Government

NXTUS expands enterprise-focused program beyond Kansas; four KC-area startups selected

By Tommy Felts / August 13, 2025

WICHITA, Kan. — An ongoing initiative to demystify the relationship-building process between emerging entrepreneurs and potential enterprise partners just expanded deeper into the Midwest, welcoming 20 growth-minded innovators from Wichita to St. Louis. “For entrepreneurs whose success depends on forging relationships with ‘the big guys,’ this unique program is so valuable,” said Mary Beth Jarvis, president…

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Caterpillar subsidiary expands into KC, turning dirt to create 85 jobs in revitalized industrial corridor near riverfront

By Tommy Felts / August 12, 2025

A multi-million dollar expansion project is expected to put an aging manufacturing site back on track in Kansas City, officials at Progress Rail announced Monday, noting the converted operation will focus on re-manufacturing railcar wheelsets and bearings. Progress Rail — a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. — expects to bring 85 new full-time jobs…

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Kauffman targets $250K grant toward vacant storefront revitalization as World Cup looms

By Tommy Felts / August 7, 2025

Funding from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is expected to help Kansas City prepare for an influx of visitors cheering on competitors at the 2026 FIFA World Cup — activating vacant storefronts in key areas with retail, artist, and community-focused pop-ups, city leaders said this week. The KCMO-centered initiative — first announced in June and patterned…

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Entrepreneurs say DoorDash accelerator delivered, prepping their small businesses for tall orders ahead 

By Tommy Felts / July 31, 2025

Ten graduates of DoorDash’s 12-week Midwest accelerator gathered Wednesday to celebrate successes from the program, along with lessons they say will last longer than the $5,000 grants each entrepreneur received. “Running a small business is tough work, and it meant so much to receive support from DoorDash and my home of Kansas City,” said Tanyech…

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KCK party store’s sales plummet because of ICE fears; It’s not the only business slowed by the crackdown

By Tommy Felts / July 30, 2025

Editor’s note: The following story was published by 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. [divide] President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown has many recent immigrants terrified, hunkering down and holding onto their money; That new fear…

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