June 27, 2024 | Stories
South Broadway, a once-thriving corridor, has faced many challenges over the years. To revitalize south-central (SoCe) Wichita, the Wichita Foundation activated the ImpactICT Fund and partnered with the Neighboring Movement.
With a $416,500 impact investment loan, the Neighboring Movement’s SoCe Economic Development Group has acquired property to spearhead their vision for SoCe Corner – a self-sustaining commercial hub.
“We believe that this corridor is an extension of downtown,” said WF Chief Strategy Officer Courtney Bengtson. “Our impact investment loan will kick-start immediate renovations to attract tenants and generate revenue, helping to revive the neighborhood’s spirit.”
The project is set to bring not just physical renovations but also social and economic revitalization. Plans for SoCe include a coffee shop, added retail space and refreshed apartments by late 2025.
In a Wichita Business Journal article, Neighboring Movement’s Executive Director Adam Barlow-Thompson said, “The goal is that this is going to work on its own and actually have a return and be an economic driver for the neighborhood.”
So far, $2.1 million in social impact loans from the Wichita Foundation have been infused in our community. These funds have helped Empower purchase the Empower Nomar Center, supported The Garages in their retail incubator program expansion, and more. ImpactICT continues to address emerging needs in Wichita, fueling growth and vibrancy.
