270 Businesses Join Chamber During Three-Day Event

We're pleased to share that a three-day membership event has brought 270 new members to your Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce! Chamber Chairman Michael Monteferrante of Envision and Chamber Vice Chair of Membership Greg Klenda of Klenda Austerman led the effort. Similar membership events were held in 2013 when the Chamber gained 185 new members and in 2015 when 226 new members joined the organization. A 2017 campaign netted 245 new members.

Monteferrante attributed the record-breaking campaign to the more than 300 passionate volunteers and staff who recruited area organizations to help improve the business environment. “I’m filled with gratitude for all the time our volunteers put into this effort. Nearly 80% of our volunteers had never worked this type of event before, but they were all in. The engagement of those volunteers combined with the energy of our new members has strengthened our voice and presence in the region. We’re thrilled to welcome their new ideas, resources and input. Our larger and more diverse membership base will energize the Chamber and the business community.” 

Klenda acknowledged that having fifteen Chairpersons and fifty team captains representing a variety of industries helped the Chamber achieve the new membership drive record. “Area leaders from banking, architecture, transportation, insurance, healthcare, food services and lodging worked together and reached out to their suppliers, partners and business associates. It was a cross-generational event with Millennial volunteers working right next to Baby Boomers. It was inspiring to see the way everyone pulled together to make our community stronger.”

The three teams who recruited the most new members were:

• Team Royal Blue, led by Michael Monteferrante of Envision
• Team Camo, led by Adam Pogue of Spirit AeroSystems
• Team White, led by Jennifer Ray of The Monarch
  
  

With the addition of 270 new members, the Chamber’s 2019 membership base is 1,817. The membership-based organization does not seek or receive any local, state or federal tax dollars and is not subsidized by government entities. The Chamber relies on membership dues and sponsorships to fund the organization. Those interested in joining the organization should contact Kresta Dundas at 316-268-1115.

Visit us on Facebook to see photos from the Membership Event, and check out the Membership Directory to see our new business members.