Kansas’ Thunder Struck Inc., Expands Thanks to EDA Revolving Loan Fund Program

Thunder Struck, Inc. needed a large facility to expand its business – and they found it in Abilene, Kansas, in the former Duckwall-Alco Corporate offices and warehouse. The business started operating at the new location in October 2015.

In January 1991, EDA awarded a $500,000 Economic Adjustment Assistance grant to the North Central Regional Planning Commission (NCRPC) for the purpose of establishing a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) in Cloud, Dickinson, Ellsworth, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchel, Ottawa, Republic and Washington Counties in Kansas. It is through this Revolving Loan Fund that NCRPC was able to lend to Thunder Struck, Inc. the funds necessary to expand their business. Other financial partners that participated in this business expansion include Central National Bank, NCK Rural Business Development Initiative Loan Program, NCK Business Development Loan Fund, and investment by the owners.

The business manufactures heavy-duty grille guards, front-end replacements, and rear bumpers for full size and heavy-duty pickup models. Products are marked through the business’ website and through an extensive dealer network primarily located in the Central and North Central United States. The business also offers a line of products for fire and rescue equipment. Thunder Struck, Inc. incorporated in January 2008 and began production in March 2008.

The expansion resulted in more than a 500% increase in available manufacturing space. In addition, there is now room for on-site sandblasting and power coating – a job that previously had to be outsourced due to space constraints. The business now has 22 employees.

The project was made possible with funding from Central National Bank NCRPC Revolving Loan Fund, NCK Rural Business Development Initiative Loan Program, NCK Business Development Loan Fund, and investment by the owners. For more information about the business, go to www.thunderstruckbumpers.com.