10+ Best Small Business Ideas to Start in Kansas [2023])

Discover the top small business ideas for Kansas in 2023! Unleash your entrepreneurial spirit and thrive in the heartland of America.
Newfoundr

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 07, 2024

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Hey there, budding entrepreneur! Have you been feeling that entrepreneurial itch lately? Maybe you're dreaming of being your own boss, setting your own hours, and making your mark on the world. Well, you're in the right place! Kansas, the heartland of America, is a land ripe with opportunities for small businesses. And 2023 might just be your year to shine.

We've put together a list of the top 10+ small business ideas to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey in Kansas. Whether you're a native Kansan or thinking about making the move, these ideas are sure to spark your imagination and get those creative juices flowing. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's dive into the world of possibilities that await you in the Sunflower State.

Remember, every big business starts with a small idea. So, don't be afraid to dream big and start small. Your journey to success starts here. Let's get started, shall we?

Farm-to-table Restaurant

Farm-to-table restaurants are dining establishments that source their ingredients directly from local farms or even grow their own. This concept not only ensures the freshness and quality of the food being served but also supports local farmers and promotes sustainable farming practices. Here are a few reasons why farm-to-table restaurants are a great idea:

  • Sustainability: By sourcing locally, these restaurants reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.
  • Freshness: Local sourcing means the food is fresher, often harvested within a day or two of being served. This can significantly enhance the taste and nutritional value of the dishes.
  • Supporting Local Economy: Farm-to-table restaurants contribute to the local economy by supporting local farmers and producers.
  • Seasonality: These restaurants often base their menus on what's in season, providing an ever-changing variety of dishes and encouraging customers to eat a more diverse diet.
  • Transparency: When food is sourced locally, customers can have a better understanding of where their food is coming from and how it's produced.
image of a Farm-to-table Restaurant

Specialty Crop Farming

Specialty crop farming in Kansas is an excellent idea for several reasons. Kansas's rich soil and favorable climate conditions make it ideal for growing a variety of specialty crops. This type of farming not only contributes to the state's economy but also promotes sustainability and biodiversity.

  • Economic Benefits: Specialty crop farming can provide a significant economic boost to Kansas. It can create jobs and contribute to the state's GDP. Specialty crops often fetch higher prices in the market, leading to increased income for farmers.
  • Sustainability: Specialty crops often require less water and fewer chemicals than commodity crops. This can help preserve Kansas's natural resources and reduce the impact of farming on the environment.
  • Biodiversity: Growing a variety of specialty crops can increase biodiversity, which is crucial for a healthy ecosystem. It can also improve soil health and reduce the risk of pest and disease outbreaks.
  • Local Food Supply: Specialty crop farming can enhance the local food supply and reduce reliance on imported food. This can improve food security and freshness, as well as reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food.
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Examples of successful businesses:

Kansas is home to a thriving small business community, with numerous success stories that inspire and motivate aspiring entrepreneurs. From unique retail concepts to innovative tech startups, the Sunflower State has witnessed the growth and prosperity of various small businesses. Here are some notable examples of small business ideas that have flourished in Kansas:

  • Ad Astra Coffee Roasters: This specialty coffee roastery in Wichita has gained a loyal following with its meticulously sourced and roasted beans, creating a vibrant coffee culture in the city.
  • Yoder Meats: Located in Yoder, this family-owned butcher shop has been serving high-quality meats and homemade sausages since 1982, attracting customers from across the state and beyond.
  • Fetch Bistro: A dog-friendly restaurant in Wichita that offers a unique dining experience for both humans and their furry companions, featuring a dog-friendly menu and outdoor play areas.
  • Bunker Labs: Founded in Kansas City, Bunker Labs is a non-profit organization that supports military veterans and their entrepreneurial ventures, providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
  • Pinot's Palette: With locations in Wichita and Lawrence, Pinot's Palette offers a fun and creative environment for people to unleash their inner artist while enjoying a glass of wine, making it a popular destination for social events and date nights.
  • NetWork Kansas: A statewide entrepreneurial ecosystem, NetWork Kansas provides resources, funding, and support to small businesses and startups, fostering economic development and job creation throughout the state.
  • Glacé Artisan Ice Cream: This gourmet ice cream shop in Wichita has gained a reputation for its unique and delicious flavors, using locally sourced ingredients and creative combinations to satisfy ice cream enthusiasts.
  • Garmin: Founded in Olathe, Garmin is a multinational technology company that specializes in GPS navigation and wearable technology, becoming a global leader in the industry.
  • Standard Beverage Corporation: Based in Lawrence, this family-owned wholesale distributor of alcoholic beverages has experienced steady growth and success, serving bars, restaurants, and retail establishments across Kansas.

Outdoor Adventure Company

AdventureCo is an exceptional outdoor adventure company that specializes in providing thrilling and unforgettable experiences. We cater to all types of adventurers, from beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of outdoor activities to seasoned enthusiasts seeking their next adrenaline rush.

  • Wide Range of Activities: Our company offers a wide array of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and camping. This means that there is something for everyone, regardless of their interests or experience level.
  • Experienced Guides: All our tours are led by professional guides who are well-versed in the local flora, fauna, and terrain. They ensure that all participants are safe and well-informed throughout the experience.
  • Quality Equipment: We provide top-notch equipment for all our activities, ensuring that our clients have a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Eco-friendly Practices: AdventureCo is committed to preserving the environment. We follow eco-friendly practices and encourage our clients to do the same.
  • Customizable Packages: We understand that everyone's adventure preferences are different. That's why we offer customizable packages that can be tailored to suit individual needs and preferences.

Choosing AdventureCo for your outdoor adventure needs is a great idea because we provide a unique blend of fun, safety, and environmental responsibility. With us, you can rest assured that you're in capable hands while you experience the thrill of outdoor adventure.

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Local Arts And Crafts Store

Setting up a local arts and crafts store in Kansas is a fantastic idea for several reasons. Kansas is known for its vibrant arts scene and strong community support for local businesses. This makes it an ideal location for an arts and crafts store that can cater to the needs of local artists and craft enthusiasts.

  • Community Support: Kansans are known for their strong community spirit and support for local businesses. An arts and crafts store would benefit from this community-driven atmosphere.
  • Rich Arts Scene: Kansas has a rich and vibrant arts scene. From visual arts to pottery, there is a wide range of artists who would benefit from a local store supplying their needs.
  • Local Talent: There is a wealth of local talent in Kansas. A local arts and crafts store could provide a platform for these artists and crafters to showcase and sell their work.
  • Economic Growth: Small businesses contribute significantly to the local economy. By setting up a local arts and crafts store, you would be contributing to the economic growth of Kansas.
  • Tourist Attraction: Unique local stores can act as a tourist attraction. Visitors to Kansas would be interested in buying locally made arts and crafts as souvenirs.

Wind Energy Consultancy

Establishing a wind energy consultancy in Kansas can be a highly beneficial venture due to the state's unique geographical and environmental conditions. Kansas is known for its vast plains and consistently high wind speeds, making it an ideal location for harnessing wind energy. Moreover, the state's commitment to renewable energy sources and sustainability further enhances its suitability for such a venture.

  • Abundant Wind Resource: Kansas is ranked among the top states in the U.S. for wind energy potential. This makes it an excellent location for a wind energy consultancy to provide expert advice and services.
  • State Support: Kansas has shown a strong commitment to renewable energy, with policies and incentives that support the development and use of wind energy. A consultancy in this field could help businesses and individuals navigate these incentives and regulations.
  • Economic Opportunity: The wind energy sector in Kansas is growing rapidly, creating numerous job opportunities and economic growth. A consultancy could play a pivotal role in this growth by providing necessary expertise and guidance.
  • Environmental Impact: Wind energy is a clean, renewable energy source that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A consultancy in this field could help Kansas continue to reduce its environmental impact.

Related business ideas:

Rural Real Estate Agency

A Rural real estate agency in Kansas is an excellent idea for several reasons. Kansas, with its expansive landscapes and agricultural opportunities, offers a unique market for real estate. A rural real estate agency can cater to a niche market that understands the specific needs and preferences of rural property buyers and sellers.

  • Agricultural Opportunities: Kansas is known for its vast agricultural lands. A rural real estate agency can help clients find the perfect farmland or ranch.
  • Niche Market: By focusing on rural properties, the agency can cater to a specific market that is often overlooked by other real estate agencies.
  • Local Knowledge: Being based in Kansas, the agency will have an in-depth understanding of the local market, climate, and community, allowing them to provide tailored advice to clients.
  • Lower Competition: As many real estate agencies focus on urban areas, a rural real estate agency in Kansas may face less competition, potentially leading to a more successful business.
  • Unique Properties: Rural properties often come with unique features like large acreages, outbuildings, or access to natural resources. An agency specializing in rural real estate will be better equipped to market these properties effectively.

Local Food Delivery Service

Local food delivery services in Kansas offer a convenient and efficient way for residents to enjoy a variety of meals from their favorite local restaurants right at their doorstep. This is especially beneficial for those who may not have the time or means to dine out. Below are some reasons why a local food delivery service in Kansas is a good idea:

  • Convenience: Customers can order food from the comfort of their homes or offices, saving time and energy that would have been spent on travel.
  • Variety: With a local food delivery service, customers have access to a wide range of food options from different restaurants, catering to various dietary preferences and needs.
  • Support local businesses: By choosing local food delivery services, customers are indirectly supporting local restaurants and businesses, contributing to the local economy.
  • Job creation: Such services create job opportunities for delivery personnel, customer service representatives, and more, thus helping reduce unemployment rates.
  • Accessibility: For the elderly, disabled, or those without transportation, a local food delivery service provides an essential service, allowing them easy access to meals.

Custom Furniture Business

A Custom furniture business in Kansas is a great idea for several reasons. Kansas, known for its vast plains and beautiful landscapes, has a thriving community that appreciates quality craftsmanship and unique designs. This makes it a perfect location for a business that provides custom-made furniture.

  • High Demand: There is a high demand for custom furniture in Kansas. People are looking for unique, high-quality pieces that reflect their personal style and taste.
  • Skilled Craftsmen: Kansas is home to many skilled craftsmen who can create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture. This talent pool can provide a steady supply of high-quality products for the business.
  • Local Materials: Kansas has a wealth of local materials that can be used in furniture making. This not only reduces production costs but also gives the furniture a unique, local flavor that customers will appreciate.
  • Supportive Community: The community in Kansas is known for supporting local businesses. This can provide a stable customer base for the business.
  • Economic Growth: Kansas has been experiencing steady economic growth, which means more people have disposable income to spend on high-quality, custom-made furniture.

Agricultural Consultancy

Agricultural consultancy in Kansas is a good idea for several reasons:

  • Rich Agricultural History: Kansas has a rich history in agriculture, making it a suitable location for an agricultural consultancy. The state is known for producing wheat, corn, soybeans, and sorghum.
  • High Demand: With the high number of farms and agricultural activities in Kansas, there is a high demand for agricultural consultancy services. These services can help farmers improve their yield, manage their resources more efficiently, and stay updated with the latest agricultural technologies and practices.
  • Support from Government: The state government of Kansas supports the agricultural sector with various policies and initiatives. An agricultural consultancy can take advantage of these supportive policies to grow and expand.
  • Research Opportunities: Kansas has several universities and research institutions that focus on agriculture. These institutions can provide valuable insights and collaboration opportunities for an agricultural consultancy.
  • Access to Markets: Kansas is centrally located in the U.S, providing easy access to both eastern and western markets. This location can help an agricultural consultancy serve a wide range of clients.

Home-based Childcare Services

Home-based childcare services in Kansas offer numerous benefits to both parents and children. These services provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, while also offering convenience and peace of mind for parents. They are an excellent alternative to traditional daycare centers.

  • Home-based childcare services in Kansas provide personalized care. With fewer children than a daycare center, your child will receive more individual attention.
  • These services often have flexible hours, which is great for parents with non-traditional work schedules.
  • Children in home-based childcare services are typically exposed to fewer illnesses, as there are fewer children than in a traditional daycare setting.
  • Home-based childcare services can provide a more comfortable, home-like environment for your child. This can help them feel more secure and relaxed.
  • Many home-based childcare providers in Kansas are licensed and have received training in early childhood development, ensuring your child is in capable hands.

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