Grandview Chamber of Commerce Earns Four Statewide Awards from CCEM
The Grandview Chamber of Commerce received four awards recognizing excellence in chamber communications, advocacy and workforce development during the 2026 Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri Fall Conference. The awards were presented October 22 at Margaritaville Lake Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks.
The Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri (CCEM) is the statewide professional association serving chamber of commerce professionals across Missouri. CCEM provides professional development, peer connections, resources and opportunities for chamber leaders to learn from one another and strengthen the organizations and communities they serve.
Grandview was recognized in four award categories:
Electronic Communication – “We’re in Bear Country, Grandview!”
This creative communication effort used personality, community identity and an engaging approach to strengthen the Chamber’s connection with its audience. The project reflected Grandview’s ability to make Chamber communications memorable while celebrating the community it represents.
Advertising Materials – Support Local Merchandise
Grandview transformed its support-local message into something residents and members could carry into the community. The merchandise campaign created another visible way to advocate for Grandview businesses and encourage local purchasing while building community pride.
Member & Community Communications – Advocacy Campaign for Convenience Store Owners
When local convenience store owners raised concerns about an employee liquor-permit requirement that was creating an additional barrier to hiring, the Chamber stepped forward as the voice of business. Grandview carried those concerns to local leaders and worked to advance a conversation around removing an unnecessary workforce obstacle for area employers.
Programs & Campaigns – NextGen Internship Program
The NextGen Internship Program connects area high school students with local businesses to strengthen Grandview’s future workforce pipeline. Created in partnership with Grandview and Hickman Mills school districts, the program combines career-readiness training, business matching and hands-on internships. Education foundation partnerships also provide funding for student stipends, helping make participation accessible for students while reducing barriers for employers. The pilot attracted interest from dozens of students and participation from more than a dozen businesses.
“The Grandview Chamber’s four awards reflect the breadth of what strong chamber leadership can look like,” said Crystal Narr, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri. “From creative communications and community advocacy to workforce development and support-local initiatives, Grandview continues to find meaningful ways to serve its members, strengthen partnerships and create long-term value for its community.”
“We are honored to be recognized for our team's dedication to the Grandview community. In our day-to-day work, it is easy to move quickly from one initiative, event, or advocacy effort to the next without pausing to see the bigger picture. Receiving these four awards allows us to step back, celebrate these achievements, and reflect on the meaningful, lasting impact we are building together.” Liz Ogle, President of the Grandview Chamber of Commerce