In the KNOW!

 

February 23, 2026

 

The Calendar Is Filling Up. That’s a Good Thing.



If you’ve looked at the events calendar on our website lately, you’ve probably noticed something. It’s getting busy.

Between before-hours and after-hours networking events, ribbon cuttings, grand openings, legislative conversations, young professional meetups, and leadership programming, there’s something happening almost every week. And that’s not by accident.

Momentum in a business community shows up on the calendar first.

Every ribbon-cutting represents someone taking a risk and investing here. Every grand opening is a sign that confidence in our market is strong. Every networking event is an opportunity for collaboration that wouldn’t happen otherwise.

But here’s the part that matters most: these events only create value if you show up.

You never know who you might meet at a Social Exchange or a ribbon-cutting. It might be a future customer. A referral partner. A supplier. A mentor. A young professional looking for their next opportunity. Or someone who simply needs what you offer.

Relationships still drive business. And in a local economy like ours, connection is a competitive advantage.

So here’s a simple challenge: Pick one event on the calendar you wouldn’t normally attend and show up. Introduce yourself to three people you haven’t met. Follow up with one of them the next week.

That’s how growth happens. Not in isolation, but in conversation.

We’re proud to see so many businesses investing in this community. Now let’s keep building those connections that move us forward.

I’ll see you at the next event.


-Daniel

Director, Chamber of Commerce

 
 

It’s Here. The Forum Starts Tomorrow.



Rural leaders from across the country are arriving in Shawnee as the Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum kicks off tomorrow, February 24–25.

The energy is real, and we are ready to host an important conversation about the future of Rural America.

Over the next two days, nationally recognized experts, experienced practitioners, and community leaders will dig into practical strategies for economic development, downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, workforce growth, tourism, childcare solutions, regional collaboration, and the smart use of technology and AI tools to strengthen rural communities.

We are looking forward to hearing from Doug Griffiths, Steve Brown, Lorie Vincent, Jon Schallert, Sherri Johnston, and other leaders who are bringing real-world case studies and ideas that can be put into action right away.

Rural communities move forward when we learn from one another and work together. If you are registered, we look forward to seeing you. If you have been considering it, there is still time to be part of the conversation.

 

UPCOMING SHAWNEE FORWARD EVENTS

Pottawatomie County Young Professionals Tuesday, March 3.


Join Pottawatomie County Young Professionals for a hands-on volunteer opportunity with Community Market from 11-1, where we’ll spend time supporting an organization that plays an important role in serving our neighbors. This is a chance to make a real impact while spending time with other young professionals who care about this community.

Expect a fun, upbeat atmosphere, plenty of teamwork, and meaningful connections. Whether you’ve volunteered before or this is your first time, you’ll leave knowing you helped make a difference and probably met a few new people along the way.

This event combines community service with connection, and it’s one of the ways PCYP puts purpose behind our networking. Come ready to help, laugh a little, and be part of something that matters.

Whether you're just starting your career or already making big moves, this is your space to connect, collaborate, and grow 


Next Before Hours | March 5th 8-9:30 AM


Your network grows when you show up. Social Exchange gives you two chances each month to connect with fellow Chamber members, share what you do, and build relationships that actually matter.

To make networking easier to fit into your schedule, we offer both before-hours and after-hours Social Exchange options each month, so you can choose the time that works best for you.

Join us on March 5th for our next before-hours Social Exchange from 8:00–9:30 AM at Work Ready Shawnee. It’s free for members, and you’ll leave with new contacts and fresh energy.

 

RIBBON CUTTINGS

 

Celebrate Our Growing Business Community!

Join us as we welcome new businesses and celebrate local growth at our upcoming ribbon cuttings. These events are a great way to connect, show support, and help new members feel the strength of the Chamber community.

Bring a coworker, meet fellow members, and be part of the excitement as we cut the ribbon on new investments and opportunities in Shawnee. We’d love to see you there!


Please join us in welcoming our newest Shawnee Forward Chamber members. Click their logo to learn more about their business or organization and find opportunities to connect and support them in our community.

To learn more about all of our members, visit the Membership Directory on our website or click the button below.

 

BUSINESS RESOURCES

 

Everything You Need to Know to Handle Customer Complaints and Build a Loyal Fanbase


Turn mistakes into opportunities by using de-escalation techniques and resolution-tracking tools. Take these steps to effectively manage customer grievances.

MEMBER EVENTS

Click on each image to learn more.

We Care.aoke 2026: The CRMA Awards

Join Community Renewal for an evening of dinner, drinks, Singo, karaoke, and good company all while supporting Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County


Date: Friday, March 7, 2026

Time: Starts at 6:00 PM 

Location: Grand Event Center - 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, OK 74804

Attire: Cocktail / CRMA Awards Glam (optional—but encouraged! Think your favorite MTV VMA looks.)

Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?

If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!



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