News

Translating business: KCMO chatbot breaks down startup lingo in 70+ languages

By Tommy Felts / April 18, 2024

Editor’s note: KC BizCare is a partner of Startland News. Entrepreneurs who struggle with understanding the complexities of starting a business often find additional challenges if English isn’t their first language, said Nia Richardson, adding that all aspiring small business owners deserve the same access to resources. “We’re trying to look at ways to bring technology…

80+ student competitors from across Kansas just rallied for their share of $70K in cash prizes

By Tommy Felts / April 18, 2024

Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro.  MANHATTAN, Kansas — Aaron Collins walked away from the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge with not just $2,500, but also validation that he’s on the right track with his lawn care business,…

How a newly closed parking garage could signal transformation for a living Downtown KC 

By Tommy Felts / April 18, 2024

A series of transformative building projects are expected to help downtown Kansas City’s continued evolution as a resurgence in residents in the city’s core push new retail, offices and attractions, said Tommy Wilson. “Downtown has actually been on an incredible growth trajectory since the beginning of 2003,” Wilson, director of business recruitment and research for…

First look at 2024 Parade of Hearts: 100+ artists paint Kansas City with a harmony of colors

By Tommy Felts / April 16, 2024

Kansas City artist Skiggity lives his life in vivid color, he shared, so it was only natural for his art — and his Parade of Hearts entry — to reflect that bright-eyed perspective. “I like vibrancy,” the muralist and digital artist explained. “I don’t really have a style. I like vibrant colors. I also like…

KCK milkman reclaims his passion for painting; splattering pop art portraits of KC sports stars, celebrity icons

By Tommy Felts / April 16, 2024

While his pieces don’t feature happy, little trees, David Alston’s pop culture-inspired portraits still reflect the influence of the iconic painter Bob Ross. About a decade ago, a chance viewing of the well-known artist’s PBS show “The Joy of Painting” — Alston’s youngest son accidentally left the TV on before leaving for school — inspired…