Connecting social entrepreneurs, Conquer for Good launches event series

To spur the creation of socially-conscious enterprises in Kansas City, brand strategy firm Will & Grail announced Thursday the launch of Conquer for Good: Connect, an event series.

Following up on the conversation from the Conquer for Good conference in March, the monthly event series will feature talks from Kansas City business leaders who lead purpose-driven companies.

CEO of Will & Grail Mark O’Renick said that the Conquer for Good conference’s inaugural event was a success, adding that the conference will return in 2018. The event featured speakers from firms such as Charlie Hustle, Water.org, the Arnold Development Group and more.

“The March event validated the desire for conversation, collaboration and community building focused on social innovation and purpose-driven business,” O’Renick said. “Based on the incredible response to the first event, we saw a need for smaller, more frequent interactions — which is what the Connect series will provide.”

O’Renick said that the Conquer for Good: Connect series aims to strengthen the community of social entrepreneurs in Kansas City, creating a positive impact for the metro.

“The community response has been amazing,” O’Renick said “We’re really thankful for the people who stepped forward to help. People are willing to help promote the event and connect us with organizations that are changing how we view the role of business in the world, how we solve social problems, and balance money and meaning in our lives.

He said that Conquer for Good, an initiative of Will & Grail, is currently forming a steering committee that will help the movement evolve to better support Kansas City. O’Renick added that he plans to take the conference to other cities in the future.

“If we do this right, we’re confident we can have a profound, positive impact on lives, communities and the world,” O’Renick said.  “And that’s work that matters.”

The Connect series kicks off Aug. 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Will & Grail’s offices at 1810 Cherry in the Crossroads Arts District.

Here is the full schedule of speakers:

• The Call KC, Brent Lager — Aug. 8, 5:30 p.m.
• By Grace Designs, Emily Moon — Sept. 12, 5:30 p.m.
• Community Services League, Doug Cowan — Oct. 10, 5:30 p.m.