Funding

Meet 5 new startups bolstering KC innovation (now with a funding boost from Digital Sandbox)

By Tommy Felts / January 8, 2025

Just-announced funding for a handful of fresh tech ventures is expected to help Kansas City founders who already are poised to make a significant impact in their industries, from health care to government to education. Digital Sandbox KC has accepted five new startups into its program. Each is expected to receive up to $20,000 in…

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Golftech startup raises $675K seed round, swinging for franchise expansion and commercial tech launch

By Tommy Felts / December 4, 2024

A Lenexa-based tech company focused on accelerating skills for avid golfers hit a funding milestone this week, announcing a seed round meant to bridge the gap between on-course and off-course play through its innovative physical and digital solutions. Albatross Golf — which boasts two flagship offerings: GolfTRK and Noonan — on Tuesday shared news of…

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Just funded: KCMO unveils $200K in grants for nearly two dozen restaurants, bars, coffee shops

By Tommy Felts / December 3, 2024

Kansas City has an “enormous appetite” for outdoor dining, said Wes Rogers, highlighting the growing need for city leaders to be responsive to evolving industry and small business trends — and championing KCMO’s new outdoor dining grants program. Officials on Tuesday announced 20 inaugural recipients of the Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant. It’s an initiative —…

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Black Ambition fund’s $50K gives KC healthech startup the ‘jet fuel we need to propel into 2025’ 

By Tommy Felts / November 22, 2024

An initiative led by musician-turned-philanthropist Pharrell Williams to help close the opportunity and wealth gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs has selected Kansas City-based AskSAMIE for its latest cohort of funding, training and mentorship. Through the just-announced Black Ambition cohort, 30 founders are receiving awards between $25,000 and $1 million, totalling $2.7 million. AskSAMIE earned…

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It’s sweet victory for Brown Suga; KC’s favorite cookie crew wins AltCap Your Biz (and a $25K treat)

By Tommy Felts / November 21, 2024

After winning the $25,000 grand prize at Wednesday’s AltCap Your Biz pitch competition, Brown Suga will get some cookie-shaped new wheels, shared founder Ebony Paul. Before opening a brick-and-mortar in Olathe, the cookie bakery launched in 2020 selling at pop-ups and community events. Adding a food truck will help Brown Suga continue to hit the…

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