Listen: KC immigrant entrepreneurs share their stories
February 23, 2017 | Meghan LeVota
In light of recent news, Startland News focused this month’s Innovation Exchange on the intersection of immigration and entrepreneurship.
U.S. immigration policy has a profound impact not only on society but also the nation’s entrepreneurial vibrancy, which prompted a discussion including a researcher and policy expert, a local immigration attorney and pair of immigrant entrepreneurs.
If you weren’t able to make it to the event, we’ve clipped together the important parts you missed. In the conversation we hear personal stories from Kansas City immigrant entrepreneurs about how they arrived in the United States, explore how the H-1B Visa works and jump into the impact that immigrant entrepreneurs have on the nation’s economy.
Hope you enjoy!
Featured Business

2017 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Her airport debut is an early success; now Chef LaRonda LaNear is extending Safi Fresh’s runway with new Crossroads location
Changing your lifestyle can start with what you put on your plate, said LaRonda LaNear. “Safi Fresh is all about educating people on the benefits and importance of eating clean. I’ve helped a lot of people lose weight and wean themselves off medication through changing their diet. I’m excited to do that on a larger…
Arrowhead event: Teams are stronger with women; How the NFL is moving the ball forward
While nighttime NFL Draft festivities at Union Station put the focus on male athletes chosen to play professional football, Friday morning at Arrowhead Stadium was all about spotlighting women changing the landscape of the NFL and Kansas City. “As we talk about champions today, this is what we’re talking about: Women and men, moving the…
End-of-life care platform wins top UMKC prize in young startup’s first-ever pitch competition
Serving as someone’s informal caregiver is a rewarding experience, but the pressure of being fully responsible for taking care of a loved one can take a toll on a person physically and mentally, acknowledged Nicole Staab and Rachel Blankenship. Through their startup, Rings of Care KC, they are providing support and resources for informal caregivers…
Brewkery closing its North KC kombucha taproom as ‘Lucky Elixir’ production heats up
Five years after opening its popular North Kansas City hot spot, the Brewkery — home of Lucky Elixir Kombucha — is moving and closing its taproom, co-founder Amy Goldman shared. With its lease about to end and rent increasing substantially, Goldman said, the move makes sense for the growing kombucha business. Although it’s bittersweet to…
