Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce release
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Attention Veterans and Active Duty Military: Ready to Launch Your Next Mission?
Turn the discipline, leadership, and determination gained in service into a successful business venture. The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Veteran EPiC (Entrepreneur Pitch Challenge). This educational program and event are explicitly created for veterans and active-duty military members to help them achieve their business goals in the civilian world.
Junction City and Geary County are home to a remarkable veteran and military community — making up nearly 20% of the local population, almost three times the national average of 6.1%. This extensive veteran community is the backbone of our local economy.
Fort Riley, home to the 1st Infantry Division, had a direct economic impact of over $2 billion in fiscal 2024, with an indirect boost that propelled the region by more than $4.5 billion. This powerful economic force underscores why supporting our heroes is essential as they transition to civilian life and embark on new entrepreneurial journeys.
Your Pathway to Entrepreneurial Success
Over the next few months, you'll have the opportunity to sharpen your business acumen through four engaging classes:
● March 27, 2025: Introduction to Business taught by Frank Choriego
● April 3, 2025: Marketing Essentials taught by Frank Choriego
● April 10, 2025: Finance and HR taught by Cindy N. Robison, CPB
● April 17, 2025: Wrap-Up and Pitch Preparation taught by Michele Weigand
Each session is crafted to equip you with the tools and confidence you need to develop a solid business idea. Plus, attend all four classes, and you'll receive half of your $200 registration back—a little bonus for your commitment!
Meet Your Teachers
Cindy N. Robison, CPB
Founder and owner of CNR Consulting LLC, Cindy Robison, has 25 years of experience in accounting and finance. As a specialist in strategic analytics and compliance-focused financial management, she helps businesses streamline operations for growth. With degrees from Baylor University and Arizona State University (Summa Cum Laude), she holds multiple financial certifications, including Certified Public Bookkeeper, QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor and Public Bookkeeper, and a notary public with the State of Kansas, no. 1157457.
Michele Weigand
A seasoned business strategist, Michele Weigand has over 30 years of experience in finance, business development, and investment. As the former Principal of Enterprise Transformation at the Kansas City National Security Campus, she evaluated high-impact business opportunities. She has held executive roles in venture capital and corporate finance, including as CFO and COO of the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation. Weigand now advises startups on investment strategy and pitch development.
Frank Choriego
Frank Choriego is a business executive with expertise in corporate leadership, economic development, and entrepreneurship. He has led strategic transitions for major companies, including Cargill Meat Solutions and an industrial manufacturing firm acquired by a Canadian conglomerate. He has also driven regional economic initiatives as a consultant and was a former Associate Director of WSU’s Business Development Center. He is now a Managing Partner at Compass ICT LLC and teaches entrepreneurship at Friends University.
The Veteran Pitch Presentation
Mark your calendar for May 8, 2025, and join us for an exciting evening at the historic CL Hoover Opera House from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. This event will allow veteran entrepreneurs to showcase their hard work as they present their business ideas to a panel of experienced judges.
Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you're competing or cheering on the participants. Come support local veterans, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and watch as our local veterans compete for a chance to win $6,000 in prize money.
Proud Sponsors and Partners
This event is hosted by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce (including the Economic Development Commission and Military Affairs Council) and sponsored by the Flint Hills Veterpreneur Foundation, Junction City 1st, Junction City Main Street, and NetWork Kansas. Together, we're committed to empowering you with the knowledge, connections, and opportunities needed to succeed.
Join Us!
Your service has been extraordinary; it's time to build something extraordinary in return. Embrace this chance to learn, network, and launch your business idea with the full backing of a community that values your contributions.
For more details and to register, visit our website (www.jcacc.org/vet-epic) or contact the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce.