UNITED WAY OF RENO COUNTY
The United Way of Reno County (UWRC) has announced that tickets and tables are now available for Spark Tank Live!, a new community event designed to empower local nonprofits with funding and visibility.
The high-energy competition is set for Thursday, Sept. 25, at the 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with finalist pitches beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a dessert reception at 8:30 p.m.
Four nonprofit organizations will take the stage to present bold, community-driven solutions in UWRC’s focus areas of youth opportunity, healthy community, financial stability, and community resiliency. More than $25,000 in funding is up for grabs, with finalists competing for awards decided by a panel of judges and audience votes.
This year’s judges include Daniel Friesen, co-founder and CIO of IdeaTek; Dr. Kay Hart of the Hutchinson Clinic; Mike King, CEO of Lumineo Sign; and Sheila Regehr, corporate affairs manager for Dillons/Kroger. Alongside the judges’ awards, audience members will vote to select a People’s Choice Award winner, which carries an additional $1,500 prize.
“This is what community change looks like in real time,” said UWRC CEO Lacey Mills. “You’ll witness powerful stories, creative pitches, and the kind of innovation that fuels long-term impact. Whether you’re a business leader, donor, or passionate community member, your presence will help make real change happen in Reno County.”
Tickets are open to the public, with options for individual seats or full tables. Reservations can be made at uwrenocounty.org/spark-tank.
The event is made possible by generous sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor ProValue Insurance, Ignition Sponsor IdeaTek, and Spark Sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, First National Bank of Hutchinson, Kraft Electric, and O₂ Box Midwest.
UWRC leaders say the evening will not only provide critical funding for nonprofits but also serve as a platform to celebrate innovation, amplify local voices, and strengthen community connections.
For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, visit uwrenocounty.org/spark-tank