HUTCHINSON, Kan. — March 30, 2026 — StartUp Hutch has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation’s Fund for Reno County to support its Rural Business Resilience & Expansion Microgrant Initiative in rural Reno County.
Funding will help support the initiative through coaching, facilitated community conversations, and six targeted microgrants designed to help existing small businesses expand, activate underutilized properties, and fill high-need industry gaps in rural Reno County communities.
Through a competitive application process, at least six microgrants of up to $2,500 each will be awarded to eligible small businesses. Eligibility guidelines and application details will be released in late spring.
The initiative is designed to provide practical, accessible support to rural businesses while also helping communities identify service gaps and opportunities for growth. By combining direct funding with coaching and local engagement, the program aims to strengthen existing businesses and support long-term community resilience.
“We are excited to bring this opportunity to rural Reno County communities and the small businesses that help them thrive,” said Graham Klemme, Executive Director of StartUp Hutch. “This initiative is about supporting local businesses in ways that strengthen essential services, encourage expansion, and create new momentum in communities across the county. We’re grateful to the Hutchinson Community Foundation and the Fund for Reno County for making this work possible.”
For more information and how to get involved, visit contact Graham Klemme at [email protected]or at 620-665-3319.
