2026 Nonprofit Connect Awards Celebration

The Nonprofit Connect Awards Celebration isn't just an event—it's Kansas City's oldest, largest, and most prestigious tribute to nonprofit leadership and impact. For 42 years, this signature luncheon has been the stage where Nonprofit Connect shines a spotlight on those who make our community thrive. We have proudly honored over 350 extraordinary nonprofit leaders, organizations, and dedicated business partners whose contributions leave a lasting mark on Kansas City.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Each day, nonprofit organizations perform tremendous acts of service that make Kansas City a better place to work and live. By sponsoring the Awards Celebration, you not only advocate for these organizations, but allow Nonprofit Connect to provide resources to help them fulfill their mission. View the sponsorship levels below or CLICK HERE for a printable version. 

For questions regarding sponsorships for the 2026 Awards Celebration please contact events@npconnect.org.

Sponsorship Levels

Presenting Sponsor — $20,000 -SOLD OUT
Platinum Sponsor — $10,000
Gold Sponsor — $5,000
Silver Sponsor — $3,500
Bronze Sponsor — $2,500
Table of Eight — $1,000
Event Champion Ticket — $350
Individual Ticket — $120

Nominations for the 2026 Nonprofit Connect Awards Celebration

Nonprofit Connect is proud to celebrate the nonprofit professionals and organizations who perform tremendous acts of service in our community, as well as the individuals and entities who advocate for them. Honorees for the Awards Celebration are listed below.

2026 Awards Celebration Categories

• Persevering Advocate
• Equity in Action
• Nonprofit Catalyst
• Stronger Together
• Excellence in Impact

2026 Honorees

Equity in Action-Small Organization
Tiny Pantry Times - Represented by Jennifer Parker

Equity in Action-Large Organization
Cornerstones of Care - Represented by Merideth Rose and Jamie Stevens

Stronger Together
3DE by Junior Achievement of Greater KC Collaborative

Nonprofit Catalyst - Staff Member
Vince Bustamante - Life Unlimited
Natasha Bailey - Thelma's Kitchen
 
Nonprofit Catalyst - Executive
Tam Singer - Great Plains SPCA
Larry Lewis - Growing Futures Early Education

Excellence in Impact
Prep KC - Represented by Susan Wally
 
Persevering Advocate
Artists Helping the Homeless - Represented by Kar Woo

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