mySidewalk partners with the White House on its open data initiative
October 10, 2016 | Meghan LeVota
Editor’s note: In response to readers’ desire for quick-hitting stories, Startland News is launching a new segment, “News Flash,” to enable more coverage. Let us know what you think!
Kansas City tech firm mySidewalk is working with the White House.
The firm on Friday announced its participation in The Opportunity Project, an initiative that will use open data in efforts to expand opportunity for all.
The project was established in March to put data tools in the hands of civic leaders across the country. The mission is to make it easier for leaders to navigate information on critical resources such as access to jobs, housing, transportation and schools.
Twelve pilot cities were chosen for the project, including Kansas City, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Francisco and Washington.
mySidewalk CEO Nick Bowden and chief operating officer Stephen Hardy are taking on projects from the Department of Transportation and the Office of the Surgeon General. With the DOT, mySidewalk will focus on connecting community leaders with transportation information. With the OSG, the platform will equip parents and community leaders with tools to measure emotional well-being.
Founded in 2010, mySidewalk created a data tool that allows communities to easily access relevant statistics by location — and even compare to other communities. Working with municipalities, elected officials, education groups and more, the platform aims to engage communities to share ideas and stay informed of new initiatives. The company has raised $23.2 million and in 2013 acquired VoterTide for an undisclosed amount.
2016 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Top 10 remaining GEW events: Midwest funding, women startup leaders, social media marketing
Nearing the midpoint of Global Entrepreneurship Week, snowy weather turned to sunny skies — welcoming entrepreneurs and curious citizens alike to a wide range of activities rounding out the week. Wednesday is expected to feature some of the week’s most popular workshops and panels, according to KCSourceLink data, with three of the leading events running…
VIDEO: Education startups earn $60K in LEANLAB grants at revamped Launch[ED] Day
The work doesn’t end with LEANLAB Education’s Launch[ED] Day celebration, said Katie Boody. Four of the accelerator’s fellows will continue their startups’ research thanks to $60,000 in grant investments. The entrepreneur-led education ventures took the stage Thursday to pitch their companies to the Launch[ED] crowd at Plexpod Westport Commons, as well as to describe the…
VIDEO: Kritiq designs more emotional KC runway show with Goodwill crossover
When the Kritiq fashion show returns to the runway later this month, it will be an event styled with creativity and an intimate feel, said Mark Launiu, noting a new partnership with Goodwill stores across Kansas and Missouri. “For me, I grew up shopping at Goodwill, my family still shops at Goodwill, so it kind…
Against the grain: Coworking leader bringing alcohol-free ‘Sans Bar’ pop-up concept to KC
Entrepreneur events should focus less on alcohol, and more on connections, said Melissa Saubers. “Part of my goal is to help educate and bring awareness to people who are hosting events — and also have alcohol in the workplace — to help them be more sensitive and inclusive for people who don’t drink,” said Saubers,…