News

MyAnIML earns NSF funding, patent; now facing new phase of growth with industry validation

By Tommy Felts / August 20, 2024

Thanks to a recent federal grant — along with a newly secured patent on its first-of-its-kind, proprietary facial recognition tech for cows — MyAnIML is proving its place as a leader within a herd of ag innovation, Shekhar Gupta said. The Overland Park startup received a 250,000 Phase I grant from the National Science Foundation…

KC’s next LGBTQ+ space wants to be more than just a raging club; How this permanent takeover aims to better reflect queer nightlife

By Tommy Felts / August 20, 2024

Westport nightlife is set for transformation as a sweeping expansion adds seven late-night hotspots to the historic entertainment district — anchored by a new bar catering specifically to Kansas City’s LGBTQ+ community. Q Kansas City — a collaboration with Lance Pierce of Queer Bar Takeover — is expected open its doors in October at 504 Westport…

Chef brings Urban concept back to Troost; $25K GIFT grant boosts fight against gentrification

By Tommy Felts / August 16, 2024

Chef Justin Clark’s latest venture — an eatery that blends Asian and soul food influences — aims to not only blur the boundaries between menus, but break down dividing lines within and between communities. “The goal was to create familiar items that everyone actually can relate to as Americans, but then again, we add some…

How one small town Missouri entrepreneur built a professional video business in a town of 10,000

By Tommy Felts / August 16, 2024

Editor’s note: The following story was produced through a paid partnership with MOSourceLink, which boasts a mission to help entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state of Missouri grow and succeed by providing free, easy access to the help they need — when they need it. HARRISONVILLE, Missouri — Byron Brooks received his first video camera…

Ruby Jean’s founder juices up STL small biz accelerator as entrepreneur in residence

By Tommy Felts / August 15, 2024

Chris Goode is sharing the fruits of his business success as the Ruby Jean’s Juicery founder takes on the apron of “entrepreneur in residence” for a Missouri program aimed at supporting Black and Latinx small businesses in St. Louis. In his role with the WEPower All-Industry Accelerator, Goode will guide 10 small businesses through a…