By teri l. hansen

Ellsworth County I-R

It has been nearly a year since the inception of Grow Ellsworth County. From day one, the organization has been working hard for the betterment of Ellsworth and surrounding communities. While many of the goals have been attained, it hasn’t come without hard work and determination.

“Our biggest challenge has been in managing our growth and having adequate time and resources to fulfill the needs and demands of the county,” GEC Executive Director Stacie Schmidt said. “We are confident that the addition of our Assistant Director Michelle Skurkis has strengthened our team and will allow for continued growth and new ideas and opportunities.”

Schmidt has been a huge part of the integration and success of GEC, and works hard to ensure the county has all the economic support it needs.

“I consider myself a ‘lifer’ of Ellsworth,” she said. “I graduated from Ellsworth High School and have been back for 19 years. I truly found the job that I love when I was given the opportunity to become the executive director of economic development six years ago.”

Her migration to executive director of GEC began in May 2022 when Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tami McGreevy tendered her resignation and efforts were made to fill that position. Unfortunately, after an extensive search, the right person could not be found.

When it became clear it was not going to be an easy fix, the board of directors began looking outside the box. That was when the idea of a merger with another entity was suggested. Ellsworth County Economic Development seemed to be a good fit for a partner in supporting local business and area growth.

The two entities researched what the merger would entail and began the business of garnering support from county residents. They held listening sessions to educate the public and at the end of a months-long campaign, the decision was made to move forward with the combination of forces.

“When the chamber of commerce approached our board to find solutions for their changing environment, it was an opportunity for a group of strong community leaders to come together and think creatively and to streamline services,” Schmidt said. “Twenty twenty-three has been a year of learning and a year of triumph. We just published our 2023 annual report and we are proud of the accomplishments we continue to make to grow Ellsworth County.”

The organization has hit many milestones in its inaugural year. One of particular note is that of reaching more than $1 million in finance packaging for business startups, expansions and acquisitions in just three years. By comparison, this is exponential. Most communities of similar size do not see that kind of financial support.

“Grow Ellsworth County is a vibrant, energetic office dedicated to economic and community development,” Schmidt said. “We provide a wide range of personalized services to the businesses and community and have a proven track record of results. Anyone considering starting, buying, or expanding a business is encouraged to make an appointment.”

The work Grow Ellsworth County has to do isn’t lessening. Quite the contrary. They are planning more projects for the benefit of the county. The first Hometown Holiday celebration was held in December, the organization continues its work with the Youth Entrepreneurship Program. Additionally, Ellsworth County is a host location for the Big Kansas Road Trip in May along with Lincoln County and Lucas.

Events are already kicking off for the new year and the calendar is updated at https://www.growellsworthcounty. com. “The 2024 membership benefit drive will ... close on Feb. 29,” Schmidt said. “We are excited to roll out our list of robust services to our members and welcome both renewals and new members to our organization.

“Readers who want to learn more about our organization or our services are encouraged to make an appointment, visit our website or follow us on social media.”