Funding

Deadlines loom for funding, educational and fellowship opportunities

Opportunities abound, Kansas City. Whether you’re an early stage entrepreneur looking for some extra cash, representing an organization aiming to double down on its efforts, or someone seeking mentorship, the Kansas City entrepreneurial community has options available — if you take the initiative. To lend a hand, we’ve gathered some timely opportunities. Act quickly! Deadlines are…

OYO Fitness flexes muscles internationally after $1M in US crowdfunding

The pressure isn’t letting up for OYO Fitness. With nearly $1 million in sales via crowdfunding already banked, the Kansas City-based fitness firm hopes to add more muscle to its brand by expanding into Asia. After previous success on U.S.-based Kickstarter and Indiegogo, OYO (On Your Own) Fitness launched its collapsible, portable gym product last…

Affinity Worldwide CEO hopes $1M gift to Kansas City Startup Foundation spurs more community giving

Editor’s note: Michael Wrenn previously was the owner of Startland News and its parent organization, the Center for Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Development (CEED). I’m a big believer in counting blessings and doing my small part to give back. My wife, Becky Cole, CFO of Affinity Worldwide, is of the same mindset. We’ve enjoyed success over the…

Rack Performance beefs up with seed investment from former Perceptive Software execs

Lenexa-based Rack Performance has raised a seed investment round that will fuel the exercise tech startup’s sales and development. Rack Performance has raised $300,000 from perceptiveEQUITY, a new early-stage investment firm that’s managed by three former executives at Lenexa-based Perceptive Software, which was purchased by Lexmark International for $280 million in 2010. Lexmark recently sold…

After 2014 departure, Lyft operations return to KCMO

Kansas Citians now have more ridesharing options than just Uber. After nearly a three year hiatus, the ride-sharing giant Lyft on Sunday re-launched its operations in Kansas City, Mo., including Kansas City International Airport. Lyft’s arrival represents more local competition among Uber and Lyft, and more choices for riders in Kansas City. Lyft already was…