Reno County’s bold new push to turn small business ideas into reality

StartUp Hutch is launching two new initiatives to support low-income families and young entrepreneurs in Reno County, Kansas. The programmes aim to build skills, encourage small business ideas, and provide financial opportunities for participants. Both will run in early 2026, offering training and competition chances for locals.

The first programme, the Ice House Entrepreneurship Course, is designed for low-income individuals looking to improve their economic prospects. No prior business experience is needed to join. This eight-week certificate course will take place every Thursday from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the HCC Peel Center in Hutchinson. Classes begin on January 29 and run until March 26, 2026.

The second initiative, the Reno County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) 2026, targets young people with business ambitions. Scheduled for March 10, 2026, the event will let participants pitch their small business ideas to a panel of judges. Local business leaders will mentor them, helping refine concepts, write executive summaries, and sharpen presentation skills. Cash prizes will be awarded to the best proposals. Both programmes are part of StartUp Hutch’s effort to foster entrepreneurship in the region. While organisers have not yet named the leaders or moderators, details on registration and participation will be released soon.

The two initiatives provide clear paths for economic growth in Reno County. The Ice House course offers structured training for adults, while the YEC 2026 gives young entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their small business ideas. Both aim to create lasting opportunities for the community.