Collaborating for Entrepreneurs
Wichita Public Library, Kan.
Innovation Synopsis
Wichita’s Advanced Learning Library has become a community sponsor of the local 1 Million Cups (1MC) initiative by providing venue space for weekly 1MC events. As the host site, the library has created a platform through which library resources, programs and services that support entrepreneurs and local small business owners can be demonstrated.
Challenge/Opportunity
Because Wichita has numerous incubators and initiatives aimed at entrepreneurs, finding the best ways to connect with and support this segment of the community was a challenge. An opportunity presented itself when the library was selected to make a 1 Million Cups presentation about its entrepreneurial services. The presentation turned into a conversation about becoming the venue for weekly meetings and has grown into use by entrepreneurs for research, space for meetings and mentoring and small business programming.
Key Elements of Innovation
Demonstrating the value of the library as a platform through which entrepreneurs could connect, collaborate, mentor and learn brought a new awareness to the importance of including libraries into the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Each week’s event now includes promotion of upcoming library programs relating to small business development or an explanation of a library resource or service that might be beneficial to attendees.
Achieved Outcomes
Hosting events has strengthened connections with entrepreneurs and small business owners already using library services and resources and has put the library onto the radar of those who were previously unaware of the benefits the library affords to individuals seeking to start or grow businesses as well as those looking to bring new ideas into the marketplace.
