On Saturday, November 21, the NEJC Chamber presents The Annual Gala 2026— an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, awards, and entertainment at the Marriott Kansas City Overland Park. This annual event is a premier black-tie optional affair in Northeast Johnson County, welcoming over 350 business and community leaders from the greater metro area. The Annual Gala celebrates the many community successes and honors members whose significant contributions have furthered the Chamber’s vision to connect, build and grow Northeast Johnson County. All funds raised from this event support the continued efforts of the NEJC Chamber in local communities.
Timeline of Evening:
6 pm – Cocktails and Silent Auction Begins
7 pm – Business Awards Dinner
Dancing Followed!
Last Day to Book : Thursday, October 22, 2026
Tickets & Tables
Individual Tickets
- General seating at dinner and drink tickets
Half Table of 4
- Reserved ½ table & drink tickets for four
- Recognition in event materials to include multi-media and printed program
Table of 8
- Reserved table & drink tickets for eight
- Recognition in event materials to include multi-media and printed program
VIP Individual Tickets
- Entrance to private reception with passed hors d’oeuvres and champagne toast
- Reserved dinner seating and drink tickets
Half VIP Table of 4
- Reserved ½ table & drink tickets for four with private reception and VIP Reception access
- Recognition in event materials to include multi-media and printed program
VIP Table of 8
- Reserved table & drink tickets for eight with private reception and VIP Reception access
- Recognition in event materials to include multi-media and printed program
Auction Information
Part of the success of The Chamber will depend on the auction items donated by generous members. All proceeds benefit The Chamber’s mission of “Helping Businesses Grow and Communities Thrive” in Northeast Johnson County.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Celebrate business and community leaders in NEJC, while promoting your organization. Reserve your sponsorship today by contacting Deb Settle at 913-262-2141. To Download 2026 Sponsorship information, click here.
Presenting Sponsor
- Premier table & drink tickets for eight and VIP Lounge access
- Two weeks of banner advertising in weekly newsletter or event website page
- Prominent placement in marketing collateral to include email, website, and social media
- Prominent placement in event materials to include multi-media and printed program
- Recognition on screen during event program
VIP Sponsor
- Premier table & drink tickets for eight and VIP Lounge access
- Two weeks banner advertising in weekly newsletter or event website page
- Recognition on screen during event program
Silent Auction
- Prominent signage for the silent auction room
- Half table & drink tickets for four
Entertainment
- Opportunity to introduce the entertainment
- VIP table & drink tickets for eight with VIP Lounge access
- Two weeks banner advertising in weekly newsletter or event website page
Decor Sponsor
- Half VIP table & drink tickets for four with VIP Lounge access
- Two weeks banner advertising in weekly newsletter or event website page
Grand Entrance Sponsor
- Branded welcome signage in foyer
- Half VIP table & drink tickets for four with VIP Lounge access
Spirit Pull Sponsor
- Branded signage at spirit pull
- Branded tags on spirit bottles
- Two event and drink tickets
Cocktail Napkins
- Branded beverage napkins
- Two event and drink tickets
Bar Sponsor
- Branded signage at all bars
- Two event and drink tickets
Drink Ticket Sponsor
- Branded drink tickets for all attendees
- Two event and drink tickets
VIP Toast Sponsor
- Opportunity to give toast during VIP private reception
- Two VIP event & drink tickets
Volunteer Sponsor
- Sponsorship will cover all volunteer meals
- Branded signage at event
- Two event and drink tickets
Photo Op Sponsor
- Branded signage next to photo backdrop
Coat Check
- Signage at coat check
Sweet Treat Sponsor
- Opportunity to provide branded sweet treat to each attendee
Relief Sponsor
- Branded signage in restrooms
Red Carpet
- Recognition at event entrance
Checkout Sponsor
- Recognition at checkout table
Raffle Sponsor
- Signage at raffle location
- Opportunity to announce the winner of the raffle at the end of the program
Hydration Sponsor
- Recognition on water bottles
Business Awards
Each year, the NEJC Chamber is proud to recognize the successes and outstanding achievements of our members in four categories: Small Business, Corporate Business, Volunteer Service, and Nonprofit Organization. Nominations for The Annual Business Awards are accepted from Chamber members only. After the nominating period, up to four or five members in each category with the most nominations advance to a final ballot. One winner in each category is then determined by popular vote of Chamber members, patrons, and NEJC community members. Recipients are honored with these prestigious awards during a ceremony at The Annual Gala on November 21st.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nominees must be members in good standing of the NEJC Chamber.
- Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, business excellence, and support of the NEJC Chamber and the communities it serves.
- Nominees may be nominated in multiple categories
- Businesses, organizations, or individuals nominated in previous years who were not selected as recipients remain eligible for nomination.
- Self Nominations are not accepted
- Nominations must come from NEJC Chamber Members and may not be submitted anonymously
- Previous recipients are not eligible to receive the same award again within five (5) years of receiving the award. (see previous winners: nejcchamber.com/awards)
Nomination & Voting Period
Nominations are open July 13, 2026 and ends at 5pm on July 20, 2026. After the nominating period, 4-5 members in each category with the most nominations advance to a final ballot.
Nominate here: https://business.nejcchamber.com/nominations