By FHSU University Communications
HAYS, Kan. – The Kansas Small Business Development Center (Kansas SBDC) network demonstrated strong statewide impact in 2025, helping Kansas entrepreneurs start businesses, create and retain jobs, and strengthen local economies through hands-on advising, training, and access to capital.
Between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, the Kansas SBDC supported 2,583 small businesses through one-on-one advising and reached more than 4,100 Kansans through 281 training events. These efforts translated into measurable economic outcomes across urban and rural communities statewide.
2025 Kansas SBDC Impact Highlights:
- 205 new Kansas businesses started
- 1,067 jobs created
- 5,657 jobs retained
- $38.9 million in small business loans facilitated
- $15.0 million in equity capital secured
- More than $411 million in gross revenue reported by assisted businesses
- 2,272 clients served in underserved communities
In total, Kansas SBDC assistance helped small businesses access nearly $54 million in capital, providing entrepreneurs with the resources needed to start, grow, and sustain their operations.
“These numbers represent more than economic output, they reflect real Kansas businesses, real jobs, and real communities strengthened by smart investment in small business support,” said Dan Lara, State Director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center. “The Kansas SBDC delivers a strong return on investment by helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions, access capital responsibly, and build businesses that contribute to long-term economic stability across our state.”
Kansas SBDC advisors provide no-cost, confidential consulting to small business owners at every stage — from idea development and startup to growth, succession planning, and capital readiness. Services are delivered through a statewide network of centers and outreach locations, ensuring access for entrepreneurs in rural, urban, and underserved communities.
“The 2025 impact report highlights the essential role the Kansas SBDC plays in driving Kansas’ economy. Facilitating nearly $54 million in capital and supporting the retention of more than 5,000 jobs is a testament to the power of this statewide partnership,” said Tisa Mason, President of Fort Hays State University. “We are honored to serve as the host institution for this network, working alongside dedicated partners across the state, to ensure small business owners have the guidance they need to succeed.”
The U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Kansas, funding partners, and community stakeholders play a critical role in sustaining this impact by supporting programs that strengthen Kansas’ small business ecosystem.
For more information about Kansas SBDC services and statewide impact, visit www.kansassbdc.net. To view a copy of the Kansas SBDC’s annual report, visit www.kansassbdc.net/2025impact.
About the Kansas Small Business Development Center
The Kansas Small Business Development Center network is a statewide, inter-institutional program to enhance economic growth in Kansas by providing no-cost management, marketing, and technical assistance to small businesses. Headquartered at Fort Hays State University with several regional centers located throughout the state, our mission is to empower entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed. To learn more about Kansas SBDC services or to connect with an advisor, visit www.kansassbdc.net.
The Kansas SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
