Connect, Learn, and Grow with Southern Boone’s Business Community
The Southern Boone Economic Development Council’s annual Leaders Breakfast brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders for a morning of networking, insights, and inspiration. This spring tradition has become the premier business event in Southern Boone County—a chance to hear directly from regional economic development leaders and connect with the people driving growth in our community.
Save the Date Thursday, April 23, 2026
Doors Open: 7:00 AM | Breakfast: 7:30 AM
Optimist Club, 511 Optimist Drive, Ashland, MO
Why Attend?
You’ll start your day with:
- Strategic insights from Keynote Speaker
- Local updates from Southern Boone County R-I School District, City of Ashland, Boone County, and REDI leadership
- The EDDI Award presentation recognizing exceptional contributions to economic development in Southern Boone County
- Meaningful connections with fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders
- A great breakfast prepared by our local Optimist Club members
This is your opportunity to stay informed about the economic landscape, understand what’s coming next, and build relationships that matter for your business.
Event Agenda
The morning flows smoothly from networking to insights to recognition:
- 7 a.m. – Doors Open and Networking
- 7:30 a.m. – Breakfast Service
- 8 a.m. – Program
- KEYNOTE – GOVERNOR MIKE KEHOE
- UPDATES FROM SOUTHERN BOONE COUNTY LEADERS
- PRESENTATION OF THE EDDI AWARD
Register Now
Individual Tickets
$20 per person in advance by April 17 / $25 per person day of
Includes breakfast, program materials, and networking opportunities.
Registration deadline: April 23, 2026
2025 Event Sponsors
The Leaders Breakfast is made possible through the generous support of local businesses committed to economic development in Southern Boone County.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Leaders Breakfast is SBEDC’s primary annual fundraising event. Your sponsorship directly supports our work to attract businesses, connect resources, and strengthen Southern Boone County’s economic future.
All sponsorships are tax-deductible contributions supporting economic development initiatives in Southern Boone County.
Download Sponsorship InformationTo discuss sponsorship opportunities, contact:
Email: southernbooneedc@gmail.com
Mail: SBEDC, PO Box 33, Ashland, MO 65010
EDDI Award Recipients
Recognizing Impact and Leadership
Each year, the Southern Boone Economic Development Council presents the Economic Development Distinguished Impact (EDDI) Award to an individual or organization that has made a significant, positive impact on economic development and growth in Southern Boone County.
The SBEDC Board of Directors carefully selects recipients who exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit, community commitment, and long-term vision that strengthens our local economy. This recognition celebrates those who don’t just build successful businesses—they build a stronger Southern Boone County for everyone.
2025: Carl Freiling – REALTOR South County Realty
2024: C.L. Richardson Construction
Questions?
Contact the Southern Boone Economic Development Council
Email: southernbooneedc@gmail.com