Government

LISTEN: Biotech founder breaks down how she turns microorganisms into high-quality protein in just 24 hours

By Tommy Felts / September 5, 2025

On this episode of Startland News’ Plug and Play Topeka founder podcast series, we explore a ground-breaking food innovation with Katelijne “Kate” Bekers, co-founder and CEO of MicroHarvest. This biotech startup is pioneering the world’s fastest protein production — turning microorganisms into high-quality protein in just 24 hours, using sustainable fermentation and agricultural side-streams, while…

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Development leaders laud HQ expansion for organization that opens workforce to Kansas Citians with autism 

By Tommy Felts / August 28, 2025

A new multimillion-dollar, 80,000-square-foot headquarters along Kansas City’s Brush Creek marks a major milestone for Behavioral Health Allies, strengthening the organization’s workforce training efforts and its belief in the potential for individuals with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders, officials said Wednesday. “This expansion is exactly the kind of investment Kansas City needs,” said Tracey…

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LaunchKC opens grants competition with nationwide search; eying companies to call KC home

By Tommy Felts / August 28, 2025

A popular grants competition that offers early stage tech companies the opportunity to win $60,000 in non-dilutive grants, downtown Kansas City office space, and access to scaling resources is back for 2025 — emphasizing startups with high-growth potential and equitable business practices. LaunchKC’s signature Liftoff grants competition opened applications Thursday, kicking off a nationwide search…

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MTC leader resigning, calls for a new voice to lead fight for Missouri entrepreneurship funding

By Tommy Felts / August 26, 2025

A leadership change at the Missouri Technology Corporation comes as the state faces a crossroads with its approach to entrepreneurship support, officials said Tuesday, reacting to news of a high-profile resignation just three months after the public-private partnership lost key financial support from lawmakers and a new governor. “It’s time for MTC to be led…

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Amazon’s drones won’t be alone over KC: Federal rule change opens skies to greater tech buzz

By Tommy Felts / August 26, 2025

As the nation prepares for large-scale commercial drone deployments — thanks in part to newly rolled-back federal regulations — pilots, businesses, and agencies using the tech must skillfully balance opportunity with public trust and privacy concerns, industry experts said. “I’ve had people say to me, it kind of creeps me out … but in 30…

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