New core program offers practical tools, resources and connections for entrepreneurs
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Aug. 24, 2026 — StartUp Hutch is launching Avante, a new six-week entrepreneurship bootcamp designed to help aspiring and existing business owners build a strong foundation and move their businesses forward.
Avante will become a core entrepreneurship program offered by StartUp Hutch. The first cohort begins Monday, Sept. 21, with sessions held from 6–8 p.m. on Monday evenings. Registration is open now through Sept. 16.
Thanks to a sponsorship from Heartland Credit Union, the program is free for participants.
“Starting or growing a business can feel like there are a hundred things you need to figure out at once,” said Graham Klemme, executive director of StartUp Hutch. “Avante gives entrepreneurs a place to work through those questions, test their ideas and learn alongside other people who are building something, too. We’re excited to bring this program to Reno County and grateful to Heartland Credit Union for helping us make the first cohort available at no cost.”
Created by FoundersForge, a nonprofit entrepreneur center, Avante emphasizes learning by doing. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs test assumptions, better understand their customers and make informed decisions as they develop their businesses.
During the six-week program, participants will explore:
- Ideas and validation: determining whether a business solves a real problem and testing its potential.
- Customers: identifying target customers, understanding their needs and gathering useful feedback.
- Business planning: exploring business models, pricing and distribution while developing an Avante Business Model Canvas.
- Company and team: understanding business structures, incorporation, partnerships and building a team.
- Financials and funding: learning key financial concepts, projections and options for funding a business.
- Marketing: developing a brand and brand voice, telling a business’s story, exploring marketing channels and using AI marketing strategies.
The program is designed to serve entrepreneurs at different stages, from people exploring a business idea to existing business owners looking to strengthen their foundation and determine their next steps. In addition to the curriculum, Avante gives participants an opportunity to build relationships with other entrepreneurs and connect with the broader network of resources available through StartUp Hutch.
Registration is open at https://www.startuphutch.com/programs-and-grants.
