GREAT BEND, Kan. — The latest session of the Entrepreneurial Mindset class, based on the book Who Owns the Ice House?, has successfully concluded, leaving participants with valuable insights and a renewed perspective on business and problem-solving.
Out of the 11 individuals who enrolled, eight received a 50% refund on their class fees for attending five or more of the six sessions. Participants ranged from current business owners and startups to professionals seeking to apply entrepreneurial thinking in their existing careers.
One of the key components of the class was weekly interviews with local entrepreneurs, where participants had the opportunity to learn firsthand from those who have navigated the challenges of starting and growing a business. These real-life insights helped students connect theory to practice, gaining valuable lessons from business owners who have successfully built their enterprises.
The final class of 2025 was joined by co-facilitator Jim Correll and Kimberly Becker, both of whom have guided participants through the program’s engaging curriculum. Their expertise has helped foster a mindset of innovation, resourcefulness, and resilience among attendees.
For many participants, the class provided not only knowledge but also the motivation to take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey. As Melinda Harter, one of the newest graduates of the ICE House program, put it: “If you want to get the ball rolling on making your dreams a reality… the Ice House class is a great place to start!”
For those eager to continue their entrepreneurial journey, Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is offering the next step—CO.STARTERS Core, a 10-week program designed to help entrepreneurs refine and launch their business ideas. The next cohort begins March 5, 2025.
What is CO.STARTERS Core?
Entrepreneurship is an exciting journey, but the path isn’t always clear. CO.STARTERS Core provides a structured, proven process that helps participants get unstuck and move forward with confidence.
Trusted by over 24,000 entrepreneurs nationwide, this program is ideal for:
- Individuals with a business idea but no clear starting point
- Creatives who want to turn a hobby into a business
- Side-hustlers looking to transition into full-time entrepreneurship
- Small business owners seeking to scale or diversify revenue streams
Throughout the course, a small cohort of 6-12 participants will work through the program in a collaborative setting, led by CO.STARTERS certified facilitators Regan Rief and Jeremy Elliott. Each session includes hands-on learning, valuable peer feedback, and expert guidance. Class fees cover all materials and dinner at each session. For more information or to register for CO.STARTERS Core, visit www.gbedinc.com/costarters.
About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development):
Our goal is to sustain our community’s long-term economic health and vitality through the retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses and development that enhance property values, increase personal income, and positively contribute to the citizens’ quality of life of Great Bend and beyond. For more information about GBED visit: www.gbedinc.com, call 620-796-2407, or email marketing@gbedinc.com.
