Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center
The Northwest Kansas Innovation Center is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors, Eric Brown and Luke Mahin. Both bring extensive experience in economic development, business leadership and community engagement to the organization.
Eric Brown joins the board with more than 15 years of experience in economic development, leadership, board management and consulting. A native of Brewster, Brown previously served as President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, where he represented more than 800 businesses and organizations. He currently serves as Northern Kansas Business Development Manager for Hutton, working with private owners, municipalities, institutions and nonprofits across the state to bring design and construction projects to life. Brown holds a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Fort Hays State University and a master’s degree in business administration from Kansas Wesleyan University. He and his wife, Danielle, live in Salina with their two children.
Luke Mahin, a native of Courtland, also joins the board, bringing a strong background in local economic development and entrepreneurship. Mahin is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a degree in communication studies and previously served as the Republic County Economic Development Director for eight years. He currently owns and operates Irrigation Ales, a microbrewery in Courtland that he opened with his wife, Jennifer, in 2022. Mahin is actively involved in his community, serving on the board of directors for both Kansas Sampler Foundation and previously on the Republic County Community Foundation. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, gravel biking and spending time with his wife and newborn son.
“We are excited to welcome Eric and Luke to the board,” said Scott Sproul, president and CEO of the Northwest Kansas Innovation Center. “Both bring valuable perspectives and a deep commitment to strengthening rural communities. Their leadership and experience will help guide our work as we continue to support businesses, workforce development and community growth across Northwest Kansas.”
The Northwest Kansas Innovation Center works to strengthen communities and support economic growth through programs focused on workforce, childcare, housing and business services. To learn more, visit nwkeici.org.