By: Westwood Media Group
Bringing Business Education to Springfield with Energy and Community
In Springfield, Missouri, a business event called Ascend is creating a fresh approach to entrepreneurship and leadership education. Designed to feel like a live show rather than a typical seminar, Ascend combines entertainment with practical business insights. This event focuses on making business learning accessible and welcoming to people at various stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
The Origins and Mission of Ascend
Ascend was started by Springfield native Kyle Gardner, who aimed to foster open and genuine conversations about business challenges and growth. Alongside his colleagues Blake and Dmytro, Kyle helped grow Ascend into Project Future First, a nonprofit that promotes approachable and community-driven business education.
The event is offered free of charge, with the only requirement being an RSVP. This policy intends to reduce obstacles that sometimes prevent people from exploring entrepreneurship or leadership development.
A Unique Format Designed to Connect
Each Ascend event lasts about two hours and follows a format that encourages both networking and storytelling. The first hour focuses on networking, welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere that includes a red carpet entrance, live DJ music, lighting effects, and light refreshments. This setting aims to create a relaxed environment where attendees feel comfortable starting conversations, which can be especially helpful for those new to networking.
Following networking, the main program features three business owners sharing their stories for about 20 minutes each. Unlike traditional business talks, these presentations avoid scripted pitches or slide decks. Instead, speakers share candid, personal experiences about building their businesses. These stories provide attendees with real-world perspectives on entrepreneurship.
Personal Stories That Resonate
As an example, a recent speaker, owner of a cookie dough shop., shared his journey from homelessness in his teens to becoming a bakery business owner. His candid narrative, including his early work in real estate, demonstrated the types of authentic stories Ascend promotes. Attendees often find value in hearing unpolished stories because they reflect real challenges and lessons, rather than idealized success.
Production Quality Meets Purpose
Ascend is notable for its production elements that differentiate it from conventional business events. Lighting transitions, curated soundtracks, and thoughtful stage design create an engaging atmosphere. Occasional pyro effects and the energized crowd contribute to an immersive experience. Despite these show elements, the focus remains on connection rather than spectacle.
Importantly, the event does not include sales pitches or product promotions. The Ascend team emphasizes an open-minded approach to learning and interaction as the event’s core principle.
Diverse Voices Reflecting the Business Community
Speakers at Ascend come from a variety of industries, including fitness, real estate, food, fashion, and digital marketing. This variety broadens attendees’ views of what entrepreneurship and success can look like, offering inspiration to people from many backgrounds and career stages.
The event has attracted a diverse group of attendees, from students and young professionals to entrepreneurs and individuals considering a career shift. This mix fosters rich conversations and networking opportunities beyond the event itself.
Community Impact and Ongoing Growth
Ascend has developed into more than just an event; it serves as a gathering point for Springfield’s entrepreneurial community. The combination of accessibility, engaging format, and real-life stories makes it a valued space for those curious about leadership and business growth.
Many attendees highlight that the most memorable aspect of Ascend is the connections and conversations that happen after the formal presentations. These interactions often spark new ideas and collaborations that continue beyond the event.
Learn More and Get Involved
Ascend offers a fresh model of business education that balances entertainment with meaningful content. Those interested in attending or learning more about upcoming events can visit Project Future First’s website at projectfuturefirst.com/events.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided by Project Future First and publicly available sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, some details regarding the event format and participant experiences are based on reported accounts and may not be independently verified. Readers should consider this information as an overview rather than a guarantee of specific outcomes.
Published by Art B.
