Ten Finalists Announced for $95,000 IGNITE Prize Competition
UPDATE: The Great Bend Economic Development has just unveiled the ten finalists competing for a share of $95,000 in the highly anticipated IGNITE Rural Business competition for 2025. This exciting event, now in its third year, is set to culminate in an electrifying live finale in October 2025, where these innovative startups will showcase their business plans and pitches to a panel of judges and a live audience.
The stakes are high, as one business will secure the grand prize of $50,000, with additional awards of $30,000, $10,000, and a $5,000 People’s Choice Award. This competition not only provides crucial funding but also grants participants access to invaluable mentorship and exposure, crucial for burgeoning entrepreneurs.
This year’s finalists include a diverse range of businesses that reflect creativity and community spirit. Here are the standout contenders:
1. **Freaking Delicious Cheesecake Co.** by Allie Cartwright – Specializing in gourmet cheesecakes, this business has been delighting customers for 2.5 years with a wide variety of flavors and sizes.
2. **Happy Girl Flower Shop** by CC Radenberg – A full-service floral shop in operation for 1.5 years, offering custom arrangements and unique gifts including flower preservation and resin art.
3. **The Fiesta Cart With Dani LLC** by Daniela Yazmin Garcia – This mobile dessert cart features unique mini pancakes with imaginative toppings and has expanded to include gluten-free options. Garcia emphasizes joy and culture in her offerings.
4. **Kansas CPR Training** by Dean Nuss – Offering essential CPR and first-aid training for four years, this business focuses on saving lives through education.
5. **Let’s Play Cafe** by Erica Valles – A vibrant space for children to explore and learn through play, paired with a relaxing café for parents. This innovative concept is designed for family engagement and fun.
6. **Tailored Financial Solutions** by Lance Taylor – Dedicated to delivering financial clarity through advanced bookkeeping and consulting services, they help businesses make informed decisions.
7. **Tankquility Aquarium** by Brad Fanshier – A local aquarium store specializing in both freshwater and saltwater fish, offering a comprehensive range of supplies.
8. **The Bin Wranglers** by Wrangler Walker – A residential waste management service that provides high-quality cleaning and can management solutions.
9. **Coach K9 Training** by April Steinert – This professional dog training academy focuses on building strong relationships between dogs and their owners, now expanding to include grooming services.
10. **Great Bend Play Place** by Billy and Kassandra Eldridge – An indoor play center aimed at providing a safe and engaging environment for children.
As excitement builds for the live finale, which promises to be a high-energy showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship, community members are encouraged to support their favorite businesses. The event not only highlights local talent but also plays a vital role in boosting the economic landscape of Great Bend.
Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the finale in October, where these finalists will have the chance to make their dreams a reality. The community’s support will be crucial in determining who takes home the coveted prizes!
