AltCap’s NeXt Stage KC launches with one goal: More ‘Yes’ for minority entrepreneurs

LaDonna Gooden, NeXtStage KC, AltCap

Diversity is just good business, said LaDonna Gooden, emphasizing that companies with a variety of perspectives consistently outperform their competitors. “The opportunity really exists for everyone in this ecosystem to benefit and participate [in Kansas City’s startup scene],” said Gooden, entrepreneur in residence and coach for NeXt Stage KC, a program of AltCap. “I don’t…

Read More

Startup Road Trip: Student-led KU Blockchain Institute has high-tech dreams with graduation nearing 

Jack Schraad, Brad Garlinghouse, Nathan Nichols, Mason Qualls, Daniel Jones, Craig DeWitt, and Pat Thelen; Ripple and KU Blockchain Institute

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. This series is possible thanks to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, which leads a collaborative, nationwide effort to identify and remove large and small barriers to new business creation. LAWRENCE…

Read More

First look: WeWork Lightwell illuminates space for growing teams downtown (Photos)

WeWork Lightwell

Despite national headlines that question WeWork’s staying power, a second Kansas City location signals light at the end of the tunnel for the coworking giant.  “The expectation of the workforce is changing,” Erik Wullschleger, WeWork community director, explained during a Startland News tour of the newly opened space, which occupies the third and fourth floors…

Read More