February 2026 Alliance Newsletter

The Drive business pitch competition is back for 2026 — and this year, the timeline has been restructured into a six-month process, down from the previous 10 months. The change makes the competition more manageable for busy entrepreneurs while still delivering the hands-on guidance and support that define the program.

The Drive will once again award $10,000 in seed money to one Howard County startup or small business ready to take the next step in growth.

Level Up applicants and participants are strongly encouraged to apply, as The Drive offers an opportunity to build on that momentum with focused feedback, pitch development and capital support.

Applications are open now and due March 31, with the final live pitch event set for Oct. 15. Learn more and apply at greaterkokomo.com/thedrive.

Nearly 40 small business owners and entrepreneurs joined us at Inventrek for Canva 101: The Absolute Beginner’s Guide, part of our Linked to the Future series — an initiative designed to help small businesses gain the practical skills they need to succeed.

Led by the Alliance's manager of marketing and communications, Misty Knisely, this true beginner workshop walked participants through the basics of Canva, from choosing templates to creating and downloading professional graphics. Participants were given tools they can use immediately to strengthen their marketing efforts.

Linked to the Future continues to equip local businesses with hands-on, relevant training. When our small businesses grow more confident and capable, our entire community grows stronger.

Click here to learn more about the Linked to the Future series here

The Kokomo Strawberry Festival isn’t just about shortcake. It’s also home to Artsapalooza, our juried arts and fine craft marketplace featuring talented makers from across the region.

We’re currently seeking artists and artisans who create original, handcrafted work — from fine art and woodworking to ceramics, textiles, jewelry and more. Artsapalooza is intentionally curated to highlight quality, creativity and craftsmanship, making it a standout experience for both vendors and shoppers.

If you create it by hand and take pride in your craft, we’d love to see your application. Space is limited, and the show is juried to ensure a strong, diverse mix of work.

Apply now and be part of one of downtown Kokomo’s most anticipated summer traditions.

Click here to get started

Mark your calendars! A year of First Friday fun in downtown Kokomo kicks off on Friday, May 1 with an evening filled with art, shopping, dining and family-friendly fun. Details here

While you’re there, take a look at the full 2026 lineup and start planning your year downtown!

The Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau has helped secure another major collegiate championship for our community. Beginning in 2026, Kokomo High School’s softball stadium will serve as the home of the HCAC Softball Championship through 2028, expanding the Bureau’s successful partnership with the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference.

By hosting both the HCAC Baseball and Softball Championships, Kokomo will welcome student-athletes, coaches and fans from across the region — driving overnight stays, restaurant traffic and increased visibility for our community.

This continued investment in sports tourism strengthens our local economy and reinforces Kokomo’s growing reputation as a championship-caliber host city.

Read the full press release here

GREATER KOKOMO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Businesses, nonprofits make connections

More than 125 business leaders attended the Feb. 4 Business Matters Luncheon: Nonprofit Connections, where 27 local nonprofits showcased their missions, shared current needs, and explored opportunities for partnership.

Attendees enjoyed one-on-one conversations, visited nonprofit booths, and heard brief presentations highlighting ways businesses can give back and collaborate. Sponsored by NIPSCO, the luncheon provided a meaningful way to strengthen community ties and make a local impact.

The event underscored the power of collaboration between businesses and nonprofits — when leaders connect, our community thrives.

Couldn't make the event but still want to connect with a local nonprofit?

Click here to view the nonprofit guide from the event

Join us to celebrate this great small business!

4-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 Details here

The 2026 Chamber event calendar is in full swing, and a few key sponsorship opportunities are still available — but they’re going fast! Don’t miss your chance to elevate your business and connect with the community at standout events like:

• Bowling for Business: Network, compete, and have fun while making meaningful connections.

• WBC Women’s Leadership Conference: Showcase your support for women leaders and gain visibility among top professionals.

Explore the full calendar and secure your sponsorships today to start 2026 strong.

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

KOKOMO CONFERENCE CENTER

Construction continues on the Downtown Kokomo Conference Center, marking another major step forward in expanding our community’s capacity to host meetings, events and visitors.

This investment will strengthen downtown activity, support local businesses and position Kokomo for new opportunities in tourism and business attraction. We’re excited to see the progress taking shape. Visit the conference center website here

Join the Kokomo Conference Center team

The Kokomo Conference Center is now hiring for a variety of positions as it prepares to open in summer 2026. This is an opportunity to be part of a dynamic new venue hosting conferences, weddings, trade shows, and community events in downtown Kokomo.

Explore available positions and apply online at KokomoConferenceCenter.com/careers.

Connect with the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance inside Inventrek Technology Park, 700 E. Firmin St., Kokomo.

Downtown/Chamber: 765-457-5301

Inventrek Tech Park/Economic Development: 765-457-2000

Visitors Bureau: 765-457-6802

Lori Dukes

President & CEO

Courtney Butler

Chamber of Commerce

Caitlin Sheets

Economic Development

Sherry Matlock

Visitors Bureau

Misty Knisely

Marketing & Communications

Casie Braden

Downtown Manager

Brooke Harty

CVB Sales Manager

Jason Youngman

Facilities Manager