The 5 Biggest Reasons Why The Great Bend Chamber Of Commerce Is Reshaping Central Kansas's Economy
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is currently undergoing one of its most transformative periods, solidifying its role as the primary engine for business growth and community vitality in Barton County, Kansas. As of late 2024, the Chamber is not just facilitating networking; it is spearheading major, multi-million-dollar projects and comprehensive workforce strategies designed to future-proof the entire central Kansas region.
This article dives deep into the Chamber's five core initiatives, the recent 2024 award winners, and the highly anticipated move to a state-of-the-art facility, providing the freshest, most relevant insights into how the organization is actively shaping the economic landscape of Great Bend, KS, and ensuring its members remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.
The Leadership and Vision Driving Great Bend's Business Future
The success of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is directly tied to a dedicated team and a strategic Board of Directors who champion the five core initiatives. These leaders ensure the Chamber's efforts are aligned with the needs of the local economy, which is historically rooted in agriculture, oil and gas, and a growing hub of professional services.
Key Chamber Leadership Profile:
- President/CEO: Megan Barfield (Serving since 2016)
- Chair of the Board: Rob E. Bauer (Bauer Pike Law)
- Past Chair of the Board: Shelly Peacock (Insurance Planning Services)
- Director of Marketing: Ashley Hickman
- Member Success: Julie Mazouch
The Chamber’s organizational structure is built around a clear, five-pronged strategy to enhance the quality of life and business environment in Great Bend, KS. This strategic focus ensures comprehensive support for businesses ranging from the Great Bend Co-op to local retail establishments and professional service firms.
1. The Game-Changing Move: The Ignite Innovation Center
One of the most significant and recent developments is the Chamber's plan to relocate its offices to the new Ignite Innovation Center on West 10th St.. This move is more than just a change of address; it represents a major investment in the future of the Great Bend economy and entrepreneurship.
The Ignite Innovation Center is a large, multi-purpose community facility built with the help of a substantial $4.38 million grant. The project, spearheaded by Great Bend Economic Development, aims to create a dynamic hub for business creation, collaboration, and technological advancement. The groundbreaking ceremony for this highly anticipated center was scheduled for December 2024, marking the official start of construction for this economic catalyst.
By moving its operations into the Innovation Center, the Chamber will be strategically positioned at the heart of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing direct support and resources to startups, existing businesses looking to scale, and initiatives focused on modernizing the traditional oil and agriculture industries in Barton County.
2. Core Initiative: Strategic Workforce Development and Retention
Addressing the critical need for skilled labor and population growth is a top priority for the Great Bend Chamber. Their Workforce Development and Business & People Retention initiatives are tightly linked, focusing on both attracting new talent and keeping current residents engaged.
The Grow Workforce Partnership
The Chamber actively participates in the Grow Workforce Partnership, a collaborative effort with key entities like Great Bend Economic Development, KansasWorks, and Barton Community College. This partnership works to bridge the gap between employers and job seekers, ensuring the local labor pool—known for its adaptability and loyalty—meets the demands of major industries like oil, gas, and construction.
Specific retention efforts include the "Cups of Cheers" event, a unique welcome program designed to spread cheer and provide relocation packets to individuals and families new to the Great Bend community. This focus on new residents and retention is crucial for sustaining the local tax base and supporting businesses like FedEx, McDonald's, and JCPenney, which rely on a stable consumer market.
3. Celebrating Excellence: The 2024 Annual Awards
The Chamber’s 102nd Annual Awards Ceremony, held in early 2024, highlighted the outstanding contributions of individuals and businesses that elevate the quality of life in Great Bend. These awards are a powerful tool for recognizing local excellence and promoting a culture of community investment.
Key 2024 Great Bend Chamber Award Winners:
- Business of the Year: MPIRE Realty Group
- MPIRE Realty Group was recognized for demonstrating excellence in the marketplace, exceptional customer service, and a positive response in the face of adversity, checking all the boxes for the prestigious award.
- Citizen of the Year: Dr. Perry Smith
- Dr. Smith was honored for his outstanding service and contributions to the community, embodying the spirit of mentorship, involvement, and devotion.
- NextGen Leader Award: (Past winner Jason Mayers, 2017)
- This award recognizes individuals who boldly invest in the community, showcasing the next generation of leadership in Barton County.
The annual event serves as a major networking opportunity, bringing together business leaders and community members to celebrate the achievements that drive Great Bend forward.
4. Elevating the Community: Marketing and Advocacy
Beyond workforce and innovation, the Chamber focuses heavily on Business & Community Marketing and Business Advocacy. These initiatives ensure that Great Bend is seen as an attractive place to live, work, and invest, while also giving local businesses a voice in policy decisions.
- Business & Community Marketing: The Chamber is actively involved in promoting Great Bend to a wider audience, highlighting its strengths as a central Kansas hub for commerce and quality of life. The "Elevate GBK Beyond Today" campaign, which drew over 80 investors and business leaders, is a testament to this coordinated marketing effort aimed at long-term community growth.
- Business Advocacy: The Chamber serves as a crucial liaison between local businesses and government, advocating for policies that support the marketplace. This includes supporting development in areas like retail, dining, and professional services, which are vital components of the local economy. Regular events like "Chamber Coffee" and ribbon cuttings (such as the one for The Velvet Bookmark) keep the community connected and informed on new business developments.
5. Membership Development and Support
At its core, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization. The Membership Development & Support initiative is designed to provide tangible benefits and networking opportunities to its members.
The Chamber offers a variety of services, including networking events, group benefits, and targeted marketing initiatives. The goal is to measure their success by the achievements of their members, fostering a supportive environment where businesses can connect, share resources, and grow. For any business in the region, from the smallest startup to established entities like American State Bank or CUNA Mutual Retirement Solutions, joining the Chamber provides a direct pathway to greater visibility and collaborative growth within the central Kansas community.
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