Each organization provides our community with unique benefits. Here are the Top 5 Things They Do for Great Bend:
WHAT WE DO
Promote Great Bend to Entice Visitors, Attend Trade Shows and Promote Area for Visitors:
-
We operate to the State as the Great Bend Designated Marketing Organization (DMO) – Promote Our Area Attractions to Entice Visitors. Provide Information Bags, Nametags, Event Information, and Support.
-
Collaborate with the State of Kansas as a Travel Information Center – Brochures, Information.
-
Run the Great Bend Events Center - Focus and Bid on Conferences, Reunions, Weddings & Events That Bring Overnight Visitors to Great Bend.
01
Convention & Visitors
Bureau
-
Create City Sponsored Festivals and retail events.
-
Provide Free Retail Meetings Every Other Month for Businesses.
-
-
Assist the City of Great Bend with getting out information and news to the Citizens of Great Bend (Public Information Officer)
-
Promote the activities and Happenings of Great Bend.
-
Community Calendar/Answer Questions/Show Citizens all there is to do!
-
Billboards & Local TV Station
-
02
Community Coordinator
Business recruitment and expansion
-
Incentive Packages
-
Updated Area Data and Statistics
Workforce support
-
Recruiting Initiatives
-
Annual Job Fair/Business Expo
-
Central Kansas Jobs Online Hiring Platform
-
Childcare Initiative
-
Apprenticeships
Entrepreneurship development and support
-
Funding
-
Learning Opportunities
-
Mentorship
-
IGNITE Rural Business (Shark Tank style) Competition
Downtown Development
-
Loft Grant
-
Downtown Beautification Initiatives
Community Development/Quality of Life
-
Fridays on Forest
-
Main Street Organization
03
Economic Development
Advocacy for Business
-
Pints & Politics
-
Legislative Forums
-
Chamber Blue of Kansas
Community Marketing and Promotion
-
Annual Awards (Business of the Year, Citizen of the Year, NextGen Leader, Legacy)
-
Community Events Calendar
-
Community Tours
Investment in Our Future
-
Kids Ag Day
-
Barton County Young Professionals
Chamber Member Services
-
Digital & Printed Membership Directory
-
Gift Certificates
-
Member News: Outlook Business Journal & Weekly Email Update
-
Chamber Coffees, Ribbon Cuttings & Ground Breakings
-
Networking Events
-
Educational Workshops
-
Leadership Roundtables
04
Chamber of Commerce
Our goal is to provide the citizens of Great Bend an informational hub and a place to get their questions answered.
APPROACH
Meet the Leaders
THE TEAM:
President of Economic Development
Sara Arnberger
President, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
Megan Barfield
CVB Director/Community Coordinator
Christina Hayes
You're probably
wondering
FAQ
-
What is Economic Development?Economic Development refers to the initiatives and activities aimed at improving the economic well-being and quality of life in a community through job creation, business attraction, and overall economic growth.
-
How does Economic Development benefit a community?Economic Development can lead to increased job opportunities, higher income levels, improved infrastructure, and a better overall standard of living for residents.
-
What role does the government play in Economic Development?Governments often play a crucial role in Economic Development by implementing policies, providing incentives, and creating a business-friendly environment to attract investment and foster economic growth.
-
How can businesses get involved in Economic Development?Businesses can contribute to Economic Development by participating in local partnerships, supporting workforce development initiatives, and engaging in sustainable practices that benefit the community.