Reflections 2025

Happy New Year to all of our chamber members and community partners!

This past year was one of growth, new partnerships, and continued success for our membership. We welcomed over 25 new chamber members, increasing the total membership by 50% since 2023, and added the NKC Business Council to the River Partnership. During our second year of signature events, the Economic Summit and ArtWalk Riverside, attendance for both events doubled over 2024, allowing us to continue to increase awareness of the Riverside Chamber and attract new visitors to our community.  Thanks to Mayor Kathy Rose and our City administrators,  Parade of Hearts 2026 will celebrate free public arts events in Riverside this year.  In collaboration with our Pillar Partner NKC Health, the Chamber hosted a Community Health Fair at the MCPL Riverside branch. This event will also take place in 2026, along with A Riverside Christmas, in partnership with the City of Riverside.

We anticipate exponential growth in visitors due to the Morton Amphitheater events, beginning in June and continuing through the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches from June 11 through July 19, 2026.  Our Chamber members will have the opportunity on July 3, 2026, to participate in the Watch Party and events celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the City of Riverside and America’s 250th birthday at Morton Amphitheater.

As your Executive Director, I am an active member of the World Cup 2026KC Game Plan Committee and the Visitor Hospitality and Cultural Insights Project Team.

Another new opportunity for our members to showcase their business is through   GoNorthKC.com. This website, a collaboration between the Clay and Platte County tourism agencies, focuses on digital and social media assets and is free to use.

The Chamber will host the Economic Summit twice this year, as well as the 3rd Annual ArtWalk Riverside, which will be held on July 3 during the Watch Party at Morton Amphitheater.

Congratulations to our Business of the Year, Bootleg Bourbon Balls, and our Community Connector, Callsign Brewing.  Both members received their awards at our annual Holiday Party held at the Argosy Hotel in December.

We could not be prouder of the nature and scope of the events in our town this coming year and look forward, as always, to our friendship and partnership with each of you.

Wishing you the best in the New Year!

Lorraine Moore

Executive Director, Riverside Area Chamber of Commerce