A K-State 105 project is driving economic growth in Douglas County by creating an entrepreneurship ecosystem, with plans to replicate the model in other Kansas counties. Collaborating with K-State Research and Extension, Kyle Johnson, founder of Douglas County CORE, Inc., estimates that this initiative could generate 1,300 tech and 300 non-tech high-paying jobs by 2040. Johnson said this could potentially increase the local gross domestic product – an indicator of economic success based on the total market value of local goods and services –  by $1.2 billion.

Douglas County CORE, which stands for Connections, Opportunities, and Resources for Entrepreneurs, aims to simplify entrepreneurship in the county. The project has introduced quarterly programs to attract entrepreneurs, including pitch competitions, monthly meetings, fellowships, and microgrants, filling a gap that previously existed in Douglas County.

Financial backing from the K-State 105 program, which enhances economic growth through K-State’s network, has been instrumental. The program connects local initiatives with statewide expertise and resources. Douglas County CORE’s goal is to attract 100 entrepreneurs in 2024, with 94 already signed up.

A startup weekend is planned for October 4-6 at KU Innovation Park to assist early-stage tech projects.

You can find more information about Douglas County CORE and its programs here.