In the fall of 2004, research from Visioneering Wichita revealed the need for an action plan to address the future requirements for young intellectual capital in Wichita. Not only did members of the community confirm that an organization such as YPW was necessary, but the cold, hard facts revealed that it was vital to this community, the heartland and the region. In their studies, they found that if employees do not establish relations outside the work environment within 3-6 months, they are more likely to leave. Also, each young adult that is exported from Wichita costs $300,000 in lost investment.

Wichita Metro Chamber of Commerce staff realized the pressing need to proactively enter the fiercely competitive global market for young professionals. Young Professionals of Wichita was launched in June 2005, with a vision of making Wichita the Heartland's destination for young intellectual capital.