Minority-Led

‘It’s not just a brand for me anymore’: How Grace & Grind put the selfless in self-care, Black wellness

By Tommy Felts / September 10, 2021

Kharissa and Wesley Forte were once on the verge of divorce.  But after deciding to give their relationship a final push, the two went to counseling. The experience was revelatory, they said, noting it ultimately prompted them to create their own online media company — Grace & Grind — to share lessons and their story with…

Welcome to Paradise (Garden Club): ‘The world might be on fire, but this plant is doing great’

By Tommy Felts / September 3, 2021

No matter the color of your thumb, Paradise Garden Club has something for all its plant fans, said Jessica Teliczan.  Housed in an airy warehouse in Crossroads, the plant nursery and community space has become a bustling spot for greenery collectors and enthusiasts. Customers can shop in store, order shippable plants online, hire the team…

Techstars’ summer finale means closing investment rounds for founders, says KC leader

By Tommy Felts / September 3, 2021

Demo day is as much about looking forward as it is an examination of a startup’s journey through Techstars, Maria Flynn said, teasing new dollar deals ahead for the 2021 Kansas City cohort. “There are already a number of investment commitments coming in, so we are focused on closing the investment rounds so the companies…

Techstars arrival: Find that ‘ride or die’ investor who answers your 3 am calls, founder says

By Tommy Felts / September 2, 2021

Even in a startup’s early stages, founders need both a roadmap and destination, said Zerryn Gines. “You don’t need to know exactly what you’re doing every step of the way, but if you know where you want to go — then you can connect to the right people and ask the right questions,” explained Gines,…

A Bible parable helped connect vegan foods to Made in KC cafes; here’s how two sisters planted the seed

By Tommy Felts / August 28, 2021

Now served at Made in KC cafes across the metro — from the brand’s popular marketplaces to the new Outta the Blue oasis and downtown trolley cafe — vegan goods from Mattie’s Foods arrive on plates thanks to growing hunger for more healthy options, as well as the wholesome ingredients of a community-built business. Between…