The Innovation Center, situated at 10th Street and K-96 Highway in Great Bend, has publicly announced its plan to impact the local community. The center aims to promote creativity and encourage collaborative engagement among the residents in an inclusive environment.
This initiative, costing around $7 million, has the potential to bolster local businesses and promote continuous learning for its residents. The center is expected to inspire future generations within the area, acting as a catalyst for technological advancements and societal growth.
The project’s realization timeline spans two years, and a team of professionals has been appointed for execution. The funding for the project has been largely secured through investors, revealing their growing confidence. The team’s commitment to the project ensures its progress remains steady, in spite of faced challenges.
Sara Arnberger, the Director of Economic Development for Great Bend, holds high hopes for the Innovation Center. She believes the center will not only contribute to the region’s economic growth, but also prove Great Bend to be a hub of top-tier facilities and resources in central Kansas.
Innovation Center’s transformative plans for Great Bend
This development is viewed as an opportunity for thriving local businesses and entrepreneurs.
The majority of the necessary funding has been procured, and efforts to secure the remaining 25% are ongoing. Public fundraising events are planned to increase awareness and community participation. Despite financial constraints, the progress made is remarkable and signifies a promising future for the project.
The center will host a Fab Lab with 3D printers, flight simulators, woodworking tools, and more. In addition to this high-tech equipment, the center will adhere to green building standards, promoting sustainability. A shared commercial kitchen will cater to childcare providers and aspiring chefs in the local area, fostering a vibrant culinary community.
Leafy Green Farms will operate a farm pod within the center to provide hands-on training in crop care, transforming the center into an agricultural learning hub. Lastly, the center will partner with local schools, organizing workshops and seminars to nurture the potential of the youth.
The Innovation Center is not just aiming to enhance the quality of life in central Kansas, but intends to redefine its economic landscape altogether.
