Kansas Chamber of Commerce facts for kids
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| Founded | 1924 |
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| Type | Non-Profit |
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Area served
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Kansas |
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Key people
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Alan Cobb (President & CEO) |
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Formerly called
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Kansas Association of Chambers of Commerce Kansas State Chamber of Commerce Kansas Association of Commerce and Industry |
The Kansas Chamber of Commerce (KCC) is a group that helps businesses all across the state of Kansas. It's like a big team for companies, working to make Kansas a great place to do business and grow.
Contents
The Story of the Kansas Chamber
How It Started
The Kansas Chamber of Commerce began in 1924. About 40 local business groups met in Hutchinson, Kansas. Their main goal was to make the state's roads better. Back then, it was called the Kansas Association of Chambers of Commerce.
Growing and Changing Names
In 1925, the group changed its name to the Kansas Chamber of Commerce. They decided to do even more! They started helping with farming, water, and natural resources. They also worked to tell people about Kansas and its many good things.
In 1927, the Chamber's main office moved from Kansas City, Kansas to Topeka, Kansas. This move put them closer to the state's lawmakers.
By 1930, the Chamber had many special groups. These groups focused on things like farming, industry, tourism, and education.
The Chamber's name changed a few more times over the years:
- In 1938, it became the Kansas State Chamber of Commerce.
- In 1972, it was called the Kansas Association of Commerce and Industry.
- In 1987, it changed to the Kansas Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- Finally, in 2004, it went back to its 1925 name: Kansas Chamber of Commerce.
What the Chamber Does
The main goal of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce is to make the economy better for everyone in Kansas. This means helping businesses grow and protecting a fair system where companies can compete. They want to make Kansas the best state for businesses.
The Chamber works to speak for all kinds of businesses. This includes small, medium, and large companies from different industries. They try to build strong teams and work with others to help shape laws in Kansas. Their plans for new laws each year come from ideas shared by their members.
The Kansas Chamber also has important programs:
- The Kansas Retail Council helps stores and shops.
- The Kansas Manufacturing Council supports factories and producers.
- Leadership Kansas helps train future leaders.
They also have a group called the Chamber Political Action Committee. This group helps find and support people running for office who believe in free business and support the Chamber's goals.
Who Leads the Chamber?
The Kansas Chamber of Commerce has a Board of Directors. These are people from all over the state of Kansas. They come from different jobs and industries. Their job is to guide how the Chamber works every day.
