Entrepreneur Businesses & Organizations in Kansas

Since its founding in 1989, Commercial Real Estate Women Network has been transforming the commercial real estate industry by championing the advancement of women globally. Headquartered in Lawrence, Kansas, CREW Network operates as a united community of professionals bound by a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering meaningful business relationships. The organization's mission centers on accelerating success for all women in commercial real estate through an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and collaborative growth. CREW Network serves approximately 15,000 members across 85 major markets worldwide, providing essential support through business networking, leadership development, industry research, and career advancement opportunities. The organization believes that diverse voices enrich business connections and drive meaningful innovation throughout the commercial real estate sector. By bringing together women from all aspects of commercial real estate—including agencies, investment, development, and related fields—CREW Network creates an environment where professionals can exchange knowledge, build lasting relationships, and support one another's career progression. The Lawrence, KS-based network remains dedicated to strengthening and expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives throughout its global organization, ensuring that women at every level of the commercial real estate industry have access to the connections, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive professionally.

Founded on September 22, 1949, in a Kansas City coffee shop by visionary leaders Shirley Cupp, Irma Beisel, Frances Stuckey, and Hilary Bufton Jr., the American Business Women's Association has a remarkable legacy of challenging societal norms and empowering women in business. Operating from Overland Park, Kansas, ABWA emerged during an era when women pursuing full-time careers or joining professional associations faced significant social resistance. The organization's founders understood that women needed a supportive community to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally, establishing a mission that remains central to ABWA's work today. For over 75 years, ABWA has been breaking barriers on behalf of women, creating safe spaces for female professionals to connect, learn, and advance together. The organization brings together businesswomen from diverse occupations and backgrounds, fostering relationships that transcend industry boundaries. Through local chapters in hundreds of cities across the nation, ABWA members find mentorship, friendship, and professional support from women who understand their unique challenges and aspirations. The association's commitment extends beyond individual members to broader community impact through partnerships with organizations like the American Cities Business Journal and participation in initiatives such as Small Business Saturday. ABWA's Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund provides scholarships recognizing women's contributions to their communities. Today, ABWA continues its founding mission of changing women's lives one woman at a time, serving as a beacon of support and opportunity for working women and entrepreneurs in Overland Park and communities nationwide.