Wichita’s entrepreneurial spirit is thriving, thanks to a variety of resources and programs designed to support local businesses and startups. These initiatives provide essential funding, mentorship, and educational opportunities, fostering economic growth and innovation within the community.
Center for Entrepreneurship at Wichita State University
The Center for Entrepreneurship at Wichita State University plays a pivotal role in nurturing business ideas from inception to growth. It offers programs like the Ignitor accelerator, which provides structured support for community innovators and entrepreneurs in the ideation pre-seed phase. Additionally, the Shocker New Venture Competition gives students the opportunity to win venture funding and receive valuable feedback from industry experts. The Center also offers funding opportunities such as the Moral Family Fund for Innovation, aiding students in advancing their innovative ideas. Learn more about the Center for Entrepreneurship.
NXTUS: Connecting Entrepreneurs with Resources
NXTUS is a nonprofit innovation organization based in Wichita that focuses on connecting entrepreneurs to mentors, capital resources, customers, and community partners. Through programs like the NXTSTAGE competitions and the Customer Traction Cohort, NXTUS provides customized coaching and support tailored to founder needs without taking equity. These initiatives help early-stage companies refine their go-to-market strategies and attract investment. Discover how to get involved with NXTUS.
Camp Destination Innovation: Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs
Camp Destination Innovation offers programs designed to expose marginalized youth aged 14-18 to careers outside of traditional norms, with a focus on entrepreneurship. Their initiatives include a spring Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, a four-week summer camp, and the Kansas Youth Virtual Entrepreneurship Challenge. Beyond these programs, Camp DI provides year-round mentorship to reinforce the message that Wichita is invested in its young talent. Learn more about Camp Destination Innovation.
PROPEL Small Business Loan Fund
The City of Wichita’s PROPEL (Providing Resources & Opportunities for Proprietors, Entrepreneurs, and Lenders) Small Business Loan Fund is a low-interest, short-term revolving loan program. It offers loans up to $20,000 to businesses that have the ability to repay but may not qualify for traditional financing. The program aims to encourage business ownership and self-employment as a means of economic self-sufficiency for low- and moderate-income individuals. Find out more about the PROPEL Loan.
Create Capital Fund
The Create Capital Fund offers a new approach to business lending by providing short-term microloans ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 to qualified business owners who may not otherwise qualify for traditional lending. The fund also partners with financial institutions and Network Kansas on gap-financing and matching financing for applications up to $100,000. These funds can be used to purchase inventory, equipment, materials, and other supplies necessary for business growth. Explore the Create Capital Fund.
These resources and programs exemplify Wichita’s commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing access to capital, mentorship, and educational opportunities, they empower local entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into thriving businesses, contributing to the city’s economic vitality.