Chamber News
CHAMBER LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
Our 2024 Topeka Chamber legislative priorities can be found online at TopekaPartnership.com/ topeka-chamber. After having removed successful policies that passed last year, our areas of interest continue to fall under the umbrella of "Kansans Work," with key issues including child care, workforce training, higher education, and housing.
Greater Topeka
Chamber PAC
CHAMBER PAC NEWS
The Topeka Chamber Political Action Committee is seeking your support! Elections will be here in no time, and the PAC is asking those of you interested in getting active in your community to contact us today to see how you can help with the committee's pillars of outreach, education, and endorsement.
TOPEKA DAY AT THE CAPITOL
On Feb. 6, join the Topeka Chamber from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Topeka Day at the Capitol, a newer program designed to spotlight Topeka to state elected officials! If you are a business owner or representative, consider setting up a booth to inform the public about what your company does, or join us for the legislative program to hear updates from the statehouse while experiencing a day of the legislative session.
The METL Agenda
The Topeka Chamber is pleased that our regional legislative agenda has come to life, in partnership with chambers in Manhattan, Emporia and Lawrence, communities comprising Kansas' METL (Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, Lawrence) coalition. This METL agenda was presented in our December legislative preview meeting with area legislators. Newer priorities include increasing funding to career technical education, coming up with child care solutions, and bridging the college dropout rate gap.
Equity & Opportunity
EQUITY & OPPORTUNITY BUSINESS PITCH COMPETITION
Eleven entrepreneurs and new business owners participated in the Equity & Opportunity Business Pitch Contest. Taking home first place was Chef Lamona Scroggins, who pitched her frozen gumbo product that will soon be offered in local grocery stores. Chef Lamona is well known for her gumbo and will offer chicken and sausage gumbo; a shrimp, chicken and sausage option; as well as a vegetarian option. Her frozen gumbos may be taken home and prepared according to directions, making her coveted creole cuisine even more accessible. Scroggins secured $15,000 from the pitch contest to make that expansion into stores possible.
The following pitch contest winners were also recognized:
2nd place – The Grind Coaching & Consulting, Fatima Luthi for a new mobile app ($10,000)
3rd place – Paletas Royale ice cream, Esteban Polanco ( $8,000)
4th place – Topeka Treats, Jaime Davis ($5,000)
HISPANIC OUTREACH
How to Start A Business Workshop
The “How to Build a Business” workshop which was presented by a collaborative effort of GO Topeka, US Bank, and the Small Business Development Center, offered aspiring entrepreneurs a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business successfully. About 30 people attended the event.
SMALL BUSINESS INCENTIVES UPDATE
Following the close of our fall Small Business Incentives application window, the selection committee approved awarding almost $158,000 to 25 unique companies, funding 33 different incentive projects. The winter 2024 application window is open, and applicants can continue to use GO Topeka’s new online automated system for ease and convenience.
In the fall window, GO Topeka saw a few participants from Spanish translation information sessions apply and receive awards, marking the success of our bilingual programming. In November, the Small Business Incentives program was also part of a presentation at a Lenders Luncheon, allowing us to share the opportunity with our banking community so they can better serve their clients and pass along the opportunity when relevant.
LOOKING AHEAD: ATHENA LEADERSHIP
GO Topeka is gearing up for the 2nd cohort of the Athena Leadership Program! Designed to empower and uplift women leaders, Athena provides a unique platform for professional growth and mentorship.
Applications are now open, so pass this opportunity along to women in the Topeka & Shawnee Country area to join a community of dynamic women, break barriers, and soar to new heights in their leadership journey.
Website: https://www.gotopeka.com/ becomingathena/
Small Business
*Some companies may have been awarded more than one incentive.
On October 3, we held our third and final information session where we presented on the Small Business Incentives in Spanish to the community; this session was held at the Oakland Community Center. Following the information sessions, we held a workshop in the level 2 Tech Center at the TSCPL, where we were able to assist applicants through the process of applying and with their additional required documents. Translation services were provided by members of our team, the City of Topeka, and community volunteers.
WASHBURN PITCH COMPETITION
Washburn University held their annual pitch competition from October 18 to November 1st, 2023. This competition featured students from their School of Business and Entrepreneurship Class and clubs. Over 50 students began the competition, which was narrowed over the course of 3 rounds. Ultimately top competitors walked away with cash prizes ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 and the chance to attend the upcoming Plug and Play Summit in Silicon Valley. Go Topeka was the presenting sponsor for this event and was involved in various support roles throughout the competition.
GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP WEEK
We celebrated Global Entrepreneurship Week from Nov 13- 17th with great events hosted by Go Topeka as well as several of our community partners. Firstly, Washburn held an Ichabod’s of Industry featuring a downtown business owner and entrepreneur, Ken Schmanke. That evening, we invited our network to join us at Business Unwind, celebrating WIBW’s 70th anniversary. On Wednesday, we supported the Women in Business Conference hosted by the Kansas Chamber, where we were able to fill a table with a group of women that are anywhere from aspiring business owners to those actively on that journey. On Thursday, we held our Propeller End of Year Celebration, bringing back the participants of the mentorship program through the year, along with the small business council and those interested in participating in propeller in the future. Here, we held the Small Business Saturday Proclamation with Mayor Padilla, and listened to Tara Dimick as our keynote on her journey of mentorship and growth as an entrepreneur. Later that evening, we held the Equity and Opportunity Pitch contest.
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL TRAINING SERIES
On December 14th, the Small Business Council hosted their bi- monthly training. This month featured Martha B Piland as she presented on Networking 101. This engaging session allowed participants to listen, learn, and practice skills to better help them in personal and professional networking opportunities. Following the session, guests stayed to make new connections and learn more about the programs and resources available through Go Topeka and the Greater Topeka Partnership.
SMALL BUSINESS INCENTIVES APPLICATION WINDOW
The Fall Small Business Incentive window closed and the committee approved to award almost 198k to 27 different companies, covering 35 different incentive projects. The Winter 2024 window is open, where applicants can continue to use our new automated system for ease and convenience. In this window, we saw success as a few of the participants from our translation sessions applied and were awarded. In November, our SBI program was part of a presentation at a Lenders Luncheon, sharing the opportunity with our banking community so they can better help serve their clients and share the 8 gotopeka.com opportunity.
Business Attraction
GO Topeka works continuously to bring awareness of the business assets in Topeka and Shawnee County to site selectors and companies looking to relocate or expand. Currently, the new business attraction portfolio holds 27 active projects in various industry sectors: 13 manufacturing, six aviation, two R&D and distribution, four general office/data center, and one bioscience.
New Business, Retention & Expansion , Small Business, Women & Minority,
YTD AS OF 12/31/23
190 NEW PROJECTS
83 NEW JOBS
430 NEW PROJECTS
86 COMPLETED PROJECTS
736 RETAINED JOBS
66 ACTIVE PROJECTS
262 TRAINING INVESTMENTS (NUMBER OF PEOPLE IMPACTED)
6,330,898 CAPITAL INVESTMENTS
PLEASE NOTE:
232 people specifically reached out in response to the Telemundo special.
Workforce & Talent
2.0 Relocation Incentive $184,500
IN TOTAL COMMITTED FUNDS
$164,500 EMPLOYER MATCH FUNDS
$20,000 BOOMERANG FUNDS
APPROVED FAMILIES EMPLOYER MATCHED RENTING BOOMERANG PURCHASED HOMES UNIQUE EMPLOYER SUBMITTALS # OF STATES MOVED FROM PROFILES CREATED ON SKILLFIT 40 17 19 4 21 9 15 9600+
One of the participating employers relocated their business from Colorado to Topeka, moved three of their key team members to Shawnee County utilizing the Choose Topeka Program. $87,454 TOTAL AVERAGE SALARY $85,175 EMPLOYER MATCH $89,732 BOOMERANG 14.7x $669,125 RETURN ON INVESTMENT 75.7x $3,431,279 RETURN ON INVESTMENT AFTER 5 YEARS Economic Impact Analysis
*INTERESTING FACT*
CHOOSE IN THE NEWS
GO Topeka uses several public relation tools and have cultivated relationships with regional and national media to help maintain brand awareness through earned media. In 2023 we secured the New York Post, Wall Street Journal, NBC News, Telemundo, Telemadrid, and more. This totals an earned media value of $14M since 2019.
HOTEL TOPEKA
On June 7, 2023, the City of Topeka successfully acquired the Hotel Topeka at auction for $7.6 million. Braxton Copley, Director of Public Works, was appointed as project manager, with REVPAR International designated as asset manager effective October 10th.
To ensure a smooth transition, Visit Topeka staff met with REVPAR International representatives in November, providing comprehensive updates on the hotel and local market conditions.
On February 6th, The Topeka Development Corporation (the hotel’s ownership LLC) received a very positive initial report from Rick Pastorino of REVPAR International. This report highlights the strong feasibility of repositioning the hotel as a branded asset, indicating a promising future for the project.
METL PRAIRIE POUR TOUR
Last May, we launched the successful MET&L Prairie Pour Tour – a heavymetal-themed, self-guided tour showcasing the best breweries in the region. Produced in partnership with Explore Lawrence, Visit Emporia, and Visit Manhattan, the program attracted 815 pass signups and an impressive 2,537 check-ins. 149 dedicated participants even qualified for the final prize package!
Get ready for Season 2 of the MET&L Prairie Pour Tour launching in March 2024!
Visit Topeka 2024-2025 Advertising Campaign
Our marketing team has enjoyed a two-year collaboration with Topeka-born Broadway performer Jeff Kready and his family for our 2024-2025 advertising campaign. Through this partnership, we were connected with Steven Lutvak, the Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist of “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.”
Mammoth Creative filmed a promotional video for the campaign at various Topeka locations on October 6th and 7th. The production included a large, simulated parade in Downtown Topeka with media coverage by WIBW.
We were deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Steven Lutvak on October 9th, just days after the video shoot. Despite this heartbreaking loss, our team is dedicated to completing this project in a way that honors his memory and creative vision.
The campaign’s theme song debuted live at the Kready Holiday Spectacular at TPAC on December 23rd. The full campaign will launch in March 2024.
BROWN V. BOARD 70TH ANNIVERSARY
Brown Board
Topeka, Kansas
Equal Education Now and Always
In May, Arts Connect received a $100,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support an artist-in-residence program commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education case. After interviewing several potential candidates, Vanessa German was selected as the artist.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has provided a grant of one-third of the program’s total cost, which requires a community match. Visit Topeka has pledged $100,000 to promote Topeka as a prominent national arts destination. The Arts Connect team will secure an additional $100,000 through private funding sources. In June, as part of their revised budget for 2023, the Visit Topeka Board of Directors approved this funding.
M oreover, the Marketing Development Grant program of Kansas Tourism has awarded an additional $5,000 in support.
The community-based planning process and other potential contributors to the commemoration events planned for 2024 are still being supported. Recently, the GTP Marketing Team created a set of brand standards for the marketing efforts supporting this historic event. The website is now in development and expected to launch in early March.
NASHVILLE NIGHTS
Visit Topeka is delighted to continue our sponsorship of Nashville Nights in partnership with AIM Strategies. Last fall, we welcomed this exceptional showcase of country music songwriting to the Topeka Performing Arts Center, featuring award-winning songwriters Lee Thomas Miller, Wendell Mobley, and Kansas native Barry Dean. These master craftsmen have created numerous #1 hits for renowned artists such as Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, and Little Big Town. We anticipate announcing the equally impressive spring lineup within the next few weeks
THUNDER OVER THE HEARTLAND AIRSHOW
Visit Topeka is proud to sponsor the return of the Thunder Over the Heartland Airshow to Topeka Regional Airport on October 12-14, 2024! Prepare to witness the precision and power of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, along with breathtaking displays from top-tier aerial performers and dazzling pyrotechnic night shows. This premier event promises an unforgettable experience for all. Visit Topeka will host a press conference on February 28th at 9 AM to provide further details.
2023 ADVERTISING EFFECTIVENESS STUDY
In the February meeting, the board of directors will hear from H2R Market Research the firm that studies the effectiveness of our annual advertising campaign. The key takeaway from this research is an understanding of the return on investment from our marketing and advertising spending. I’m proud to say we have yet another positive review of our campaign work. At the core of the study are the following metrics: Visit Topeka generated 55k incremental trips, $25M in incremental spending, and a $103 gross return on investment per dollar spent on the campaign. A final report for the year is included in this packet.
HOTEL PERFORMANCE METRICS
According to STR reporting, Topeka’s hotel revenue in December saw ADR fall back to $88.86, while demand landed at 35,275 for the month. Room revenue totaled $3.1 million.
In 2023, Topeka hotels generated a record $51,120,321 in revenue from 534,827 rooms sold at an average daily rate of $95.25.
January reporting saw ADR jump back over $90 to $91.84. Demand held at 35,347 with total revenue settling at $3.2 million.
Forge Recap
FORGE FIRSTS
Forge Young Talent strives to be innovative as a young professionals organization and aims to be a leader in our community. Below is a list of "firsts" Forge celebrated in 2023:
• Hosted first-ever Kansas Young Professionals Day at the Capitol
• Developed inaugural Forge Advocacy Agenda
• Held first Forge Rooftop Concert as part of a reimagined ForgeFest
• Held first on-campus event in partnership with Washburn's Student Government Association and Washburn alumni
• Launched new employer/employee engagement program
• Eclipsed 200 new members in a single calendar year
• Launched on-campus recruitment effort at regional colleges
• Hosted first event in Topeka in partnership with KU students from the College of Engineering
FORGE MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
Forge Young Talent gained 233 new members in 2023! This is the highest number on record for Forge new member recruitment, which has been a focus over the past two years. Forge achieved this record growth by implementing a couple of new strategies in markets it hadn’t targeted in the past.
After the success of new member marketing campaigns in 2022, Forge expanded its new member campaign in 2023 to include both spring and fall windows. The expansion included targeting nearby colleges, including Washburn University, University of Kansas, and Kansas State University, with digital marketing. In addition to digital marketing, Forge also put boots on the ground and tabled events at both Washburn and KU to get direct engagement with current students and soon-to-be members of the workforce. A second strategy was to refocus efforts to engage with area interns participating in the TopCity Interns program. Even though it’s an official Forge initiative, we felt the TopCity Interns program and interns who participate had become siloed away from the larger Forge membership. Forge thought it would be beneficial for both groups to interact during events. We saw some initial success with this and want to continue that focus in 2024.
In addition to those strategies, Forge also continued its traditional efforts of working with local employers to engage their new hires and under-40 employees. All of this led to 233 new members in 2023, which was 34 new members than the previous year, and a total of 433 new members in the last two years.
YOUNG TALENT
FORGE WEBSITE TRAFFIC:
When evaluating website traffic, we looked at the top five pages of the Forge ecosystem within the GO Topeka website. Forge made a concerted effort to drive traffic back to the website during campaigns and event marketing to train members to check the website for event information. Website information is below.
TOTAL TRAFFIC OF TOP 5 PAGES
6,915
PAGEVIEWS
4,047
ENEWS:
Enews is one of our main channels of communication along with our social media accounts and website. Our enews list distribution list is about 1500 Forge members, and we primarily include Forge events and programming, community events geared toward young professionals, and other news from around the community that would be relevant to our audience. In 2023 we sent a total of 45 enews out with opens totaling 24,891 which led to a total of 1,011 unique link clicks. For the year we averaged a 40.25% open rate.
40.25% OPEN RATE
TOPCITY INTERN WEBSITE TRAFFIC:
When evaluating the website traffic for the TopCity Interns program we looked 2 webpages. These webpages were the only pages that focused on the TopCity Interns program. 1 page focused on program information and a form for employers to inquire about the program or sign up and the other page included a form to sign up interns from those participating employers. Website information from the TopCity intern webpages is below.
15,682
TOPCITY INTERN HOME PAGE & EMPLOYER FORM PAGE VIEWS
1,178 INTERN SUBMISSION FORM PAGE VIEWS
GTP Staff Updates
GTP, TOPEKA CHAMBER ANNOUNCE JULIET ABDEL AS NEXT CHAMBER PRESIDENT
GTP WELCOMES THOMAS TO EVENTS TEAM
Help us welcome Claire Thomas to The Partnership’s Events team! Claire joined our team in August as the GTP’s Events Coordinator. Claire has a bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University, where she gained event experience from her campus involvement and a variety of internships.
NEXTGEN UNDER 30
The Partnership is excited to recognize three of its staff members as honorees in the 2023 class of NextGen Under 30 Kansas! Ashlee Spring, director of investor relations; India Yarborough, director of communications; and Erin Young, marketing account manager, will be recognized alongside fellow honorees at an award ceremony in Wichita this October.
The Greater Topeka Partnership and the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce the appointment of Juliet Abdel as the new President of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. Abdel currently serves as President and CEO of the Westminster Chamber of Commerce in Westminster, Colorado. She will assume her role in Topeka in November 2023. Abdel brings a wealth of experience in chamber leadership and advocacy to her new position. She has held the position of CEO at the Westminster Chamber of Commerce since 2017 and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to driving economic growth and prosperity in the communities she has served. Abdel, who has been recognized among the top 1% of chamber executives nationwide, will be the first woman to assume the Chamber president role since the organization’s founding in 1933.
TRINA GOSS SELECTED FOR U.S. CHAMBER FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced Trina Goss, Director of Business & Talent Initiatives for GO Topeka, was selected to participate in the eighth cohort of its premiere business leadership program. The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips leaders from state and local chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and trade associations with resources, access to experts, and a network of peers to build their capacity to address the most pressing education and workforce challenges.
Following a competitive application and selection process, Goss was selected — along with 34 other state and local chamber executives, economic development professionals, and association leaders — to participate in the eighth class of this program. The sixmonth program, consisting of both in person and virtual meetings, will cover the entire talent pipeline, including early childhood education, K-12, postsecondary education, and workforce development.
Upon completion, Business Leads Fellows will join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s dedicated network of more than 250 chambers of commerce and statewide associations from around the nation that regularly engage on education and workforce initiatives.
GTP ADDS 2 NEW HIRES IN JUNE
The GTP was excited to welcome Manuel Castro to our team in June to serve as Executive Coordinator for GO Topeka. Manuel will support GO Topeka’s Innovation, Small Business, and Equity and Opportunity sectors. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Manuel earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Kansas, where he also worked for the TRIO SES & STEM Program for several years. The GTP also welcomed John Koop to The Partnership team in June to serve as our new Director of Events. John has worked in the events industry for more than 20 years, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge with him to The Partnership. He also holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas.
WELCOME, CALLIE!
Help us welcome Callie Zirkle to The Partnership’s Resource Development team! We were excited to have Callie join our staff in March as the GTP’s new Membership Sales Manager. Callie has obtained a wealth of sales experience from positions held at Goodyear and Prairie Band Casino & Resort. She holds a bachelor of business administration with a major in finance and minor in marketing. If you have a prospective member in mind, let Callie know at Callie.Zirkle@ TopekaPartnership.com.
GTP’S STEPHANIE NORWOOD NAMED DIRECTOR OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP, SMALL BUSINESS
The Greater Topeka Partnership and GO Topeka were pleased to announce this spring that Stephanie Norwood has been named GO Topeka’s Director of Entrepreneurship and Small Business. Norwood steps into the role after serving for more than three years as The Partnership’s Director of Events. She succeeds Laurie Pieper, who accepted the position of Assistant State Director for Kansas’ Small Business Development Center. Norwood was hired for the role following a competitive application and interview process. Following a period of transition, she has been fully cemented in the new role and will serve on GO Topeka’s innovation and entrepreneurship team.
GTP WELCOMES NEW MORENO IN NOVEMBER
Jessyca Moreno joined The Partnership on Monday, Nov. 6 as Manager of Downtown Topeka & River Strategies. Jessyca, who also goes by Jessy, has a wealth of community involvement! She graduated from the Citizens Police Academy, the City of Topeka Public Works Academy, and volunteers with Boys and Girls Clubs of Topeka as a member of Club Blue. She is also bilingual, with fluency in both English and Spanish.
MOLLY MAKING MOVES
In December, GO Topeka President Molly Howey was named one of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ 40 Under 40 honorees! Each year, ACCE recognizes top leaders in the chamber industry who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions in the communities they represent. We know Molly’s impact on Topeka/ Shawnee County has been tremendous!
In similar news, Molly was also recognized in December as an honoree in the We-KC edition of Ingram’s business magazine, as a member of the 2023 Class of Women Executives to watch. Earlier in the year, she was also named to Ingram’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2023. There is no other way to say it—Molly is making moves! We hope you’ll help us congratulate her on these recent successes.
DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATION
Mike Bell, TASC director and VP of sports sales for Visit Topeka, was recently chosen to serve on the 2024 Small Destination Task Force for Destinations International, the premier global trade association for destination and tourism professionals.
Congratulations, Mike!
Telling Topeka’s Story
TELLING TOPEKA’S STORY
In 2023, we shared some of Topeka’s story with the world, landing features and mentions in outlets like Forbes, NBC, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Telemundo, Business Insider, and more! Covered topics ranged from talent attraction and economic development to real estate, Plug and Play, diversity efforts and beyond!
99.1M
CHOOSE TOPEKA WEBSITE TRAFFIC:
When evaluating website traffic, we looked at the top five pages of the Choose Topeka website. Website information is below.
Downtown & Riverfront
TOPEKA PARTNERSHIP LAUNCHES
KANSAS RIVERFRONT ACTIVATION PLAN
The Greater Topeka Partnership and Riverfront Advisory Council, in cooperation with consultant Bolton & Menk, officially announced the launch in December of the Topeka Riverfront Activation Plan project. This campaign is designed to collect vital feedback from our community to help guide a strategic master plan for Topeka’s riverfront. A series of surveys and engagement opportunities will be available throughout 2024 and offered in several languages to ensure our entire community is given the opportunity to engage. The goal of a river master plan is to establish the city’s riverfront as a vibrant district that supports growth and economic development, connections to nature, recreation, and reinvestment in surrounding neighborhoods. To work toward this vision, the Riverfront Advisory Council has launched the website MyTopekaRiverfront.com. On this site, the public can learn more about the project, stay up to date on the latest information, and use an interactive map to leave comments and ideas. As engagement and planning kicks off, local partners from the Riverfront Advisory Council, State of Kansas, and City of Topeka have begun discussing the probability of removing metal debris still in the river from the flood of 1951.
MIRACLE ON KANSAS AVENUE TAKES DOWNTOWN BY STORM
On Dec. 2, downtown Topeka was transformed into the city’s hub for the holidays with the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade! 2023 brought an upgraded parade experience with the addition of the Shawnee County Parks + Recreation mobile stage and a carpet donated by GTP member Carpet One for float entries to pause and show off their holiday cheer on the parade route. Spectators were also welcomed to Evergy Plaza that night to enjoy Cookies and Carols sponsored by Topeka First United Methodist Church; the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting; and a meet-and-greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and live reindeer!
SUNFLOWER SALUTE PARADE
On Nov. 11, downtown Topeka welcomed the annual Sunflower Salute Veterans Day Parade to Kansas Avenue! This annual tradition seeks to recognize and honor Topeka-area Veterans and active service members. Participating in the parade were numerous floats, including several groups from local ROTC programs and various marching bands.
Innovation & Entepreneurship
PLUG AND PLAY SUMMIT
Plug and Play Summit was held at the Plug and Play Tech Center in Silicon Valley December 5th – 7th. Several members from the Topeka community including GO Topeka staff, Corporate Sponsors, Bimini Pet Health and Hills Pet Nutrition. This year Go Topeka sponsored Washburn Students Nick Petrella and Peyton Price who placed 1st and 2nd in the Washburn University Pitch Competition. These students had the opportunity to interact with startups at the Demo tables and Networking Events as well as attend Pitches and Industry sessions to experience the next level of entrepreneurship in their individual journeys.
Program Highlights - Topeka Visit
Five startups from the cohort made the post-Summit trip from Sunnyvale, CA to Topeka, KS, where they took part in a round table with Kansas State University faculty, toured the Capitol building (with state legislator Brenda Dietrich), KSU’s TDI facility, and Hill’s Small Paws Innovation Center, participated in a pitch practice workshop with Ed Reggi, and pitched to a small group of local investors.
HLEC
On October 11th, 2023 members of the K-State 105 partnership testified at the House Committee on Labor and Economic Development in the support of Small Business, Entrepreneurship and Innovation programs to drive economic growth throughout the state of Kansas. Representatives from Kansas State University, GO Topeka, Network Kansas, State of Kansas SBDC, Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Startup Hutch and others walked through existing programs, partnerships and opportunities throughout the state. House Committee on Commerce, Labor and Economic Development 10/11/2023 - YouTube
Media Coverage
Program related press releases gained over 32,000 views (not including local/Topeka outlets)!
Batch 6 Program Stats
Batch 8 Program Stats
Business Development & Opportunities
*More are in talks, just not confirmed
Satisfaction Score
Elite Characteristics
Interest Area Breakdown
Partnership Events
END OF YEAR RECAP
The Partnership’s new events department has made remarkable strides in learning and gaining valuable experience on the job. We’ve developed stronger relationships with sponsors, members, and the community. Our 10th annual Touch-A-Truck event, held in partnership with Zach Snethen, saw the largest turnout ever, with families enjoying the spectacle of big equipment and festivities downtown. In September, The Partnership’s Fall Women’s Forum at Hotel Topeka brought together female professionals for networking and insights from accomplished women in their fields.
In September, the events team also supported Forge Young Talent’s ForgeFest, organized our quarterly Power Breakfast at the Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library, and held a successful Business Unwind hosted by Mammoth and Boone & Bounty in Meriden. In October, GO Topeka’s Economic Outlook Conference, spearheaded by Patrick Altenor, attracted numerous business professionals seeking expert insights about the state of our local, regional, and national economies. On Oct. 6, Manufacturing Day, organized by GO Topeka and Washburn Tech, fostered connections with area high school students, exposing them to various local employers and opportunities in the manufacturing industry.
Then, in mid-October, we engaged the Lawrence community through the Topeka-Lawrence City Swap event, offering a chance to explore Topeka’s progress and history. The GTP’s Fall Golf Tournament received positive feedback, with Phoenix Marketing Group emerging as the winner. In late October, we held a Halloween-themed Business Unwind at Carpet One.
In late 2023, our events department was bustling as we geared up for 2024 and orchestrated unforgettable celebrations for the holiday season. In early November, our 2023 State of the Community was held at Townsite Avenue Ballroom, adorned with Topeka flag colors to mark the occasion. This informative gathering featured engaging conversations among panelists and discussions by Mayor Michael Padilla and Commission Chair Bill Riphahn about key initiatives moving the area forward.
Later that month, we marked GTP member WIBW's 70th anniversary during our November Business Unwind, which featured a special broadcast, local vendors, fun mascots, and the giveaway of a 70-inch TV. We then swiftly transitioned to organizing and putting on the 28th annual Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade, making it bigger and better than ever with help from title sponsor Giant Communications and introducing exciting additions like a Macy’s-Thanksgiving-Day-Parade style
red carpet, VIP seating, and real reindeer!
Amidst the holiday cheer, the Downtown Topeka Window Decorating Contest showcased festively adorned windows, with the public voting for best display. Our final Power Breakfast of the year was held at The Tee Box. It combined golf and great food, offering unique business insights. Finally, the year concluded with our December Business Unwind hosted by Vaerus Aviation and Schwerdt Design Group, and as always, it proved to be a member favorite! Keep an eye out for information about 2024 events you won’t want to miss.
Momentum 2027
1) Housing for All
2) Active Core & Neighborhoods
3) Arts & Recreation
A PLACE TO LIVE A PLACE TO LEARN
1) Retain & Expand
2) Launch & Develop
3) Promote & Attract
A PLACE TO PROSPER
EQUITY
A PLACE TO BELONG
CHILD CARE GRANTS SUPPORTING PROJECTS
1) Cradle Through Career
2) Access to Opportunity
MOMENTUM IN ACTION
1) Engaged & Empowered
2) Proud & Aware
3) Recruit & Retain Talent
Topeka/Shawnee County's Momentum 2027 community strategy, now a quarter of the way through, is being measured by the GTP and Momentum 2027 Executive Committee. Our Momentum 2027 Strategic Metric Tracker shows notable progress in key areas and room for improvement in others. It's important to note that Population Growth, GDP, Higher Education, and Poverty Rate indicators have a one-year lag.
Currently, four of the tracker's 10 indicators are on target, significantly surpassing expectations. These include Jobs in Shawnee County, Household Income, GDP, and Poverty Rate, all of which are trending in the right direction. Three of the 10 indicators are under caution, with Net Promoter Score suggesting a potential shortfall, wages in Shawnee County growing just over 3% but falling slightly short of the 4% target, and capital investment showing growth but at lower levels than desired. The remaining three indicator areas need improvement. While we aren't yet achieving a perfect 10/10 when it comes to metrics, the ambitious targets reflect high expectations, emphasizing our commitment to excellence and specific numerical measurements.
Child Care Capacity Accelerator Grant funds are being utilized and facility expansions are underway, as we work to add quality child care slots to our community’s care inventory. GO Topeka and Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas have been collaborating closely to stand up a website centered around creating a strong talent pipeline of child care workers to support providers in Shawnee County. A community fund is also being established to provide scholarships to parents when the cost of child care is a struggle. There will be more information to come on the website and community fund, with an opportunity for your business to become a “Champion for Child Care”! Be on the lookout for a unique educational session about how your business can further support child care in Shawnee County.
2023 Financial Data
2023 REVENUE
JEDO INCENTIVES
$971,365
SPONSORSHIPS & EVENTS
JEDO OPERATIONS
$2,974,183 MO27 CONTRIBUTIONS
$1,741,388
$815,649 OTHER
$767,768
$589,138
MEMBERSHIP DUES
$770,517
TRANSIENT GUEST TAX
$2,062,331
2023 EXPENSES
$533,650
$166,589
$1,072,629
$1,302,584
$2,966,823
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
$3,973,991
Member Anniversaries in 2023
5YEARS
Pinnacle Staffing Group
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
Wostal Realty
Aflac/Quality of Life, Inc.
Network Computer Solutions
Iron Rail Brewing
The Pennant
Automation Controls, Inc.
Moore Home Team at Keller Williams
Realty
Yvonne Guy Farmers Union Midwest Agency
KanView Glass
Jeremiah Bullfrogs Bar & Grille
Devlin’s Wine & Spirits
Shawnee County District Attorney’s Office
2 Chefs Catering
Cyrus Hotel
Society for Human Resource MgmntTopeka Chapter
10YEARS
Topeka Magazine
Lord’s Financial Planning
Meridian Roofing Solutions
The Floor Project
Sutherlands
Briggs Subaru of Topeka
Matheson Gas
Jamie Lou Hornbaker - State Farm
Sprout Creative
TGW Wealth Management
McCownGordon Construction
Stephen Smith Gallery
Housing & Credit Counseling, Inc.
Lower Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.
Brad Noller - American Family Insurance
15YEARS
Hampton Inn
Kansas Children’s Discovery Center
Brookfield Village Apartments
Qdoba Mexican Grill
2OYEARS
Schwerdt Contract Interiors, Inc
Breathe Oxygen & Medical Supply
Residence Inn by Marriott - Extended Stay
Heritage Bank
Coldwell Banker American Home
Equity Bank
Community Bank
FHLBank Topeka
KBS Constructors, Inc
Kaw Valley Bank
Whitney B. Damron, PA
Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging, Inc
Kansas Masonic Foundation, Inc
Sertoma Great Topeka Duck Race
Envista Federal Credit Union (Wanamaker)
Westside Stamp and Awards, Inc
Rebound Physical Therapy
Kessinger/Hunter & Co. - Forbes
Industrial Park LLC
Briggs Dodge
Valeo Behavioral Health Care
West Indian Hills Management, LLC
ServiceMaster Cleaning and Restoration by NEK
North Topeka Business Alliance, Inc
25YEARS
Garrison Insurance & Financial Services, Inc.
David’s Jewelers
MB Piland Advertising + Marketing
Alliance Bank
Topeka Landscape, Inc
30YEARS
Kansas Turnpike Authority
Meals On Wheels of Shawnee and Jefferson Counties, Inc.
35YEARS
Topeka Performing Arts Center
Kansas Commercial Real Estate Services Inc
40YEARS
Stormont Vail OB/GYN Lincoln Center
Hanover Pancake House
American Red Cross - Kansas Capital Area Chapter
Carpet One Floor & Home
Jetz Service Co., Inc.
Midwest Health
YWCA Northeast Kansas
45YEARS
Topeka High School
Community Action, Inc
BNSF Railway Company
Office Plus of Kansas
CoreFirst Bank & Trust
Lawyers Title Of Topeka, Inc
DL Smith Electric
Cox Communications
Topeka Public Schools, USD 501
50YEARS
Bartlett & West
Blue Cross and Blue Shield Of Kansas
Cable Dahmer of Topeka
Cumulus Media, Inc. Topeka
Hill’s Pet Nutrition,Inc./Subsidiary Colgate-Palmolive
AT&T Inc.
Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority
55
YEARS
KSNT KTKA KTMJ & NE KS CW & 24/7 Weather
• Advantage Tech, Inc
2023 New Members
• Allen Community College
• Alliance for a Healthy Kansas
• Alpha Roofing
• AO NOLA PRALINE CANDY
• Arc Branding
• ASA Strategic Funding
• Banner Mobility Resources, Inc.
• Best Enterprises LLC
• Bimini LLC
• Bluestem Creative LLC
• Brancato’s Catering
• Breezy Designs by Shirls
• BREWpay Innovative Payment Services LLC (DBA: BREWpay)
• Brookdale Topeka
• Cake Topeka LLC DBA IHOP 3793
• Carma Tires & Associates, LLC DBA Big O Tires
• Cathy Lutz with Berkshire Hathaway First Realtor
• CBD American Shaman
• City of Auburn
• Clear View, Inc.
• Coco Cares
• Compass Marketing & Advertising Partners
• Contractors Garage Topeka
• Crunch Fitness (Topeka)
• CWC Electric, LLC
• Dirty Dough Topeka
• Dohrn Transfer Company
• Eckerd Connects
• El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant
• Enterprise Truck Rental
• Epic Integrative Wellness
• Estevia Magic
• Family Eye Care of Topeka
• Fellowship Bible Church
• Financial Services
• Finelylinked
• Fit Realty
• Flat Branch Home Loans
• Fleming Place Wine and Spirits
• Forward Nutrition
• Foundations Commercial
• God’s Store House-East
• Golden Rule Design & Build
• Gray & Co. Inc.
• Great Plains Media
• H&H Designs
• Hello Garage of Kansas City
• HF Rubber Machinery, Inc
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Topeka North- Topeka Investment Group
• Hop 2 It Concrete & Remodeling
• Hutton
• JJ Enterprise DBA Sewing Shack’s Consignment Weddings, Formal & More
• Just Now Old Enough
• Kansas Bar Association
• Kansas Fencing Inc
• Kansas Medical Clinic, PA
• Kansas Pharmacists Association
• Kansas State University Innovation Partners
• KSHSAA- Kansas State High School Activities Association
• King Auto Glass
• La Creperie Co.
• La Reina’s Beauty & Spa, LLC
• La Reina’s Tequila Lounge
• LifeTech Sciences LLC
• L & T Excavating, LLC
• Levi Hamman Agency- Farm Bureau
• Little Russia Chili Parlor LLC
• Linked by AEA
• Love’s Moving Service
• Love’s Travel Stops
• M&M Golf Cars, LLC
• Michael’s Resurfacing LLC
• Mingus Leather Studio & Gifts
• Mission Church
• Mission Creek Camp & Retreat
• Nauling’s Texas BBQ and Soul Food LLC
• Norsemen Brewing Company, Lakeheim
• Oh Dough you Didn’t
• Once Upon a Party KS, LLC
• Over the Top Sandwich and Deli LLC
• Oz Alliance
• Patterson Family Infant Toddler Center
• Paydayz Staffing Solutions Inc
• Personally Yours
• Phoenix Home Care & Hospice
• Prairie Wind Hospice
• Pulito Closets
• RachPaynts
• RE/MAX EK Real Estate
• Schultz Management, LLC
• Scooter’s Coffee (North Topeka)
• Sharp Plumbing, LLC
• Shockwave Electric Inc.
• Silver Lake USD #372
• SLI
• Squeaky Clean Wheels
• St. Croix Hospice
• Step by Step Learn And Play Child Care
• Stifel
• Still Producing, LLC
• Sylvan Learning of Topeka
• Technical Applications & Consulting
• TFMComm Inc.
• The Grind Coaching & Consulting
• The Hive LLC
• The Linen Tree
• The Mix
• The Mud Room
• The Pines Apartments
• The Refinery Medical Aesthetics
• The Topeka Rodeo
• The White Linen
• Tommy Leathers District Office of Farmers Insurance
• TopCity Realty, LLC
• Top City Logistics, LLC
• Topeka BBQ Shop
• Topeka Center for Peace and Justice
• Topeka Family & Friends Juneteenth Celebration
• Topeka Pediatrics PA
• Torgeson Electric Company
• Turner Designs
• Two Wolves Studio & Artist Den
• Umbrella
• Unique Fitness & Beauty Studio, LLC
• UNITS of NE Kansas
• Vetco Total Care
• Wildcat Construction
• Wildcat Feeds, LLC
• Whayne’s Herbs & Natural Products LLC
• Woof’s Play & Stay
• 151 Entertainment
• 785 Beer Company
• 911 Walnut, Inc