A significant $750,000 investment from the FORGE grant is poised to revolutionize the economic landscape of Emporia, Lyon County, and the neighboring regions.
This strategic collaboration between Emporia State University (ESU) and Emporia Main Street, backed by the Kansas Department of Commerce, is set to foster business innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth for the community.
A Collaborative Vision for Economic Growth
“This partnership highlights our capacity for innovation and collaboration,” remarked Emporia Mayor Erren Harter. “The FORGE grant is a game-changing initiative for our community, offering fresh avenues for businesses, entrepreneurs, and the university to collaborate for growth.
Together, Emporia State University and Emporia Main Street are demonstrating their dedication to establishing a robust and diverse economy that benefits not only Lyon County but the broader region. It’s an exciting moment for Emporia.”
The Forging Opportunities for Research, Growth, and Entrepreneurship (FORGE) program pools $375,000 from the Kansas Department of Commerce with an equal match from Emporia State University, creating a total investment of $750,000. This program is specifically designed to enable Kansas universities and local businesses to innovate and generate new economic activities.
Core Focus Areas of the FORGE Grant
The three-year project is dedicated to advancing the following initiatives:
- Providing Businesses Access to Technology
Empowering businesses and entrepreneurs by enhancing their access to cutting-edge technology. - Fostering Strategic Partnerships
Establishing collaborations that allow small and regional businesses to explore opportunities that might otherwise be unattainable. - Leveraging the Expertise of Hornet Nation
Utilizing the skills and network of Emporia State University alumni to support the establishment, expansion, and recruitment of businesses in the region.
Empowering Regional Business Development
“Emporia State University boasts an extensive network of alumni whose expertise can position the university as a leader in business growth and economic diversification,” explained Cory Falldine, ESU’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
“Our commitment to driving the regional economy motivated us to pursue this grant. It’s an investment directly impacting our local businesses and economy. We’re grateful to the Kansas Department of Commerce for recognizing this potential and to Emporia Main Street for their forward-thinking approach in partnering with us.”
Casey Woods, Executive Director of Emporia Main Street, emphasized the importance of diversifying the business community. “Emporia is central to the I-35 economic corridor, perfectly situated between Kansas City and Wichita—the two largest economies in the state,” Woods stated.
Next Steps for the FORGE Initiative
Emporia State University and Emporia Main Street have outlined key actions to maximize the grant’s impact:
1. Regional Entrepreneurship Support
- Develop a “one-stop shop” for entrepreneurship, creating resources that support job growth, increase household incomes, and diversify the economy.
2. Enhanced Entrepreneurial Support
- Launch business incubation programs, “reverse pitch” events, and microgrant opportunities.
- Provide cohort-based educational activities to foster entrepreneurial success.
3. Monetizing Regional Experiences
- Identify and develop business opportunities that capitalize on regional expertise and local experiences.
4. Cooperative Resource Integration
- Facilitate collaboration between ESU, Emporia Main Street, and broader Kansas business networks.
- Dedicate staff to support entrepreneurial development and regional growth.
5. Upgrading the Fabrication Lab
- Add state-of-the-art equipment to the Emporia Main Street Fabrication Lab, enabling Emporia State University and Flint Hills Technical College students, as well as regional entrepreneurs, to develop skills and secure future-focused jobs.
Impact on the Regional Economy
The partnership between Emporia State University and Emporia Main Street aims to elevate the local business environment while retaining the region’s most talented individuals. By enhancing resources, fostering innovation, and encouraging collaboration, the FORGE initiative sets the stage for sustainable economic growth.
Key Components of the FORGE Grant Initiative
| Focus Area | Objective |
|---|---|
| Access to Technology | Empower businesses with innovative tools to remain competitive. |
| Strategic Partnerships | Facilitate collaboration for regional business opportunities. |
| Leveraging Alumni Expertise | Utilize alumni skills to foster entrepreneurship and economic diversification. |
| Regional Entrepreneurship Support | Create a hub for resources that drive local and regional job creation. |
| Fabrication Lab Enhancements | Equip the lab with modern tools for student and entrepreneur use. |
The FORGE grant represents a monumental step forward for the economic future of Emporia, Lyon County, and the surrounding areas. By combining innovation, strategic collaboration, and community-focused initiatives, this partnership sets the foundation for a thriving and resilient local economy.
With efforts centered on empowering businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and leveraging regional expertise, the program is bound to unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable growth for years to come.
