Pipeline doubles-down on diverse voices: Meet its new class of Pathfinder entrepreneurs

Programs built to support emerging founders who are primed to break through — despite entering entrepreneurship from a different starting point — have never been more needed, said Melissa Vincent, announcing the newest class of Pipeline Pathfinders.

“In today’s climate, programs like Pathfinder are not just valuable — they’re essential,” said Vincent, CEO of Pipeline Entrepreneurs, and the founder of its sister program, Pipeline Pathfinder, which targets support to early-stage founders from underserved Midwest communities who often face systemic barriers to access, resources, and funding that their peers might not encounter. 

“And while we use terms like ‘underserved’ or “underrepresented,’ it’s important to be clear: these founders are not under anything,” she emphasized, noting the founder-first program focuses on women, minority or rural entrepreneurs. “They are strong, resilient, and incredibly talented entrepreneurs who simply haven’t had the same level of access to resources and opportunities as others.” 

The Pipeline Entrepreneurs network on Friday released its 2025 roster of Pipeline Pathfinders — 14 entrepreneurs leading emerging ventures, but who are still working a full-time job in addition to having their own startup. The initiative provides a resource-driven pathway to later joining Pipeline’s full fellowship.

Click here to meet members of the 2025 Pipeline Fellowship, which also was announced Friday and includes two Pathfinders from the 2024 cohort.

“When there’s growing pressure to scale back on programs like this, it’s even more critical that we double down on our commitment,” Vincent said. “Pathfinder provides these entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and networks they need to succeed, but more importantly, it sends a clear message: their ideas, businesses, and voices matter.” 

“Supporting these founders isn’t just about equity — it’s about strengthening the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem and ensuring innovation is driven by diverse experiences and perspectives,” she continued.

2025 Pipeline Pathfinders: Richard Dixson, Dixson Media Technologies; Alejandro Sabillón, Jardín; Elysia Chao, Worktern; Antionette Redmond, Neuru; Elise Kwenin, Advanced Care Academy; Terrance Gaddy Jr., TEG Management Group; Racquel Rodriquez, El Cafe Cubano; Sarah Ohrt, Disohrted Vintage; Kelly Van Ert, Empower Independence Company; Krystal Martin, K&K Co. Bath & Home Collection; and Claudia Munoz-Najar, Build Mas

The 2025 Pipeline Pathfinder class includes:

• Elysia Chao, Worktern (Overland Park, Kansas)
• Romy Carlson, ask ANNIE (Overland Park, Kansas)
• Krystal Martin, K&K Co. Bath & Home Collection (Columbia, Missouri)
• Antionette Redmond, Neuru (Kansas City, Missouri)
• Claudia Munoz-Najar, Build Mas (Omaha, Nebraska)
• Richard Dixson, Dixson Media Technologies (Liberty, Missouri)
• Racquel Rodriquez, El Cafe Cubano (Kansas City, Missouri)
• Alejandro Sabillón, Jardín (Lawrence, Kansas)
• Elise Kwenin, Advanced Care Academy (Kansas City, Missouri)
• Sarah Ohrt, Disohrted Vintage (Omaha, Nebraska)
• Terrance Gaddy Jr., TEG Management Group dba Bath & Kitchen Refinishing St. Louis
• Kelly Van Ert, Empower Independence Company (Bemidji, Minnesota)
• Kent Campbell, Quantum Qool (Omaha, Nebraska)

2025 Pipeline Fellows: Matt Williams, Albatross Golf; Gonzalo Erdozain, Scout; Kalin Baca, Icorium Engineering Company; Frankie Elder-Reedy, Wrax; Jessica Queen, Omedus; Mark Josey, Kansas City Pioneers; Jonathan Gregory, EzBizPortal; LaToya Sirls, Someday Beauty; Donnie Hampton, Roz; Steven Coen, SaRA Health; Learie Hercules, Heft IQ; Danny Moran, Advoteck; and Craig Mason, Raise Health

Orientation for the new class of Pathfinders officially began Jan. 30 with a big public reveal set for the Pipeline’s Innovators Gala on Feb. 28 at Union Station. Members of the Pathfinder program — which launched its first recruitment campaign in fall 2021 — will come face-to-face with past participants, as well as hundreds of Pipeline Entrepreneur members who joined the network as fellows over the past 18 years.

Click here for tickets to the Pipeline Innovators Gala, using the access code “STARTLAND.”

“The Innovators Gala is like the Emmys for entrepreneurs — a night to celebrate the grit and resilience it takes to build a company,” Vincent said. “It’s not just about successes, but about honoring the tough moments that define the journey.”

In addition to showcasing new members of the Pipeline Fellowship and Pathfinder program, the network plans to award a number of member awards, including the coveted “Innovator of the Year” honor.

From the archives: Pipeline gala salutes ‘thriving, ever-evolving’ Midwest startup scene boosted by its fellows

“We’re also recognizing the other incredible entrepreneurial support organizations and foundations that help Kansas City’s ecosystem thrive,” Vincent said. “It’s truly a celebration of the entire community.