Genesis Receives Grant to Launch Ignite SEI Small Business Conference

Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 7:18 AM

By Travis Thayer @eagle993

The conference is planned for April 2027 in Madison

(Southeast Indiana) - Genesis: Pathways to Success has been awarded a $40,000 grant through the Indiana Economic Development Corporation's Community Collaboration Fund.

The funding will support Ignite SEI: Fuel the Small Business Spark, a new regional conference designed to strengthen entrepreneurship and small business growth across Southeastern Indiana.

Ignite SEI will bring together entrepreneurs, small business owners, startups, community leaders, and resource partners from across different counties for a day of networking. The conference will focus on the unique opportunities and challenges facing rural businesses.

Scheduled to take place in Madison, Indiana, Ignite SEI will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, peer networking opportunities, a regional resource hub, and interactive experiences designed to inspire action and foster long-term business success.

Registration is expected to open in late 2026, with the conference planned for April 2027.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation for believing in the vision of Ignite SEI and investing in rural entrepreneurship," said Lori Rennekamp, Entrepreneurial Program Coordinator for Genesis: Pathways to Success. "As a former small business owner, I experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to find the right resources, build meaningful connections, and even know where to turn for help. Ignite SEI was created to help fill those gaps by creating opportunities for inspiration, practical learning, and meaningful connections for entrepreneurs across Southeastern Indiana. I believe our region is strongest when our counties collaborate, learn from one another, and celebrate each other's successes. My hope is that every attendee leaves energized, connected, and equipped with practical tools, meaningful relationships, and renewed confidence to grow their business and strengthen our regional economy."