Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is taking significant steps to advance the Ignite Innovation Center, despite recent construction delays. The project, which aims to foster entrepreneurship and community support, was put on hold in November 2023 due to funding gaps. However, GBED’s new executive director, Jason Kuilan, remains optimistic about securing the necessary financial support to resume construction this year.
During a meeting with members of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Kuilan emphasized the project’s potential positive impact on the community. “This project is going to be a positive impact for the city,” he stated at the event held at Dry Lake Brewing. He plans to host another session open to the public on February 11, 2024, from 17:00 to 19:00, at the same location.
Kuilan reflected on the success of the Bright Beginnings childcare center, which GBED developed with support from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. He noted that the center reached full capacity within a year, prompting plans for an additional facility in Claflin. “We’re doing great things in the childcare space,” Kuilan remarked, underscoring the importance of childcare services amid ongoing national debates on the subject.
In late 2023, the Kansas Children’s Cabinet Trust Fund invited GBED to apply for federal funds aimed at community development in the post-COVID landscape. The fund is set to support the construction of ten community centers throughout the state. Great Bend’s planned center, termed an innovation center, will focus on entrepreneurship and community engagement. GBED secured $4.3 million for the project, recognizing the necessity of raising a total of $7 million to complete it.
Kuilan explained the strategic approach GBED is taking to bridge the funding gap, which initially stood at approximately $1.6 million to $2 million. He noted, “The alternative is we give up that $4.3 million and it’s going to another community in Kansas.” This funding is expected to yield a substantial return on investment for Great Bend.
The Ignite Innovation Center is envisioned as a multifaceted facility built on four key pillars: childcare, healthcare, education, and workforce development.
Childcare and Community Health Initiatives
The childcare component aims to provide not only traditional daycare services but also after-hours care. Kuilan stated, “Not just a regular childcare center, but one that could offer after-hours care.” In addition, the center will serve as a hub for health initiatives, facilitating community health education and access to services. GBED will not act as a healthcare provider but will collaborate with local health organizations to offer programs that address community needs, such as blood drives, health screenings, and diabetes education.
Educational and Workforce Development Programs
Education at the Ignite Center will encompass various programming options, including after-school and summer educational activities, as well as adult education initiatives in areas like coding and computer literacy. GBED is partnering with organizations to provide training in topics such as cyber-security and fraud protection for seniors.
Workforce development is another critical focus area. Kuilan highlighted the role of Barton Community College as a significant partner in this effort. He addressed inquiries regarding the overlap with the college’s existing programs, explaining, “I think that we are an adjacent organization that’s going to elevate what they’re able to offer for the whole community outside of their student population.”
As GBED works to finalize plans for the Ignite Innovation Center, Kuilan remains committed to fostering a collaborative environment where local businesses and organizations can thrive. The center is positioned to play a pivotal role in enhancing community resources and driving economic growth in Great Bend.
