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Third Annual Ignite Rural Business Competition Set for This Thursday at the Crest Theatre

Monday, October 6

Tickets on Sale Now at www.igniteks.com and Available at the DoorGREAT BEND, Kan. — The entrepreneurial energy of Central Kansas will take center stage this Thursday at 7:00 PM as the third annual Ignite Rural Business Competition lights up the Crest Theatre in... Read More.

Great Bend Economic Development Announces Finalists for 2025 IGNITE Rural Business Competition

Wednesday, September 24

GREAT BEND, Kan. — Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. (GBED) is proud to announce the Top 5 Finalists for the 2025 IGNITE Rural Business Competition, a live pitch-style event designed to champion rural innovation and support emerging entrepreneurs across Barton County and surrounding areas.Now... Read More.

Last Call for Entrepreneurs: Apply by July 1 for the IGNITE Rural Business Competition

Tuesday, June 17

GREAT BEND, Kan. — The countdown is on for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners to apply for the IGNITE Rural Business Competition, with the application deadline fast approaching on July 1, 2025. This is your chance to turn your business dreams into reality... Read More.

Final Countdown: IGNITE Business Competition Deadline is July 1 – Apply Now!

Tuesday, May 20

GREAT BEND, Kan. — The race is on for entrepreneurs across Barton County and beyond to apply for the 2025 IGNITE Rural Business Competition before the rapidly approaching July 1st deadline. With $95,000 in prize money on the line, there’s never been a better... Read More.

IGNITE Rural Business 2025, Competition Now Open for Entries

Monday, November 25

By Lee Ann June, Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. GREAT BEND, Kan. — Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, it’s time to turn your innovative ideas into reality! The IGNITE 2025 Business Competition is officially open for entries, offering participants a chance to compete for... Read More.

IGNITE Rural Business Competition Grand Finale: A Night of Triumph and Celebration

Friday, October 11

By Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. GREAT BEND, Kan. — The stage was set, the anticipation palpable, and the excitement electric as the IGNITE Rural Business Competition Grand Finale returned for its second year on October 10th at the iconic Crest Theater in downtown Great Bend,... Read More.

The IGNITE Business Competition Finals: This Thursday Night in Great Bend

Monday, October 7

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 a share of $95,000 in prize money. The live finals... Read More.

Announcing the “Live 5” Finalists for the 2024 IGNITE Business Competition

Wednesday, September 25

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... Read More.

The Countdown to the IGNITE Rural Business Competition Live Finals Begins: October 10th at the Crest Theater

Monday, September 9

By Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. GREAT BEND, Kan. — The anticipation is building as the IGNITE Rural Business Competition reaches its peak. With the top 8 businesses currently engaged in a high-stakes semi-final round, presenting in-person pitches, the race to the finals has intensified.... Read More.

Announcing the Semi-Finalists of the 2024 IGNITE Rural Business Competition

Monday, August 5

By Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. GREAT BEND, Kan. — The 2024 IGNITE Rural Business Competition is excited to announce the semi-finalists who are advancing to the next stage of this year’s event. As the competition narrows the field in preparation for the live finals... Read More.

Great Bend Economic Development Receives Grant Funds from the Patterson Family Foundation for IGNITE Innovation Center Project

Monday, July 15

By the Great Bend Economic Development GREAT BEND, Kan. — Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is pleased to announce the receipt of $394,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation Thriving Rural Grant program. The grant funds will allow GBED to purchase equipment and furnishings for the... Read More.

Introducing the Wildcard Round for the IGNITE Rural Business Competition

Wednesday, July 3

By Great Bend Economic Development, Inc. GREAT BEND, Kan. — Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is excited to announce the addition of a dynamic Wildcard Round to the IGNITE Rural Business Competition. This new round is designed to provide a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs... Read More.