KIC Closes Doors as Private Sector Takes Over

KETCHUM, Idaho – Networking connections were made, educational events were taught, and the community collaborated cohesively at the Ketchum Innovation Center (KIC). With a solid entrepreneurial spirit alive in Ketchum, KIC will be officially closing its doors on April 3rd, when its lease comes to an end. A multitude of factors led to this decision, but overall KIC is proud to be ending on a positive note.

“It has been a pleasure serving our community and meeting so many talented people,” said Christy Anna Gerber, executive director of KIC. “We have so many incredible professionals in our area and it was amazing to see people come together to network, support each other, spark creativity, and innovate collectively to make our local economy more diverse and robust.”

During Gerber’s time as Executive Director, KIC opened its 6th Street doors for locals to collaborate, work, learn, and support local movements and non-profits. KIC held over 60 free events and staff members held over 270 one-on-one consultative meetings with entrepreneurs. KIC facilitated connections that led to successful working relationships amongst valley locals including web developers, marketing professionals and investors who were able to take local businesses and entrepreneurs to the next level. KIC is proud to have supported local businesses and organizations such as Sawtooth Brewery, Sun Valley Hydration, Sun Valley Records, Piedaho, Nardagani, and the Wood River Valley Studio Tour by providing consultation, resources, education, and connections.

Several factors led to the decision to close KIC, with the most important being a stronger economy than when KIC began. Local businesses and entrepreneurs have filled many of the voids KIC previously occupied such as co-working space, educational events and networking opportunities. In addition, people now have access to a wide variety of educational programs as a result of the growth in online courses and programs.

“I am sad to see KIC close its doors as it’s shown itself to be a great connector throughout the valley. I am happy to see that private operators have stepped in to provide the spaces and services that KIC had originated,” said Ketchum Mayor Neil Bradshaw. “It is now time to allocate public dollars towards infrastructure and other municipal services that will support our residents, businesses and visitors. I want to thank Christy Anna for her leadership and thank all the volunteers, mentors and participants for their contribution towards KIC’s accomplishments over the last 6 years.”