‘Rise Up, Get Started’ shifts to matching grant program for formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs

Kyle J. Benson-Smith, Rise Up, Get Started, Determination, Incorporated

Rather than continue as an entrepreneurship competition for formerly incarcerated people, “Rise Up, Get Started” is pivoting to a matching grant program that supports more individuals seeking a new path through small business, said Kyle J. Benson-Smith.  “I was inspired by hearing the stories of second chance entrepreneurs from folks who were starting successful businesses…

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How one artisan chocolatier rewrote the recipe for her life — and molded a new, more approachable luxury chocolate

Jessica Washburn, Bliss Chocolatier

A Blue Springs-dipped chocolate shop isn’t just selling show-stopping sweets, it’s unwrapping a community-coated adventure for a local mom — eight years in the making.  “I feel more a part of this community than I ever have before,” said Jessica Washburn, co-owner of Bliss Chocolatier, an artisan chocolate boutique dedicated to crafting a number of treats…

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