181 Ag Supply Receives Funding for Business Development

A Sylvan Grove business is among five recipients of the Kansas Department of Commerce JumpStart Kansas Entrepreneur Program.

The program provides $5,000 grants to encourage business growth while enhancing the entrepreneurial spirit throughout the state.

“These entrepreneurs, and the communities that support them, are vital to the health and growth of our state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” Steve Radley, president and chief executive officer of NetWork Kansas, said. “Each of these companies exhibit characteristics of innovation, growth and local impact.”

The Lincoln County business, 181 Ag Supply, was awarded the grant earlier this month to assist with further growth and development. The local business provides agricultural supplies directly to farmers, including feed and vaccines for animals and fertilizer, chemical and seed for crops and pet food.

To qualify for funding, the NetWork Kansas award recipients had to meet certain criteria, including operating in a rural or distressed urban area and using a NetWork Kansas loan or venture program.

“We’re excited to infuse capital into businesses in rural communities as well as urban areas with distressed populations,” Stan Ahlerich, a KDOC economist, said. “These funds will kickstart new businesses and help accelerate the growth of other businesses that are critical for community vitality.”