For Immediate Release
Media Contact
Erik Pedersen
President and Chief Operating Officer
Network Kansas
epedersen@networkkansas.com
Topeka, KS — May 28, 2025 — Network Kansas is proud to announce that Omni Circle Group has been selected as the new host organization for the Shawnee Startups eCommunity, ushering in a new chapter of inclusive entrepreneurship and collaborative ecosystem building in Shawnee County.
Originally launched in 2016, the Shawnee Startups eCommunity has approved 34 eCommunity/GrowKS loans totaling $1.34 million and 8 Empower loans totaling approximately $95,000, actively fueling small business growth across the county. The eCommunity has also played a strong role in youth entrepreneurship through the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) and has expanded its support through programs like FastTrac and the Emerge Community Business Academy.
Omni Circle’s leadership as host organization reflects their mission to unite, empower, and accelerate inclusive economic development. Under the direction of Michael Odupitan, Omni Circle brings a proven commitment to collaboration and equity, working closely with a wide range of partners including Go Topeka, Washburn SBDC, Network Kansas, the City of Topeka, the Kansas Department of Commerce, and a growing network of mentors, funders, and support organizations.
“We are honored that Omni Circle will serve as the host organization for the Shawnee Startups eCommunity,” said Odupitan. “This is an exciting opportunity to lead in a way that reflects the core of our mission. Our focus will be on ecosystem building, business growth, and capital readiness—with special attention to economic equity and access.”
Omni Circle’s headquarters, including its Launch Pad coworking space, will serve as a hub for eCommunity activity and entrepreneur engagement. Programming such as Access Lounge, CEO Circle, Growth Wheel coaching, and capital readiness efforts will be leveraged to provide a clear and inclusive pathway for businesses to launch and grow. Stephanie Moran, CEO of Go Topeka, is excited about the implications for the small business ecosystem.
“Go Topeka’s partnership with Omni Circle to support early-stage entrepreneurs is an important part of the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem we are building in Topeka and Shawnee County. Designating Omni Circle as the host for the Shawnee Startups eCommunity consolidates access to resources for our entrepreneurs, especially those in the early stages of development. Building out the “places” for entrepreneurs and innovators such as Omni Circle and Link Innovation Labs opening in January 2026 provide the physical community space for entrepreneurs and innovators of all levels to create, connect and collaborate.”
Erik Pedersen, President and COO of Network Kansas, expressed confidence in the transition:
“I am very excited that Michael Odupitan and the Omni Circle staff will be the host organization for Shawnee Startups eCommunity. The collaborative workspace, especially the second-floor Launch Pad, can act as a great convener for the initiatives to fuel all Topeka early and mid-stage entrepreneurs.”
Omni Circle’s approach will continue to prioritize shared leadership with long-standing community partners. A critical part of this transition is the continued involvement of Gary Satter of Glacial Hills RC&D, who played a key role in sustaining momentum during leadership transitions and will remain as Chair of the Financial Review Board.
“We are deeply grateful for Gary’s steady leadership,” added Odupitan. “His commitment kept the eCommunity progressing during a pivotal time, and we’re honored to carry that work forward.” This next phase of Shawnee Startups marks a renewed commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Shawnee County – one that values collaboration, honors legacy, and looks boldly toward the future.
This next phase of Shawnee Startups marks a renewed commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Shawnee County – one that values collaboration, honors legacy, and looks boldly toward the future.
