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CO.STARTERS Core spring grads celebrated
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Courtesy photo Pictured (back row left to right): Jeremy Elliott, Patsy Denault, Jonnie Weesner, Brad Fanshier, Melissa Prosser. (Front row) Christina Sakcriska, April Steinert, and Regan Reif.

Great Bend Economic Development Inc. (GBED) celebrated the Spring 2025 cohort of the CO.STARTERS Core program with a graduation and tradeshow event on Wednesday, May 7, in the Fort Zarah Room at the Great Bend Events Center. The event brought together participants’ friends and family, GBED board and committee members, local entrepreneur speakers, past program alumni, and local sponsors to recognize the accomplishments of Barton County’s newest group of entrepreneurs.

The evening began with each participant delivering their final business pitch — showcasing the skills, strategies, and confidence gained over the course of the 10-week program. Following the presentations, attendees explored the tradeshow portion of the evening, where each entrepreneur hosted a booth to introduce their products, services, or business concepts to the community.

This spring’s graduates —April Steinert, Melissa Prosser, Christina Sakcriska, Brad Fanshier, Patsy Denault and Jonni Weesner — spent 10 weeks learning from local entrepreneur speakers, experienced facilitators Regan Reif and Jeremy Elliott, and the nationally recognized CO.STARTERS curriculum. Participants were guided through topics such as customer discovery, financial modeling, marketing strategies, and long-term growth planning.

“There is a huge disconnect between starting a business in 1990 versus starting a business in 2025,” said participant Melissa Prosser. “(CO.STARTERS Core) has been really good for me; it has given me the confidence, and given me the push forward to open myself up.”

CO.STARTERS is a cohort-based program that encourages aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs to build and test their business models in a supportive and collaborative environment. The program’s hands-on, customer-focused approach helps participants avoid common startup pitfalls and develop viable, sustainable businesses.

The next CO.STARTERS Core session begins September 3 and runs weekly for 10 weeks. The cost for the program is $300, which includes all materials and a weekly meal. Space is limited and early applications are encouraged.

For more information or to apply, visit www.gbedinc.com/costarters.