Resources
Tools and guides for user group organizers, speakers, and community builders in Kansas City.
Starting a User Group
How to Start a Meetup Group →
Meetup.com's official guide to launching a new group — covers everything from finding your first members to planning your first event.
Code of Conduct Template →
The Contributor Covenant — widely adopted code of conduct template for tech communities. Adapt it for your group.
Finding Sponsors for Your Group →
Practical advice on approaching local companies for venue and food sponsorships for your user group.
For Speakers
Sessionize — Speaker Profile Platform →
Create a free speaker profile with your bio, talks, and session history. Many KC conferences use Sessionize for their CFP process.
Notist — Speaker Portfolio →
Share your slides and build a public speaker portfolio. Great for user group talks.
Speaking.io — Tips for Tech Speakers →
Zach Holman's guide to public speaking for developers — from writing your abstract to delivering on stage.
Running Better Meetings
OBS Studio (Free Streaming) →
Free, open source tool for recording and live streaming your meetup sessions to YouTube or Twitch.
Zoom Webinar vs Meeting →
Understanding the difference between Zoom meetings and webinars for hybrid user group formats.
Streamyard (Easy Streaming) →
Browser-based streaming tool that's easier than OBS. Free tier available for simple streams.
Community Platforms
Meetup.com →
The dominant platform for local tech group discovery and RSVP management. Paid for organizers.
Luma →
A modern, free alternative to Meetup with great event pages and email tools. Growing in the tech community.
Discord for Communities →
Set up a Discord server for your user group — free, great for async discussion and announcements.
New to the KC tech scene?
Welcome! The best way to get connected is to show up to a few user group meetings. Most are free, friendly, and happen monthly. Start with groups that cover your technology stack — then branch out from there.
Browse all groups →