K-State Accelerator program awards $35,000 to entrepreneurs

Seven Kansas businesses were awarded funding upon completion of the eight-week Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship Accelerator program.

By Megan Ronnebaum

College of Business Administration

Kansas State University has given seven local entrepreneurs a boost in resources and funding through the Center for Entrepreneurship Accelerator program, which provides participants with faculty-led courses, hands-on student research teams and access to an extensive alumni mentor network.

Each of the seven companies also received a grant of $5,000 in equity-free funding upon completion of the program.

Designed to foster innovation and business growth, the Accelerator program features a curriculum developed by K-State faculty that explores key topics, including strategy and competitive positioning. The content offers entrepreneurs practical, actionable insights to strengthen their businesses.

"The Accelerator allows us to share our unique resources with the broader entrepreneurial community," said Chad Jackson, Jack Vanier director of the university's Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship. "Our faculty, alumni mentors and students are incredible resources, and we are excited to share their expertise to support startup ventures."

Participants worked with student consulting teams to address challenges unique to each venture. These teams contributed expertise in targeted areas, helping entrepreneurs refine operations and pursue growth opportunities.

Entrepreneurs were also paired with alumni and local business leaders who offered personalized advice and mentorship, providing support tailored to each participant's experiences and business goals.

K-State Accelerator participants get real-world resources, support

Jim Huber and Jason Holzer, co-founders of 4D Leaders, said the program was transformational.

"The K-State Accelerator provided the structure, mentorship and accountability we needed to validate our solution in real-world settings and build a scalable, impact-driven business model," the cofounders said. "Thanks to the faculty-led workshops, personalized mentor feedback and insights from the student consulting team, we sharpened every aspect of our venture. Most importantly, we leave the program with greater clarity, confidence and conviction in our mission. We're incredibly grateful to the K-State Accelerator for empowering founders like us to bring meaningful ideas to life."

The following startups participated in the 2025 Accelerator program:

• 4D Leaders; Jim Huber and Jason Holzer, Olathe
• Big Hands; Darian Massey, senior in wildlife and outdoor enterprise management, Manhattan
• Custom Nano; Amie Norton, assistant research professor, Manhattan
• dScribe AI; Jordan Mryyan, Cole Robertson, Warren Wang, Overland Park
• Hunt Family Candy Co; Eric Hunt, Clay Center
• Pink Skies Boutique; Jenna Curry, student in entrepreneurship, Iola
• Rebound Jerseys; Aidan Scurato, Mission Hills

Applications open for fall 2025 Accelerator

Kansas entrepreneurs and early-stage startups now have the opportunity to apply for the fall 2025 Accelerator program.

Applications are open to both aspiring and established founders of scalable, for-profit ventures, including student-led businesses. Selection criteria include identifying a meaningful problem and innovative solution, demonstrating drive and adaptability, and showing strong commitment to the venture.

Visit the Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship's website for more information and to apply.

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