Kearney Chamber of Commerce Launches 2025 Small Business Season

The Kearney Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the launch of its 2025 Small Business Season with Keep the Cheer Here, a community-wide initiative celebrating the local businesses that keep our economy thriving. Running November 1 through December 31, this year’s campaign carries the inspiring message: Every Purchase Has a Purpose.

“Every time you choose to shop or dine locally, you’re buying more than a product or service—you’re investing in dreams, jobs, and the uniqueness of our community,” said Stacie Bratcher, Executive Director of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce. “Small Business Season reminds us that local choices have a lasting impact. Together, we can help our neighbors and community thrive.”

By leveraging the Keep the Cheer Here campaign during Small Business Season residents are encouraged to explore hometown favorites, discover new local gems, and share their experiences to inspire others. From boutique shopping and dining at family-owned restaurants to attending festive community events, this initiative celebrates the people and places that make Kearney a vibrant and connected community.

“When you support local businesses, you’re helping fund our schools, youth programs, and community causes,” added Jewelee Cox, Chamber Board President and owner of Tobacco Barn Farm. “Local spending builds momentum—powering the people, places, and possibilities that define our town.”
Research shows that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to only $43 at a national chain—creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

To bring the season to life, the Kearney Enrichment Council will host A Magical Night on December 13th, from 6pm-9pm, with a lighted Christmas parade, Santa's arrival, and a special fireworks display to create unforgettable memories for families in the heart of downtown Kearney.

Throughout the campaign, you can also look forward to special themed days and events, such as Black Friday and Giving Tuesday, the Favorite Things Chamber Membership Luncheon (Dec. 3), and the Jingle & Mingle After Hours (Dec. 18), all designed to make supporting local both meaningful and rewarding.

Residents are encouraged to share their favorite finds and tag local businesses using #KeeptheCheerHere, #SmallBusinessSeason and #ShopLocalKearney.

“Small businesses give our community its personality and pride,” said Nic Vasquez, Chamber Board Vice President with Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial. “They’re where memories are made. This season, let’s give back to the people who give our town so much.”

For event listings, local promotions, and Small Business Season updates, visit www.kearneychamber.org or download the Visit Kearney Mobile App on Apple, Android, to get the latest updates on local businesses and community events.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

UMKC Offers Fraud Prevention, Cybersecurity Workshop

UMKC TalentLink presents “Fraud Prevention and Cybersecurity: Protect Your Business and Customers,” a workshop on May 8, 11 am-1:30 pm. Led by Focused Forensic Solutions President Krista Shelton and Lockbaud Founder Sam Sapp, the workshop includes proactive measures for small businesses to protect operations from fraud and cyber threats.

Workshop facilitators Krista Shelton and Sam Sapp

According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiner’s Report to the Nations, the average fraud case endures for 12 months and incurs a significant loss of $100,000 to the business.  “Fraud and cybersecurity are escalating concerns for small businesses,” says Shelton. “This trend underscores the pressing need for vigilance and proactive measures in safeguarding small enterprises against financial crimes.”

Fraud may encompass billing, payroll, expense reimbursement schemes, and identity theft. These deceitful practices can slip unnoticed into daily business operations.

“A basic understanding paired with simple, yet effective, fraud prevention measures can significantly enhance the security of small businesses and their clients,” says Shelton. “These initial steps not only offer a layer of protection but also instill a sense of confidence in your financial safety.”

Cybersecurity also threatens the livelihood of small businesses. “Small businesses are more often becoming the target for cybersecurity and fraudulent activities by bad actors. The reality is that businesses aren’t prepared, and they are more likely to succumb to easier tactics,” says Sapp.

The Identity Theft Resource Center’s 2023 Business Impact Report indicates that 73% of owners or leaders of small and medium-sized businesses shared they had experienced a data breach, a cyberattack, or both in the previous 12 months. 43% of organizations reported first-time attacks, impacting businesses in financial services, retail, hospitality, and other industries. 47% percent of businesses surveyed incurred a loss of $250,000 or less and 26% experienced financial impact between $250,000-500,000.

Fraud, phishing, and other costly illegal acts are increasing in frequency and complexity. Small businesses can take measures to be prepared. 

“It takes modern solutions to combat a modern threat, including a modern understanding of the threat,” says Sapp. “This presentation gets you up to speed on the modern tactics your office can prepare for to protect systems.”

Register for the workshop HERE.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.