By: Westwood Media Group
In Springfield, Missouri, a different kind of business event is quietly growing—one that’s open to everyone, available at no cost, and built on the idea that business education should be accessible, engaging, and rooted in real stories.
It’s called Ascend—a two-hour event held quarterly that mixes business learning with community connection and a touch of live-show atmosphere. It’s not about big names or big promises. It’s about real people sharing real experiences.
Ascend began with a simple goal. Springfield native Kyle Gardner wanted to create a space where people could come together to learn about business in a way that felt inviting rather than intimidating. With the support of his friends Blake and Dmytro, that idea evolved into Project Future First, a nonprofit dedicated to helping reduce barriers to business and leadership education.
Today, Ascend continues to reflect those roots. It’s open for attendance—no tickets or upsells, only an RSVP is requested. The goal is to bring people together to share ideas, connect, and grow.
Each event starts with an hour of open networking. There’s music from a live DJ, light refreshments, and a welcoming space that encourages conversation. Attendees walk in on a red carpet—not for glamour’s sake, but to create a vibe that’s inviting, friendly, and inclusive whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience.
This isn’t networking in the traditional sense. There’s no pressure to “pitch” or perform. It’s more about starting conversations—between students, business owners, creatives, and anyone curious about growth. The relaxed environment often helps break the ice.
After the networking hour, the focus shifts to the stage. Three speakers, usually local or regional business owners, each take 20 minutes to share their journey. These talks aren’t overly polished or rehearsed—they’re honest reflections on how the speakers got started, what challenges they faced, and what helped them keep going.
What makes Ascend different. The speakers don’t talk at the audience—they talk to them. There’s no script, no theory, and no one-size-fits-all advice. Just lessons from experience, shared in a way that’s meant to provide useful insights and encouragement.
Visually, the event has its own style. There’s music between speakers, lighting effects to set the tone, and occasional creative production elements that help make it feel more like an experience than a lecture. These touches don’t overshadow the message—they help make it stick.
But even with its lively atmosphere, Ascend stays grounded in its purpose. It’s not a platform for selling or self-promotion. The team behind it is clear: the event exists to serve the community, not to market to it. The aim is to create a space where people can learn something new, meet someone they didn’t know before, or leave with a bit of clarity they didn’t walk in with.
Speakers come from a range of industries—real estate, fitness, food, marketing, and more. This variety shows that business can look different for everyone, and there’s no single path to success. For attendees, that often opens the door to possibilities they hadn’t considered before.
While Springfield might not be known for big business expos or major conferences, Ascend serves a specific role in the community. It’s small by design, focused on quality over scale, and powered by people who care about lifting others up.
For anyone in Springfield who’s curious about business, leadership, or just wants to connect with others in a meaningful way, Ascend offers an easy way to get started. It’s welcoming, engaging, and accessible.
To learn more or RSVP for the next event, visit projectfuturefirst.com/event.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently and consider their own circumstances before participating in any events or engaging with the organization mentioned. The content does not constitute professional advice, endorsement, or guarantee of specific outcomes.
Published by Jeremy S.
