Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities - University of Missouri Extension

Join Jackie Spainhower for an inspiring journey through the innovative educational and community development initiatives showcased in our latest CEC Monthly Exchange webinar. 🔹 About the Webinar: In this session, Dr. Sandy Steggall, Lucas Delameter, and students from Plattsburgh share the transformative story of "Tigers on Main," a student-operated retail store. This initiative not only revolutionizes the learning experience by instilling entrepreneurial skills in students but also significantly contributes to local economic development. 🔹 Highlights Include: - The origins and evolution of the Tigers on Main store. - Real-world skills and business management experience gained by students. - The impact on the community and the integration of school projects with local business needs. 🔹 Why Watch? - Educators and Administrators: Gain valuable insights into how practical business education can be seamlessly integrated into school curriculums. - Community Leaders and Entrepreneurs: Explore the potential of educational partnerships to boost local economies and engage youth. - Students and Parents: See firsthand the benefits of immersive learning experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges. Don’t miss out on this compelling story of growth, community engagement, and student empowerment. Watch the full recording to get inspired and learn how similar models can be implemented in your community! https://lnkd.in/gSE4c9Rg

🌟 Discover the untold stories of Missouri with the CEC Monthly Exchange webinar! 🎥 Join us on YouTube to watch an enriching session with Caitlin Yager from Missouri Humanities , as she talks with Annette Kendall about the fascinating world of Missouri's small towns and their unique narratives. Caitlyn's passion for bringing these stories to light is evident as she discusses the importance of storytelling in understanding our heritage and shaping our communities. 🔗 Watch the webinar on YouTube and see how Missouri Humanities is making a difference by connecting people to the rich tapestry of stories that Missouri has to offer. 📆 Don't miss out on the chance to gain new perspectives and appreciate the human connections that weave together the story of Missouri. This webinar isn't just about listening; it's about engaging with the heart and soul of community life. #CECExchange #MissouriHumanities #RuralDevelopment #Storytelling #CommunityEngagement https://lnkd.in/gCK3DxBF

"This was my first experience with the CEC conference. It was empowering to meet people from all over the country who want to see small businesses in rural communities succeed. The challenges small business owners face are many. Seeing that recognized and having a resource like the CEC conference was so encouraging. I really want to attend next year!" — Brooke Bartlett, Owner of GoPo- Gourmet Popcorn We're still feeling the energy from the 2024 CEC Conference! Hearing from business owners like Brooke, who are motivated and ready to face the unique challenges of rural entrepreneurship, reminds us why this event matters so much. Can’t wait to see what 2025 CEC Excelsior Springs has in store! https://lnkd.in/gFzfzgtR Callaway Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 🌟 #CECFulton2024 #EmpoweredEntrepreneurs #RuralBusinessSuccess #CommunitySupport #GoPoGourmetPopcorn

"To see and hear from so many powerful entrepreneurs right here in one place was an honor. I walked in to volunteer but I walked away empowered and inspired." — Lauren Jungermann, Owner of Lauren Jungermann Agency LLC, American Family Insurance At the 2024 CEC Conference, it wasn’t just the speakers and sessions that made an impact—it was the energy and inspiration shared by everyone, from attendees to volunteers. Lauren’s experience captures the heart of what this conference is all about: connection, empowerment, and the spark to keep pushing forward in our entrepreneurial journeys. 💡 Feeling inspired and ready for more in 2025? Sign up at the link below to stay up to date as we plan for CEC Excelsior Springs 2025. https://lnkd.in/gBxR4HEW Callaway Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center #CECFulton #InspirationInAction #EntrepreneurialEmpowerment #VolunteerSpirit #CommunityGrowth #CECExcelsiorSprings

"As the Brick District President as well as a business owner, I felt an incredible honor for the conference to pick our community. This has truly enriched Fulton as well as myself in so many ways." – Garry Vaught, President of the Brick District and owner of Beks Restaurant The 2024 CEC Conference in Fulton was not just a conference—it was a moment for Fulton to shine. From showcasing the thriving Brick District to building deeper connections with entrepreneurs and leaders across Missouri, the impact is lasting. Thank you to Garry and all the local Fulton businesses for making this experience unforgettable! Looking ahead to 2025 in Excelsior Springs! Callaway Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center https://lnkd.in/gG6M3G3E #CECFulton2024 #BrickDistrictPride #CommunityEnrichment #LocalBusinesses #RuralInnovation

💼✨"Volunteering at the Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference was a good chance to help, meet people, and show off our amazing community." – Russel Sing, Owner of Expressive Inks LLC and Fulton Fire Chief From entrepreneurs to volunteers, the 2024 CEC Conference in Fulton was all about connection, collaboration, and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Fulton. We're so grateful to everyone who played a part in making this event a success, including incredible local volunteers like Russel! 🌟 Ready to see what's next? We can't wait for 2025 in Excelsior Springs! Callaway Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center #CECFulton2024 #FultonPride #VolunteerSpotlight #RuralEntrepreneurship #CommunityFirst

✨Throwback to this time last month, when we had just wrapped up the incredible 2024 CEC Conference in Fulton! ✨ “We were honored to be given the opportunity to show off our business community in Fulton and across Callaway County. It was a chance to showcase the collaboration of our business community, chamber, and municipalities, that work diligently to make our business ecosystem great.” – Tamara Tateosian, IOM, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center. The conference brought together over 120 attendees who explored the vibrant Fulton community, connected with rural entrepreneurs, and shared best practices. It was an unforgettable experience filled with learning, collaboration, and inspiration. We are still buzzing from the energy of that week, and we're already looking forward to what 2025 will bring in Excelsior Springs! 🌟 #CECFulton2024 #RuralEntrepreneurship #Throwback #FultonMissouri #CommunityBuilding #CityofExcelsiorSprings

📣 Join us for a compelling CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar on Friday, November 1st at 1:30 PM! This session features Caitlin Yager from Missouri Humanities , the driving force behind the transformative Small Town Showcase program. Caitlin is dedicated to enriching the cultural and educational fabric of rural communities through innovative programs. Join us to learn more about her impactful work and initiatives aimed at revitalizing small towns. The November webinar will be hosted by Dr. Annette Kendall from the University of Missouri, a passionate advocate for entrepreneurial empowerment in rural regions. Dr. Kendall's initiatives focus on leveraging innovation for economic development in these communities. 🎯 Elected officials, community leaders, and professionals in economic development, this is your chance to gain valuable insights and inspiration for fostering growth and opportunity in rural areas. 🗓️ Register at the link below to join us for an enriching discussion that promises to inspire and inform. https://lnkd.in/gX8XR4JV #CECExchange #RuralDevelopment #CommunityLeadership #MissouriHumanities

Curious about how different generations are shaping the future of our communities and workplaces? Don't miss the engaging insights from our latest CEC Monthly Exchange webinar! Jonathan Bell, a dynamic Gen Z entrepreneur and founder of That GenZ Agency, emphasizes the importance of inclusive community involvement: "I believe my generation is very scared to get involved because they feel as if their voices won't be heard. My suggestion to those who are a bit older and can make the decisions within communities is definitely let them know that they have that choice and enable that decision-making process, and then I believe that you'll have some open doors coming in." Echoing Jonathan's sentiment, Christel Gollnick from Roots and Rounds, Inc. advocates for active listening and inclusion in decision-making processes: "Make sure that the people who are having decisions impact their lives, make sure that they have an opportunity to be a part of that decision-making, even if it's just influencing the decision because they've been listening." Tune into our recorded session on the CEC YouTube channel to explore how these generational perspectives can enrich our communities and lead to more effective collaboration. Dive deeper into understanding and empowering all generations! 📅 Save the date for our next webinar on November 1st with Caitlin Yeager from Missouri Humanities ! https://lnkd.in/gXtudh4C #CECMonthlyExchange #Leadership #CommunityDevelopment #IntergenerationalCollaboration #GenZ #WebinarHighlights

We are thrilled to announce that Excelsior Springs, Missouri, will be the host for the 2025 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference.     Known for its healing mineral waters and the iconic The Elms Hotel and Spa, Excelsior Springs has been a destination of rejuvenation, reflection, and renewal for over a century. In 2025, economic development professionals, elected officials, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders will gather here to explore innovative ideas and take time for personal and professional rejuvenation.     Get ready for a conference filled with inspiration and opportunities for growth, in the perfect environment to recharge. Let’s connect, refresh, and plan for the future in this beautiful historic town.     Make sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay tuned for more details — and prepare for an unforgettable experience in 2025! 👏 https://lnkd.in/dhupdJRp    #CECE2025 #ExcelsiorSprings #Entrepreneurship #CommunityInnovation #ReflectionReinventionRenewal