Topeka's Omni Circle Group expands "Ignite: New Venture Discovery' program to Lawrence through partnership with Douglas County eCommunity

Topeka-based Omni Circle Group, host organization for the Shawnee Startups eCommunity, is expanding its “Ignite: New Venture Discovery” program to the Lawrence area through a collaborative partnership with the Douglas County eCommunity. The partnership represents the first time two Network Kansas eCommunity partners have teamed up to expand access to resources for Kansas entrepreneurs.

Omni’s Ignite program is for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to explore and validate new business ideas. Participants receive guidance on identifying opportunities, assessing market potential and developing a foundation for their venture. They can expect to come into the program with an idea, dream or vision, and leave with a strong market concept and business plan. Aspiring entrepreneurs from Lawrence and across Douglas County are invited to apply.

“In Topeka, Ignite has helped more than 65 people develop their business ideas into viable concepts. We’re excited to reach an even greater number of potential entrepreneurs by bringing this program to the Lawrence/Douglas County area,” said Omni CEO Michael Odupitan. “Omni has always been committed to serving the entrepreneurs who need us most. From the start, we’ve believed geography shouldn’t determine access, and that’s exactly why expanding the reach of our program is the right move. We’re working to help more Kansas entrepreneurs succeed, because we know the power of entrepreneurship is greater than a zip code.”

Ignite is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, and open to everyone. The 8-week course incorporates Kauffman FastTrac’s Learning Management System, uses a workbook unique to Omni’s program, and includes coaching strategy that further elevates the participant experience.

“We had been in discussions with Omni for a while to build our connection and explore ways to collaborate and expand opportunities for entrepreneurs,” said small-business owner Nicole Rials, representing the Douglas County eCommunity. “When we heard what they were doing with their Ignite program, we knew immediately the impact it could have here in Douglas County. We're confident Lawrence and surrounding communities will become even more vibrant and prosperous as more entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds are inspired to build meaningful businesses from the solid foundation Omni’s Ignite program provides.”

Ignite is expected to launch in Lawrence on March 23, with sessions being held at The Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center. Informational sessions about the program will be held over the coming weeks, starting Feb. 16. More information can be found at OmniCircle.org/Ignite. Program registration is available at this online form. 

“The collaborative nature of this cross-county eCommunity partnership represents the type of support network we want to create for entrepreneurs across Kansas,” said Erik Pedersen, President and COO of Network Kansas. “This is a win-win-win scenario that empowers our eCommunity partners and ESOs to do what they do best to ensure bright, motivated entrepreneurs come out on top.”

ABOUT OMNI CIRCLE GROUP
Omni Circle Group works to unite and strengthen communities by promoting equitable opportunities for underserved members to grow personally and professionally and create economic impact through entrepreneurship. It fulfills its mission through three primary pillars, prioritizing community development to fulfill basic needs, personal and professional development that empowers members, and business development across its Topeka Startup Community. It is also a Network Kansas eCommunity partner. Learn more at www.OmniCircle.org.

ABOUT THE DOUGLAS COUNTY eCOMMUNITY
The Douglas County eCommunity is comprised of Douglas County, Baldwin City, the City of Eudora, and the City of Lecompton. The initiative was formed in 2011, as a partner in the Network Kansas eCommunity program. The eCommunity program works to identify and develop resources that assist local entrepreneurs in starting or growing a business.