leadership training along with peer-to-peer interaction and learning. Save more than 50% off course fees when offered to the public. Click here for more information.

Additionally, we have the following programs which are of interest and value to all members:

Annual Meeting This signature event includes a celebration of the year’s accomplishments, a brief presentation on the priorities for the upcoming year and a presentation by a nationally known speaker.

Chamber Issue Forum This breakfast or luncheon event sets the stage for up-to-the-minute, one-on-one dialogue with a guest speaker on an issue or concern important to Chamber members, area businesses or the community.

Chairman’s Lunch Local, state and/or national speakers present topics relevant to current business trends and issues in our local community.

Exposure Encounter Wichita Metro Business at the Chamber’s annual business-to-business tradeshow. Exposure includes networking opportunities, a keynote speaker and professional development seminars.

Federal Issue Forum The forum sets the stage for up-to-the-minute, one-on-one dialogue with Washington lawmakers on a variety of issues important to Chamber members and area businesses.

Golf Classic Bring your game and enhance your network! Mix and mingle with your fellow Chamber members at the annual Chamber Golf Classic held each June.

Honors Night  Held annually in April, this sell-out event recognizes achievements of Chamber members in three categories: corporate, architectural and individual. The awards are Over the Years, Keeper of the Plains and Uncommon Citizen.

Local Elected Officials Reception This reception is a networking reception that recognizes elected officials and legislators. This event is a virtual “who’s who” of Wichita and Sedgwick County’s business and political community.

Metro Mingle New event for 2010! Making connections is what it’s all about. The Metro Mingle events are your opportunity to interact with fellow members in an informal business setting. Enjoy wonderful food, drinks and fun while making new contacts.

State Legislator Reception and Appreciation Dinner After the legislative session, the Chamber hosts this upscale evening which includes a pre-dinner social hour, dinner, music and an opportunity to visit one-on-one with your Senator and/or Representative and other legislative leaders.

Sunrise Scrambler Come ready to build your business and build your brand while interacting with 125-150 business leaders. This event is held at various Chamber member businesses around the Wichita community 12 times per year. Each includes time for connecting with others and listening to presentations on relevant business topics.

Topeka Legislative Reception Held in Topeka during the Kansas legislative session, this reception is the perfect occasion for Chamber members to meet and greet statewide elected officials. This evening is a must for every business person who wants to be on the inside track where legislative activity is concerned.