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E-ship News: 2- $5k Grants, Youth Challenge & Maker Space

11 Mar 2026 7:56 AM | Jim Correll (Administrator)

IBRC-LSA Entrepreneurship E-News

Programs, funding, and opportunities for entrepreneurs in Southeast Kansas.

Innovation Grants

Two $5,000 Innovation Grants Available

Entrepreneurs and innovators in Montgomery County and the surrounding area can apply for two $5,000 innovation grants through the ACCEL-KS initiative. The funding helps promising ideas move toward commercialization and new business opportunities.

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Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Winners

Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Results

Student entrepreneurs from area high schools recently showcased their businesses at the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge trade show. Participants gained real-world experience pitching ideas, selling products, and competing for scholarship prizes and advancement to the state competition.

Click here to see who these winners are and view a slide show of the event.

Life Skills Academy Maker Space Membership

Life Skills Academy Maker Space Membership

A limited-time introductory membership offer is available for the Life Skills Academy Maker Space. Members gain access to professional tools including 3D printing, laser engraving, wide-format printing, sewing equipment, and more.

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Regional Youth Entrepreneur Competition

Regional Youth Entrepreneur Wild Card Competition

Several Montgomery County youth entrepreneurs will compete for a Wild Card slot in the Kansas state competition on April 29. Sponsorship opportunities are available to support the regional event.

Download Flier

For more info, email Dacia Clark, dclark@pittstate.edu

Download Flyer

Gap Financing for Entrepreneurs

Gap Financing Available

Gap financing helps entrepreneurs bridge the difference between what banks can lend and the capital required to launch or expand a business. Through the E-Community program, flexible financing options are available to support new and growing businesses.

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Life Skills Academy Equipment

Life Skills Academy Equipment

The Life Skills Academy Maker Space includes a wide range of tools for entrepreneurs and creators—from design software and laser engraving to wide-format printing and digital production equipment.

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See Equipment


Jim Correll

Executive Director,
Innovative Business Resource Center

PO Box 1513
Coffeyville Kansas
jimc@ibrcenter.org
620-252-5349


Laura Schaid

Director, Life Skills Academy and Maker Space

115 W Myrtle, Independence, KS 67301

lauras@ibrcenter.org

620-205-9288

"Innovative Business Resource Center" (IBRC) is a Kansas Not-for-Profit organization and a 501(c)3 organization. Montgomery County, Kansas.

IBRC is the local partner organization for Montgomery County E-Community, a Network Kansas initiative.

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