Minority-Led

Kauffman Foundation adds chief IT officer to CEO’s cabinet; role will use tech to open access, opportunities

By Tommy Felts / December 12, 2024

A Kauffman Foundation tech veteran is expected to help align the organization’s technology priorities in support of its mission to reduce barriers in college access, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace. Donell Hammond, who joined the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation in 2018, has been named chief information technology officer and a member of…

Kansas secures $8.2M for digital equity plans; part of Biden’s ‘Internet for all’ initiative

By Tommy Felts / December 12, 2024

New grant funding is expected to boost efforts to empower Kansans and Sunflower State communities with the digital tools and skills necessary to meaningfully benefit from high-speed Internet service. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on Wednesday announced funding pathways for Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, allowing the…

Made in KC crowns first-ever ‘Maker of the Year’ (plus the local-first retailer’s best new product)

By Tommy Felts / December 12, 2024

Kansas City’s thriving maker community received a festive boost this holiday season as Made in KC unveiled its first-ever Made in KC Awards — a celebration of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.  The awards highlight more than a dozen standout makers and innovative products, with two big  winners — KC New Maker of the Year and…

Former Hallmark, Crayola exec joins Reconciliation Services, shifting focus to equity of personal well-being

By Tommy Felts / December 10, 2024

A nearly 20-year corporate veteran has joined one of the most prominent nonprofit operations on Kansas City’s east side — marking another new chapter for Troost-based Reconciliation Services as Kristen Harris starts work as its new COO. “This role is an incredible opportunity to combine my passion for community impact with innovative leadership,” Harris said.…

KC needs elevated ambience, founder says; how her soon-to-open Westwood home store sets the table for ‘touches of trend’

By Tommy Felts / December 6, 2024

The moment local shoppers — aspiring to better entertain friends and loved ones — heard what Sarah Brown’s online store was offering, her home and lifestyle business “just blew up,” she said, detailing the demand now pushing the brand’s jump to brick and mortar. “It showed that people in Kansas City need and want what…