By: Westwood Media Group

A Space for Learning and Connection in Springfield

In Springfield, Missouri, a growing initiative called Ascend offers an accessible platform for individuals interested in entrepreneurship and personal development. This free business event encourages community members to gather, share knowledge, and build connections in a relaxed and supportive environment. Designed to break down barriers often found in traditional conferences, Ascend offers educational opportunities without the burden of high costs or intense pressure.

Ascend is hosted by Project Future First, a nonprofit founded by Springfield resident Kyle Gardner and his collaborators Blake and Dmytro. The event takes place every few months and welcomes local business owners, professionals, and individuals exploring new business ideas or seeking inspiration. Attendance is free, with an RSVP being the only requirement.

Removing Barriers to Business Education

The origin of Ascend was rooted in a straightforward question: how can practical business knowledge be made accessible to a wider audience? Many individuals face financial or logistical obstacles that prevent them from participating in business education programs. Ascend aims to provide a solution by offering a high-quality learning experience at no cost.

Each Ascend event lasts about two hours and follows a simple, yet effective format. The first hour is dedicated to open networking, where attendees can connect informally. The setting includes light refreshments and live music from a local DJ, creating a welcoming and casual atmosphere. This networking opportunity allows people to form relationships without the formalities often present in conventional business gatherings.

The second hour features a series of talks from local or regional business owners. These speakers share their personal journeys, covering topics such as starting a business, overcoming challenges, and learning from setbacks. Their stories are relatable and grounded in real-world experiences, making the lessons relevant for attendees at any stage of their business journey.

Real Stories from Local Entrepreneurs

Ascend emphasizes stories from everyday entrepreneurs rather than high-profile executives. This approach helps demystify the entrepreneurial process and offers practical insights. As an example, one recent speaker shared his experience growing up, including a period of homelessness, before becoming a business owner and licensed realtor in Springfield. His story resonated with the audience due to its honesty and openness.

The variety of speakers reflects Ascend’s commitment to diversity in business experiences. Past presenters have come from industries such as fitness, real estate, marketing, and food service. This range of perspectives helps attendees gain a broader understanding of entrepreneurship and leadership in different contexts.

A Focus on Substance Over Spectacle

Although Ascend includes production elements like lighting, music transitions, and stage design, the event avoids turning into a sales platform or promotional venue. The primary focus remains on learning and sharing knowledge. Organizers want attendees to leave with thoughtful insights and new ideas rather than feeling pressured by marketing messages or commercial pitches.

This focus on substance is one of the defining features of Ascend. By prioritizing real conversations and practical lessons, the event supports the ongoing development of the local business community in Springfield.

Supporting Springfield’s Growing Business Community

As Springfield grows, initiatives like Ascend contribute to a broader ecosystem of support for entrepreneurs and professionals. The event creates opportunities for people to build confidence, expand their networks, and explore new possibilities in business and personal growth. While not a comprehensive solution to all challenges in entrepreneurship, Ascend provides a meaningful step toward greater access to education and community connection.

The event’s organizers maintain that Ascend is just one part of a larger learning journey. It invites attendees to reflect on their experiences and consider different perspectives, which can be valuable as they pursue their own goals.

How to Attend Ascend

Those interested in attending Ascend can find more information and upcoming event dates on the Project Future First website at projectfuturefirst.com/events. The event is free and open to the public, with only an RSVP needed to reserve a spot.

Disclaimer: The information provided about Ascend and Project Future First is for educational and informational purposes only. Attendance at the Ascend event does not guarantee business success or specific outcomes. All business decisions should be made based on individual research and professional advice.