“I took JCE 101 last winter, about a year into running Paleo Prairie, and the class gave me both the local contacts and the practical knowledge I needed at exactly the right stage. I met a ton of great people- fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, folks plugged into the Junction City business community and walked away with connections I still rely on today. Highly recommend it to any new or early-stage business owner in the area looking to learn the ropes and build a real network.”

Ian Compton, Owner, Paleo Prairie

“One of the most valuable parts of JCE 101 was the opportunity to learn directly from local professionals. The conversations with attorneys and accountants helped answer questions I didn’t even know to ask and gave me confidence as I navigated the startup process. It’s a tremendous resource for anyone considering starting or growing a business.”

Makena Krause, Co-Owner, Flint & Vine

Ian Compton, Owner of Paleo Prairie

Owners of Flint & Vine at Ribbon Cutting and First Dollar Presentation.

The Junction City Entrepreneur (JCE) Program was launched in 2023 with support from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation to provide aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners with practical tools, resources, and connections. Over the past three years, the program has helped participants explore business ownership, strengthen their skills, and take steps toward launching or growing their ventures.

As the program continues to evolve, Junction City Main Street is refocusing JCE on supporting economic growth, encouraging investment, and helping entrepreneurs contribute to a vibrant downtown and community. Whether you’re exploring a new business idea, preparing to open your doors, or looking to expand an existing venture, JCE offers opportunities to learn from local experts, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and move your goals forward.

JCE 101 is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and new business owners, while JCE 201 focuses on helping existing businesses and property owners continue to grow and thrive.

JCE 101 is BACK and better than ever!

We’re excited to relaunch JCE 101 with a renewed Main Street focus and a mission to help fill vacancies in our downtown district. This year’s program is designed to support entrepreneurs who are ready to bring fresh ideas, energy, and essential services to Downtown Junction City.

While anyone is welcome to participate and build their entrepreneurial skills, please note that all prize funding and service packages will prioritize participants who choose to locate their business downtown—especially those that meet specific community needs.

Who Should Apply?

To qualify for the program, participants must:

Be located within Junction City or Geary County
Be in the idea stage or currently operating a home-based business
Be interested in opening in Downtown Junction City (not mandatory, but strongly encouraged and preferred for prize eligibility)

JCE 101 is designed to help you learn, grow, and take your next big step—whether that’s building a business plan, exploring commercial space, or launching your storefront in the heart of our community.

The cost to participate is $150, due prior to the start of the program. Participants who fulfill all program requirements—attendance at the foundational class and workshop, Pitch Night, and the Awards Celebration—will receive a $100 reimbursement upon completion.

2026 JCE 101Class Schedule

Click here for full class schedule

Saturday, January 31, 2026
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Foundational Class Session-
A full-day, hands-on learning experience covering business basics, market research, financial readiness, and downtown-focused opportunities.

Saturday, February 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Workshop + Downtown Field Trip
A practical work session followed by guided visits to available storefronts, key partner locations, and behind-the-scenes downtown insights.

Thursday, February 12, 2026
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Pitch Night
Participants present their business concepts to a panel of judges, community members, and supporters.

Tuesday, February 17, 2026
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Awards Celebration
Final awards, service packages, and prize announcements for qualifying participants.

Registration for JCE 101 is now closed.

JCE 201 will be hosted later in the year and will be geared towards our current business and building owners!

2026 JCE Information

JCE 101 is BACK and better than ever!

Who Should Apply?

The cost to participate is $150, due prior to the start of the program. Participants who fulfill all program requirements—attendance at the foundational class and workshop, Pitch Night, and the Awards Celebration—will receive a $100 reimbursement upon completion.

2026 JCE 101Class Schedule

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