Bruce Ankeny comes from a long line of entrepreneurs in the Blue Earth area. His grandfather started the first Ankeny Enterprise during the Great Depression. Since then, each generation has kept the entrepreneurial spirit alive in their own way, from selling chickens to operating a roller-skating rink. Today, Bruce is in a situation all too common in small towns across America. He has a thriving business. However, his kids have their own careers in different communities and Bruce is nearing retirement age. Who will take over his legacy? How can the community of Blue Earth step up to ensure this local gem does not disappear?
During a recent REV community meeting, this story was echoed numerous times. There are many thriving businesses that are in a stage of transition and new leadership is needed. Beyond this, those attending the meeting raved about the quality of life in Blue Earth, and about the generosity and investment these local businesses make daily that has transformed their community into a home. The Core Team of the local REV initiative is taking this challenge head on by working with the local and regional schools so students know there are opportunities here at home in Blue Earth and in rural America. They are educating entrepreneurs about the resources available and are finding mentors to help those who wish to make a change, whether it be to start a business or to grow their existing business to new heights.
The REV program is about more than keeping businesses open and growing. It’s about preserving the entrepreneurial spirit of southern Minnesota and allowing all our neighbors the chance to live their dream and create their own legacy, just as Bruce’s family has done for over 100 years.
