Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop Recognized as a 2022 Existing Business of the Year

Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop of Topeka, Kansas, has been recognized as the 2022 Existing Business of the Year for the Kansas SBDC at Washburn University.

Owner Alicia VanWalleghem opened Leaping Llamas in 2016, focused on building and fostering relationships within her community that would allow local artists to succeed and grow the art scene in Topeka.

VanWalleghem worked with the Kansas SBDC for startup assistance, and marketing and business growth strategies, giving her the opportunity to not only realize her dream of opening Leaping Llamas but to kick start a global art collection that would showcase the creative process of artists around the world.

“I have utilized the Kansas SBDC throughout the entire tenure of Leaping Llamas, and the consistency is what stands out to me,” said VanWalleghem. “Whatever your issue may be, they are there to either walk you through it or find the resources for you with a quick turnaround time.”

The Kansas Small Business Development Center will recognize Leaping Llamas’ accomplishments at a future, locally-hosted event.