By Great Bend Economic Development, Inc.
GREAT BEND, Kan. – The stage is set for the 2024 IGNITE Business Competition, and the top five finalists, known as the “Live 5,” are ready to compete for $95,000 in prize money. The live finals will take place on October 10th at the Crest Theater in downtown Great Bend, and tickets are on sale now!
Meet the “Live 5”:
- First Response Cleaning and Restoration
Owners: Austin, Tallan, and Theresa Smith
This family-run business offers professional cleaning and restoration services across rural Kansas, prioritizing health and safety with a deep clean that’s safe for families and pets alike. - Proper Boards & Picnics
Owner: Paxton Rein
Providing high-quality, aesthetically pleasing charcuterie boards, grazing tables, and pairing classes, Proper Boards & Picnics brings unique food experiences to Barton County and beyond. - Rana Luna
Owner: Ana Hayson
Rana Luna specializes in party décor and personalized gifts that help customers express emotions and sentiments for every occasion, from birthdays to weddings. Their commitment to customer connection ensures every creation sparks joy. - Ruhe Rituals
Owner: Danielle Hunter
A holistic wellness brand offering mindful beauty rituals, skincare tips, and self-care products that invite customers into a community of rejuvenation and personal growth. - Sundown AgriSupply LLC
Owner: Matthew Gerritzen
Aiming to assist farmers in transitioning to regenerative agriculture, Sundown AgriSupply provides research-backed products designed to improve sustainability and farm efficiency.
The finalists will present live to a panel of judges, with awards including $50,000 for first place, $30,000 for second, and $10,000 for third. Additionally, a People’s Choice Award will be determined by text voting, awarding $5,000 to the crowd’s favorite. People’s choice voting opens at 6:30 pm on Oct. 10th.
Event Details:
Date: October 10, 2024
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Showtime: 7:00 PM
Location: Crest Theater, 1905 Lakin Ave., Great Bend, KS
Tickets:
- $20 in advance, available now at igniteks.com
- $25 at the door (cash only)
Can’t attend in person? A live stream will be available on igniteks.com so you won’t miss any of the excitement!
Don’t wait—purchase your tickets today at igniteks.com and be part of the action as these innovative entrepreneurs vie for a life-changing opportunity.
For more information, visit igniteks.com or contact us at [email protected] or 620-796-2407.
About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development):
Our goal is to sustain Barton County’s long-term economic health and vitality through the retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses and development that enhance property values, increase personal income, and positively contribute to the citizens’ quality of life of Barton County.
Great Bend Economic Development leads the charge in creating workforce initiatives to sustain our current employers as well as initiatives that will help to support new employers that move to the community. Employers and jobseekers are encouraged to reach out to GBED with questions and concerns and GBED will either pair you up with a workforce partner to help you accomplish your goals, or work with you one-on-one to create solutions and positive outcomes. Together we will create a strong and sustainable workforce pipeline that will enable us to continue to grow Barton County.
For more information about GBED visit: www.gbedinc.com, call 620-796-2407, or email [email protected].
About IGNITE:
IGNITE Rural Business Competition is a dynamic platform aimed at empowering entrepreneurs in Barton County. The competition encourages creativity, innovation, and community engagement, offering valuable grants to deserving businesses to fuel their growth and success. For more information, visit igniteks.com.