The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Network Kansas and Bourbon County eCommunity, is launching its new 2026 Business Builder Workshop Series, designed to provide practical, affordable education to help local businesses grow and thrive.
The first two one-hour workshops in the series will focus on digital marketing strategies that help small businesses increase visibility, attract customers, and work more efficiently.
The first session, “Stop Posting and Hoping: A Smarter Social Media Strategy for Small Businesses,” will be held Tuesday, March 10 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Room, 302 E. Wall Street. This session will provide practical guidance on building a focused, results-driven social media strategy rather than simply posting content without a plan.
The second workshop, “Google Business 101,” will take place Tuesday, March 31 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. This session will help businesses improve their visibility in local search results, strengthen customer trust, and better utilize their Google Business profile.
Both workshops will be presented by Sara Comer, owner of Gracefully Managed, who has worked with businesses throughout Southeast Kansas to improve their online presence and marketing effectiveness.
“These workshops are designed to give our members real tools they can immediately apply to their businesses,” said Lindsay Madison, Chamber President & CEO. “Whether you’re a retailer, restaurant, nonprofit, service provider, or attraction, these sessions are intended to help you grow smarter and stronger in 2026.”
Registration is $10 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. A discounted rate is available for those registering for both workshops. Seating is limited to allow for discussion and questions.
In addition, the Chamber encourages businesses and community leaders to save the date for Monday, April 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for a special Destination Creation Workshop at The River Room Event Center featuring nationally recognized speaker Jon Schallert, an expert in transforming businesses, attractions, and entire communities into destinations. This extended workshop will focus on strategies to attract visitors, increase spending, and position Fort Scott as a must-visit destination. Additional details and registration information will be released soon.
Businesses, organizations, and community members are encouraged to register for the workshops through the Chamber office or online via fortscott.com.
For more information or to register, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit fortscott.com.