Junction City, KS — Through a strong collaborative effort among local partners, Junction City/Geary County is preparing to send a large group of businesses and community coordinators to Jon Schallert’s Destination Business BootCamp®, taking place May 19–21, 2026.
Registration for local participants has been made possible through the support of Network Kansas, allowing Junction City/Geary County businesses to take part in this nationally recognized program at little cost to them.
Destination Business BootCamp® is a one-of-a-kind, intensive training experience designed to help independent businesses and communities transform into consumer destinations. Led by Jon Schallert, the 2½-day program focuses on a proven 14-step strategy that teaches participants how to attract high-value customers, generate media attention, and build long-term profitability.
Participants will gain practical tools to strengthen their businesses, expand their market reach beyond local audiences, and implement strategies that drive sustained growth. Just as importantly, sending a large group of local participants creates an opportunity for shared learning and collaboration—amplifying the overall impact within the Junction City community.
Businesses and organizations participating in this year’s BootCamp include: Acorns Resort, Bites LLC, By Yurii's Pizza, Flint & Vine, Highwind Brewing, Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, Junction City Main Street, The Nail Professor, Notable, Rea of Sunshine, Scouting America, Squid Syndicate, and The Spot Karaoke.
“This opportunity is about building momentum for our entrepreneurs and giving them the resources to think bigger,” said Jordan McCann, Executive Director of Junction City Main Street. “When our small businesses grow, they drive foot traffic, increase local spending, and help shape a stronger, more resilient community.”
“We’re very appreciative of Network Kansas, specifically Erik Pedersen, President & COO and Janet Miller, Rural Entrepreneurship Manager, for their continued support and for making it possible for Junction City/Geary County to send such a strong group of businesses to Destination BootCamp,” said Mickey Fornaro-Dean. “Opportunities like this don’t happen without that level of partnership.
“We’re glad to see the collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, and our partners to make this possible, and we’re looking forward to what comes out of it—new ideas, stronger positioning for our small businesses, and real opportunities for growth within our community.”
“This is exactly the kind of investment that strengthens our community from the inside out,” said Terry Butler, President of the Main Street Board. “Equipping our businesses with new tools and strategies ensures they’re not just surviving, but growing and creating lasting impact in our community.”
The coordinated effort reflects a broader commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and strengthening the local economy. By investing in both individual businesses and collective growth, Junction City/Geary County continues to position itself as a community focused on innovation, collaboration, and long-term success.
For More Information:
Destination Business BootCamp®: Destination Business BootCamp®