News

After his eye-catching KCI installation took flight, Willie Cole had 100+ horns leftover; He kept building

By Tommy Felts / June 28, 2023

Willie Cole didn’t choose to be an artist. It’s always been part of him. “I think I was an artist in a previous life,” said the contemporary American sculptor, printer and perceptual engineer. “When I was 3 years old, my mom found me drawing in the kitchen, and since then, my family always said I…

Lawrence cybersecurity startup raises $1.85M pre-seed round led by KC’s Flyover Capital

By Tommy Felts / June 28, 2023

A startup focused on detecting hidden malware and preventing costly ransomware attacks announced a power-packed pre-seed funding round to push its pending launch — with the backing of a trio of high-profile regional investors. The investment in cybersecurity pioneer Invary was led by Flyover Capital, with additional participation from NetWork Kansas GROWKS Equity program, and…

Pickle and Suede: Sporty new line plays on jewelry brand’s versatility, flexes creative muscle

By Tommy Felts / June 26, 2023

Nickel and Suede is hitting the court this summer, served co-founder Kilee Nickels. The Liberty-based jewelry brand — which just celebrated its ninth birthday — has released a pickleball paddle in collaboration with Recess Pickleball, along with a line of “just the right” accessories to coordinate. “It’s kind of our stamp of approval,” Nickels said.…

Fund Me, KC: Zanago founders seek support to close funding gap for real estate transparency platform

By Tommy Felts / June 26, 2023

Startland News is continuing its “Fund Me, KC” series to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses or lend a helping hand to others. This is an opportunity for business owners and innovators — like Louis Byrd and Arlene Byrd from the social impact tech company Zanago — to share their crowdfunding stories and potentially…

C2FO launches empowerment grants to boost Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs

By Tommy Felts / June 23, 2023

A new grant program from one of Kansas City’s most high profile scaleups is expected to empower — and help fund — three nonprofit organizations serving Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, said Jessie Fields. “We know small business owners, and especially diverse business owners, face so many challenges,” said Fields, director of talent development and DEI…