SUNFLOWER ELECTRIC
NORTON–For many years, Sunflower Electric has supported rural development efforts in central and western Kansas by serving as a resource partner for the region. Resource partners are organizations that support the efforts of community and business programs through volunteerism, financial resources, knowledge and expertise. This level of commitment to communities can be found in many areas throughout Sunflower’s service territory, and we are always thrilled when new resource partners enhance the ability to serve our communities.
A new organization based in Norton has been formed to foster economic development and innovation with the intent to reverse the population decline within 26 northwest Kansas
counties, including Ellis County.
Initially funded by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan,the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc. (NWKEICI) will gauge its success by the health of businesses and communities it serves and the ability of families and individuals to move back to the region to seize opportunities that may not exist at present, according to Scott Sproul, CEO and president.
During the organization’s first months of operation, one-on-one meetings throughout the region, organizational presentations and strategic business meetings have helped the organization assess the needs of businesses and communities.
“The number one issue we see is ‘How do we access the skilled labor or talent pool to add value to an existing company or community?’ We also see the great need for succession planning of businesses in the near future,” Sproul said.
To address those concerns, NWKEICI is developing new programs. To help businesses find
qualified employees, the Career and Business Pipeline is being developed.
NWKEICI is also developing a program to help communities integrate their community leaders into powerful programs relating to business mentorship and a business concierge concept.
In addition, a media package that includes a strong web and social media presence will be available soon.
Sproul, a Norton native, is optimistic about northwest Kansas’ economic future. “The fact that all other regions of the Midwest compete over the talent pool that is grown and educated here in northwest Kansas is inspiring. It is up to us to bridge the gap of available needs with potential resources. I view this as challenging, not impossible. I’m up for the challenge but know that I can’t do it alone. Knowing good, hardworking individuals who live in northwest Kansas and believe the same thing that I do makes it easier and more inspiring to keep doing what I’m doing.”
The mission of the NWKEICI aligns well with rural development efforts Sunflower has supported for many years. Having another partner in the area so passionate about rural Kansas will only benefit the communities we both serve.