We’re excited to bring Facebook Community Boost to Topeka, Kansas this week for two action-packed days of free events and activities at the Capitol Plaza Hotel (1717 SW Topeka Boulevard). Kansas is home to more than 250,000 small businesses, which make up over 99% of all companies in the Sunflower State. Topeka is working hard to develop homegrown talent, grow a diverse economy, and foster a strong, collaborative community through its Momentum 2022 Initiative.

At Facebook, we’ve pledged to train 1 million people across the country by 2020 and couldn’t be more proud to work with our local partners here in Topeka to help make it happen. We’re investing $1 billion in small business initiatives this year.

When we spoke to the Kansas small business community about what are important factors when hiring employees, 8 in 10 (80%) said an individual’s digital skills were important. More than 7 in 10 (71%) said that Facebook is essential for their business. More than 6 in 10 (61%) say that it has helped them hire additional employees and nearly 8 in 10 (79%) say that Facebook allows them to reach more customers outside their city, state, and country.

We recognize that the future of work is changing and designed Facebook Community Boost specifically to help small businesses and individuals increase their digital skills to compete in the new economy. Our exciting lineup includes classes on best practices for marketing, online privacy, community leadership, and much more. Whether you’re a first-time user looking to create an online presence for your business, or a seasoned veteran of the Facebook platform, we’ve got something to give you a boost.

We hope you’ll join us today and tomorrow. Register for free or stay up to date with the latest city announcements, news and program schedules at facebook.com/communityboost.