Fund Me, KC: Bow Blast KC soft combat offers adrenaline-pumping fun
December 21, 2017 | Startland Staff
Editor’s note: Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. If you or your startup is running a crowdfunding campaign, let us know by contacting news@startlandnews.com.
Who are you?
My name is Jason McCarthy, Owner of Bow Blast KC.
What’s your product?
We are a mix of dodgeball, Call of Duty and paintball — all using bows and arrows along with other soft weapons.
How much do you hope to raise?
$5,000
What do you plan to use the funds for?
We plan to use the funds to build our indoor arena so we can be open to the public 24/7.
How’d this idea come about?
At the age of 18, I was teaching my own Martial Arts classes. I started McCarthy Martial Arts in hopes that I could live out my dreams as a Martial Arts Instructor and pass on my knowledge to my children. However, in January of 2015, I was injured on the job and my neck was broken.
I was told by the doctor and my surgeon that I will never be able to do Martial Arts again and it crushed me! With five children and no job, I was lost and broken. While healing and redirecting my life, I decided to find any sport or activity that I could do with my kids and to stay active.
I found Archery Attack, an Australia-based company that is gradually growing more popular and is all ages friendly. I connected with the owner and bought my first set of equipment. At first, we weren’t sure if it would take off, but as we worked and played we found a following and I found a new lease on life! I am active and am able to have fun with my kids again.
We can’t wait to share our fun with the world!
How are you differentiating your campaign?
We are giving away a free party to one lucky donation.
Is there anything quirky about your campaign?
We use fun and sports to bring in our players.
Any advice on crowdfunding?
Launching a funding campaign is not easy, but with the right thought and a strong conviction, and a belief in what your doing, anything can happen.

2017 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Fashion show designs space for KC streetwear to walk alongside Western fringe, crochet couture
The Kritiq fashion show is a runway of representation, said Mark Launiu, describing the origins and evolution of one of Kansas City’s premiere creative showcases. “I just wanted to see people that looked like me, designers who don’t have the opportunity to showcase their skills and their talents,” The Kritiq founder and co-founder of MADE…
C2FO awards grants to three KC nonprofits boosting Black entrepreneurs with intention
A new grants program developed by one of Kansas City’s biggest scaleups was founded with a clear purpose, said Jay Lott, announcing the effort’s first three nonprofit recipients and touting C2FO’s ongoing commitment to community engagement within the Kansas City region. “We want to support the nonprofit organizations that are focused on intentionally elevating Black…
Grit Road plants $11M venture fund to cultivate homegrown ag tech solutions across Midwest
Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro. OMAHA — The precision guide for Grit Road Partners — a Nebraska-based venture fund — is investing in ag tech companies that are solving Midwest producer problems, said Mike Jung,…
KC nonprofit wants to change the face of tech (without leaving its students in debt)
Editor’s note: The following story was sponsored by Resiliency at Work 2.0 Career and Technical Education, a Kansas City-based organization focused on creating and increasing equitable opportunities through education and training for careers in the technically skilled workforce. Dr. Joy Vann-Hamilton set out to close the diversity gap in the tech workforce; her work through…
