NXTSTAGE Selects Three Kansas City Entrepreneurs to Accelerate Revenue Growth and Scalability
Building Innovation and Economic Growth in Kansas
In 2024, the NXTSTAGE Customer Traction Cohort, a program dedicated to fostering innovation and economic growth in Kansas, welcomed three dynamic startup founders from Kansas City: Joy Broils of Hustle & Ground, Mark Lukenbill of Mpruv Sports, and Crystal Webster of Sharing Solace. These entrepreneurs joined a cohort of 20 early-stage companies carefully selected for their potential to drive innovation and generate revenue.
NXTSTAGE: Empowering Kansas Startups
Launched in 2022 with the support of a Build-to-Scale grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the NXTSTAGE program aims to empower early-stage Kansas companies by helping them overcome barriers to revenue generation and identifying scalable offerings. To date, the program has successfully graduated over 30 startups, contributing to the growth and success of Kansas’ entrepreneurial ecosystem.
2024 Cohort: A Diverse Array of Innovative Solutions
The 2024 cohort showcases a diverse range of innovative solutions, addressing various challenges and opportunities across healthcare, business operations, individual well-being, traditional services, sustainable apparel, and e-commerce. These startups represent the vibrant spirit of entrepreneurship in Kansas, and their inclusion in the NXTSTAGE program signifies their commitment to driving positive change and contributing to the state’s economy.
Program Benefits: Personalized Coaching and Community Support
Through the NXTSTAGE program, the selected cohort will benefit from a comprehensive range of support services designed to accelerate their growth and success. Participants will receive:
– In-depth, personalized 1:1 coaching from a national coaching partner, focusing on product-market fit and customer acquisition strategies.
– Engaging in-person workshops to cultivate new connections, establish a supportive community with fellow founders, and gain valuable insights.
– Ongoing professional pitch coaching and mentorship to enhance their communication and presentation skills.
Partnerships Driving Success
The NXTSTAGE program is made possible through the collaboration of several organizations committed to supporting entrepreneurship in Kansas. These include NetWork Kansas, the Greater Wichita Partnership, Capacity, the City of Wichita, Sedgwick County, and Wichita Shredding. Their combined efforts create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures innovation and drives economic growth throughout the state.
NXTSTAGE’s Impact on Kansas’ Economic Landscape
As the NXTSTAGE program enters its third year, Program Manager Amber Dunn expressed her enthusiasm for the positive impact these innovative companies will have on Kansas’ economic development. The diverse and dynamic group of entrepreneurs reflects the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in the state, and NXTSTAGE is honored to be a part of their continued growth and success.
The program’s focus on personalized coaching, community engagement, and professional development aims to equip these startups with the tools and resources they need to break through barriers, generate revenue, and scale their operations. By supporting these early-stage companies, NXTSTAGE contributes to the creation of jobs, economic growth, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kansas.
Call to Action: Join the NXTSTAGE Revolution
If you’re an early-stage entrepreneur in Kansas with a passion for innovation and a commitment to growth, we encourage you to apply for the NXTSTAGE Customer Traction Cohort. The program offers a unique opportunity to connect with experienced coaches, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs, gain access to valuable resources, and accelerate your startup’s success. Visit the NXTSTAGE website today to learn more and apply.
Together, we can build a brighter future for Kansas, driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic prosperity.