Government

Ready to bet big? Kansas wants to help entrepreneurs win more federal innovation grants

By Tommy Felts / December 9, 2025

Kansas innovators now have access to a new tool designed to help them compete for major federal funding. The Kansas Department of Commerce has opened applications for the state’s SBIR and STTR Matching Program, which provides financial support and hands-on guidance for entrepreneurs pursuing federal innovation grants. The matching initiative is part of ACCEL-KS, a…

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Tariffs are driving up costs for American coffee roasters: ‘We’ve never seen anything like this’

By Tommy Felts / December 1, 2025

Editor’s note: The following story was published by Harvest Public Media and KCUR, Kansas City’s NPR member station, and a fellow member of the KC Media Collective. Click here to read the original story or here to sign up for KCUR’s email newsletter. Coffee has gotten a lot more expensive in the U.S. as tariffs seep into the price tag;…

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Kiva KC brings zero-interest microloans to founders shut out of traditional capital

By Tommy Felts / November 28, 2025

Editor’s note: The Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC) and KC BizCare are partners of Startland News. Kansas City is betting that a global microlending model — one built on $25 contributions and community belief in everyday entrepreneurs — can help close one of the city’s most stubborn gaps: early-stage capital for founders who…

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How the 2025 Kansas Citians of the Year proved ‘KC Made’ could compete against the world 

By Tommy Felts / November 26, 2025

They recognized Kansas City’s promise and potential early — helping usher in a new era of global sports opportunity for the region. Now Cliff Illig and Kathy Nelson are the latest community shapers crowned Kansas Citians of the Year. Honored Tuesday night during the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner, the two were…

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Mayor: Film projects roll $24M into region’s creative economy as KC productions boom

By Tommy Felts / November 26, 2025

When Hallmark’s “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas” airs this weekend, Kansas City viewers — and audiences across the globe — will see recognizable locations from throughout the metro, where a significant portion of the movie was filmed. It’s an increasingly common showcase of KC’s versatility, said Quinton Lucas, as the region takes its place on the…

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