Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) announces the receipt of $394,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation Thriving Rural Grant program. The grant funds will allow GBED to purchase equipment and furnishings for the IGNITE Innovation Center, a multi-purpose community facility that will provide essential resources to the Barton County area. 

“We are excited to bring this one-of-a-kind center to Barton County,” said Sara Arnberger, president of GBED. “With expanded licensed child care slots, increased high-speed internet access, and programs that enhance workforce development, education, and health care needs, the IGNITE Innovation Center enhances our ability to support the needs of our community.” 

This center will include overnight child care facilities to help accommodate workers with shift-based employment, a maker space for entrepreneurship, a workforce resource center, and an area designated for health screening services. 

IGNITE Innovation Center project collaborators include The University of Kansas Health System, KansasWorks, Barton Community College, and Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC). 

“Together with the project partners and collaborators, we will introduce services that are currently unavailable in the region, supporting the local community’s growth and development,” said Arnberger. “This holistic approach aims to meet the diverse needs of the community and promote a thriving rural environment.”