From Great Bend Economic Development...
Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, it’s time to turn your innovative ideas into reality! The IGNITE 2025 Business Competition is officially open for entries, offering participants a chance to compete for their share of a $95,000 prize pool.
The competition, hosted by Great Bend Economic Development (GBED), is Barton County’s Shark Tank-style event, designed to empower and celebrate entrepreneurship in the local community. IGNITE invites individuals and teams to pitch their business ideas, connect with mentors, and gain access to resources that can launch or grow their businesses.
Key Details:
· Prize Pool: $95,000 total
o 1st Place: $50,000
o 2nd Place: $30,000
o 3rd Place: $10,000
o An additional $5,000 People’s Choice Award will be voted on during the finals.
· Entry Deadline: July 1, 2025
· Finals Event: October 9, 2025, at the historic Crest Theater in downtown Great Bend
“IGNITE is more than a competition,” said Lee Ann June, Communications Director of GBED. “It’s an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the startups in Barton County, while providing critical support to entrepreneurs who are building the businesses of tomorrow.”
Participants will compete in multiple rounds, starting with a business pitch submission. Semi-finalists will move on to further refine their ideas with the help of mentors and business experts, culminating in the live finals where they’ll present to a panel of judges and a live audience at the Crest Theater.
In addition to the prize money, participants gain invaluable mentorship, exposure, and a chance to join Barton County’s growing network of successful entrepreneurs.
How to Enter:
To enter IGNITE 2025, submit your business idea or concept at igniteks.com before July 1, 2025. Entries are open to individuals and teams focused on creating economic impact in Barton County. A detailed list of submission requirements is available on the VentureDash platform, accessible through the competition dashboard on igniteks.com.
This is a fantastic opportunity for new businesses to gain exposure, receive expert guidance, and compete for funding that could kickstart or expand your entrepreneurial journey.