Posts by Tommy Felts
Five KC startups find home, validation in Techstars 2021 class; Up next: new markets
Joining the latest class of Techstars Kansas City is expected to help startups like afloat scale what’s worked in Kansas City into other markets, said Sarah-Allen Preston, founder of a KC gift-sending app that connects users’ social circles, communities, and businesses. “Being selected for Techstars is a great validation for afloat’s momentum after a year…
Read MoreMax Kaniger, Kanbe’s Markets named ‘changemaker’ by Triscuit, earning $50K grant
A Kansas City nonprofit leader is among the inaugural “changemakers” selected for a $50,000 grant as part of Triscuit’s $1 million commitment to its Missing Ingredients Project. Maxfield Kaniger, CEO and founder of Kanbe’s Markets, was announced for the honor Tuesday with funds expected to support Kanbe’s unique and innovative community-based micro market program, which…
Read MoreFund Me, KC: It’s more than a card game; Parkville woman channels inner Philosopher to evolve humanity
Startland News is continuing its “Fund Me, KC” series to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses or lend a helping hand to others. This is an opportunity for business owners — like Parkville creator Loni Louise Bernard with her Philosopher game — to share their crowdfunding stories and potentially gain backing from new…
Read MoreGive Black campaign for Black-run businesses, orgs eyes $80K goal by Juneteenth
Editor’s note: Give Black and Kansas City GIFT are non-financial partners of Startland, the parent organization of Startland News. This story was produced independently by Startland News’ non-profit newsroom. A newly launched campaign intended to back Black-owned businesses needs widespread community support to make the most impact, Brandon Calloway said, shedding light on why eight…
Read MoreKC’s only Black-owned book shop — forced to find a new home — hits crowdfunding goal in just a few days
More than 3,000 books and records surrounded Willa Robinson as her eyes danced between decades of knowledge and culture gathered in her neighborhood shop, Willa’s Books and Vinyl — the only Black-owned brick-and-mortar book store in Kansas City. “Opening a store hadn’t been in my plans. I’m a collector, but then collecting got out of…
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