‘Companies of Significance:’ Program supports innovation across Kansas, Heartland

By Pat Melgares, K-State Extension news service

March 12, 2026

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Building a stronger startup ecosystem in Kansas requires collaboration, access to capital and a statewide commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, leaders from NXTUS told participants during the recent First Friday e-call hosted by Kansas State University Extension.

The monthly online series, held March 6, featured Mary Beth Jarvis, CEO and president of NXTUS, and Connor Adler, the organization’s investment manager. The program draws dozens of participants from across Kansas each month and is designed to encourage entrepreneurship and support small business development.

Jarvis said NXTUS focuses on mobilizing early-stage growth capital for innovation-based startups and entrepreneurs.