The City of Lawrence plays a central role in local economic development and is a key funding partner of CORE, alongside the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, KU Innovation Park, and the KU Small Business Development Center. City leadership helps shape policies, incentives, and community investments that make it easier to start and grow a business in Lawrence.

The Kansas Department of Commerce leads statewide economic development initiatives, incentives, and entrepreneurial support programs. Their work includes grants, innovation funding, workforce development, and business recruitment strategies that strengthen the environment for both early-stage and growth-stage companies.

Douglas County supports regional economic development through funding and strategic partnerships. The County provides financial support to the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, KU Innovation Park, and the KU Small Business Development Center, helping ensure these organizations can serve local entrepreneurs and businesses

The Hill Fund is a venture capital fund that invests in scalable, high-growth Kansas startups—particularly those emerging from KU-related research, innovation, and founder networks. The fund provides capital and connections to help companies advance toward major commercial and fundraising milestones.

GrowKS supports Kansas entrepreneurs by providing technical assistance, research-backed growth programming, and development resources. Their work helps companies increase revenues, expand operations, and scale more effectively through statewide collaboration.

CORE supports entrepreneurs across industries and stages through education, programming, mentor and expert networks, peer community, and training opportunities.


CORE works to reduce silos by building collaborative relationships with all ecosystem partners—an essential step in moving our regional economy forward. We also help policymakers at every level better understand the real needs of entrepreneurs and encourage greater collaboration and performance-based measurement of ecosystem outcomes.

KU Innovation Park provides high-tech companies with access to specialized facilities, lab space, technical resources, and a supportive environment for research-driven commercial development. They help bring university innovations to market and attract companies that generate high-wage jobs in the region.

The KU SBDC offers no-cost advising, financial guidance, and support for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Their consultants assist with business planning, financial projections, marketing strategies, and key operational needs.

The Chamber supports local businesses through advocacy, networking, professional development, and community leadership. They help strengthen the local business climate and represent business interests at the local and state levels.

Network Kansas builds statewide pathways for entrepreneurs to access capital, mentorship, and educational programs. Their E-Community partnerships—including the Douglas County and Lawrence Metro E-Communities—provide locally controlled loan funds and support for new and growing businesses.