Northwest Missouri leaders to convene in Jefferson City for 2026 Great Northwest Day

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KQTV) -- Over 250 Northwest Missouri citizens, business leaders, educators and government officials are expected to be in Jefferson City from Feb. 3 to Feb. 4 for the 2026 Great Northwest Day.

The event is aimed at educating legislators on the region's critical issues and promoting the "Great Northwest".

"Great Northwest Day at the Capitol is a wonderful opportunity for leaders across our region to come together to speak as one voice on the important issues we see in our communities," said Joe Hegeman, the chair of Great Northwest Day. "We've learned over the many years of Great Northwest Day that this approach has proven to be very powerful."

The two-day event will include introductions on the House and Senate floors, followed by panel discussions on regional priority issues.

A reception on the first day will provide attendees with the opportunity to meet with legislators, staff and department dignitaries, and will feature the presentation of the Northwest Missouri Citizen of the Year award.

The Great Northwest Day Priorities Committee identified a few different topics, which remain a top priority for the region in 2026.

Expanding rural healthcare access, increasing childcare opportunities, investing in higher education, supporting K-12 education, expanding workforce housing and ensuring sustainable tax reform are high on the list of discussions for attendees.

Registration for the event is $80 if completed before Jan. 27. For more information on the event, visit www.greatnorthwestday.com.