Come to the Youth Entrepreneur Trade Show
February 24, 2026
The annual trade show and competition are open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Each year, the Montgomery County Youth Entrepreneur Challenge brings together young innovators to pitch business concepts, showcase ideas, and build confidence.
Prize awards include:
- 1st place: $1,000
- 2nd place: $750
- 3rd place: $500
- 4th place: $250
Products and services will be available for purchase at the trade show.
Details: https://ibrcenter.org/YEC
Other News
Special Intro Offer — Join Now & Save!
Become a member of Life Skills Academy and Maker Space before February 28 and receive 20–25% off your membership—whether for personal use or business support. This is a great opportunity to access tools, space, and a supportive community that helps turn ideas into reality.
Learn more about membership categories and pricing & join here:
https://ibrcenter.org/Join-Life-Skills-Academy-Maker-Space
Equipment & Possibilities
Our Maker Space is equipped with professional-grade technology to support makers, creators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. From 3D printing and laser engraving/cutting to wide-format printing and sewing, our tools support prototyping, production, and creative exploration. These resources help entrepreneurs promote and grow their businesses.
See what you can do:
https://ibrcenter.org/LSA-Equipment
Print Capabilities Spotlight — Our Print Shop Is Open
We’ve made high-quality printing tools available to members and the public—equipment that is uncommon in our region and powerful for marketing, business needs, and creative expression. Members may print their own work, or, if preferred, a team of guided young entrepreneurs can manage the process from quoting to production and delivery.
54-Inch Wide-Format Printer with Cutter
- Large posters, banners, and signage
- Decals, stickers, and product labels
- Full-color marketing graphics
- Custom shapes and contour-cut designs
- Short-run and test-run branding materials
- Event and pop-up support
- Professional visuals without large print orders
Digital Press with Cutter
- High-quality marketing collateral
- Flyers, brochures, and presentation materials
- Manuals, workbooks, and training handouts
- Professional proposal documents
- Personalized variable-data printing
- Fast turnaround with no minimums
- Affordable print solutions for local businesses
Our equipment can also print mailing addresses directly on printed pieces—no more dealing with address labels.
$2M Gap Financing Milestone
Since 2013, the Innovative Business Resource Center has helped local businesses bridge financial gaps through gap-financing loans, working alongside banks and conventional lenders. To date, more than $2 million in funding has supported area business start-ups and expansions at favorable interest rates. If your business needs capital to grow, we can help.
Learn more:
https://ibrcenter.org/E-Community-Gap-Financing
Donations Are Tax Deductible
The Life Skills Academy, operating as part of the Innovative Business Resource Center, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Contributions supporting our programs—including the Maker Space, entrepreneurship events, learning programs, and community initiatives—are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Give today:
https://ibrcenter.org/Donate/
2026 Tax Credits for Donors
Beginning January 1, 2026, we will once again offer 75% Kansas Entrepreneurship Tax Credits on donations for the 2026 tax year. This powerful incentive allows you to direct a portion of your state tax liability to directly support entrepreneurial programs in our community.
Find details and plan ahead:
https://ibrcenter.org/Entrepreneurship-Tax-Credits
Stay Connected
We’re continually expanding programs, tools, and opportunities for learning, creation, and business growth. Your membership, involvement, and support help make all of this—and more—possible.
Thank you for being part of our community!
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