From September 7–9, the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce led a dynamic delegation of local business and community leaders to Washington, D.C., for a high-impact policy advocacy trip aimed at advancing Topeka’s long-term strategic priorities. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening relationships with federal policymakers and positioning Topeka for future growth through targeted legislative and funding support.

The delegation met with members of the Kansas Congressional delegation and key federal agencies to discuss a range of initiatives critical to the region’s economic vitality and community development. These conversations centered on several core areas:

  • Riverfront Development: Topeka is uniquely positioned to transform one of its greatest natural assets into a driver of economic growth, cultural enrichment, and community pride. Building on the region’s thriving arts district in NOTO, a revitalizing downtown, and a strong workforce, the Topeka Riverfront Vision Plan outlines an ambitious path forward. Developed through Momentum 2027 and guided by the River Advisory Council (RAC), this initiative seeks to reconnect Topekans to the Kansas River and create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly district that serves as both a destination and a catalyst for development.

  • Aviation and Military Support: Topeka boasts a strong aviation and defense sector anchored by Forbes Field and the 190th Air Refueling Wing (ARW), one of only two Air National Guard units in Kansas. Nearly 3,000 active-duty men and women serve in Topeka, with close to 1,000 assigned to the 190th ARW. Their mission—flying the KC-135 Stratotanker—supports global aerial refueling operations critical to national security. To strengthen this sector and advance Topeka’s position as a hub for aviation and defense, the Chamber urges policymakers to invest in infrastructure, support strategic planning, and advocate for future missions such as the opportunity to host the next-generation KC-46A Pegasus refueling aircraft.

  • Innovation and Business Growth: Topeka is poised for a new era of innovation and entrepreneurial growth, and at the center of this momentum is Link Innovation Labs, a $15 million, 18,000-square-foot hub set to open in January 2026. Developed by GO Topeka, this space is designed to accelerate startups from concept to commercialization, providing the infrastructure, partnerships, and resources needed to compete on a global scale. We are advocated for Congressional Directed Spending in FY2027 to ensure the successful build-out and launch of the Link Innovation Center. Additionally, the Greater Topeka Partnership will be meeting with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to explore additional funding opportunities for Link Innovation Labs as part of the Kansas City Animal Health Corridor Tech Hub strategy.

  • Financial Services Sector: Topeka is a national hub for the financial services sector, employing more than 7,000 professionals across insurance, investment, banking, fintech, and wealth management. Industry leaders such as Advisor’s Excel, Security Benefit, Magellan, Gradient, and Xinnia anchor this ecosystem, joined by key institutions like Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka, Capitol Federal Savings Bank, CoreFirst Bank & Trust, Envista Credit Union, and a growing network of wealth advisory and financial technology firms. Together, these companies drive significant economic growth, attract capital, and provide high-wage careers. A recent study found that Advisor’s Excel and Security Benefit alone generate more than $1.4 billion annually in economic impact for Shawnee County, underscoring the sector’s critical role in fueling Topeka’s economic competitiveness and long-term vitality.

  • Small Business and Tariffs: The Greater Topeka Chamber joins the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in opposing broad-based tariffs, which harm economic growth by raising prices for consumers, exposing American businesses to retaliation, and creating uncertainty. Small businesses in Topeka are already feeling these effects firsthand. In D.C., small business owner Nick Xidis of Hazel Hill Chocolate share his experience of rising costs (more than 400%) due to complex supply chain issues. The Chamber strongly urges policymakers to pursue solutions that support fair trade, protect American competitiveness, and ease the burden on entrepreneurs working to grow their communities.

Throughout the trip, the Chamber’s delegation worked to lay the groundwork for future federal partnerships and funding opportunities. By aligning Topeka’s priorities with national policy agendas, the group aimed to ensure the city remains competitive and well-positioned for long-term success.

“This trip was about more than just meetings—it was about building momentum,” said a Chamber spokesperson. “We’re making sure Topeka’s voice is heard in Washington and that our community’s vision for the future is supported at the highest levels.”

The Greater Topeka Chamber’s advocacy efforts reflect a proactive approach to civic leadership, demonstrating how regional collaboration and strategic engagement can drive meaningful change. As the city continues to grow and evolve, these federal connections will be vital in turning bold ideas into reality.