News

Listen: KC immigrant entrepreneurs share their stories

By Tommy Felts / February 23, 2017

In light of recent news, Startland News focused this month’s Innovation Exchange on the intersection of immigration and entrepreneurship. U.S. immigration policy has a profound impact not only on society but also the nation’s entrepreneurial vibrancy, which prompted a discussion including a researcher and policy expert, a local immigration attorney and pair of immigrant entrepreneurs.…

KC cartoonist captures conversation on immigration and entrepreneurship

By Tommy Felts / February 23, 2017

Tucked amid a crowd of about 80 people at Think Big Partners Tuesday, Kansas City artist Jasur Rakhimov swiftly sketched a conversation unfolding before him on immigration and entrepreneurship. A cartoon-style artist, Rakhimov stopped by Startland News’ fifth Innovation Exchange that focused on immigration and entrepreneurship to not only share his talents but also to…

MusicSpoke changes the tune of the sheet music industry

By Tommy Felts / February 21, 2017

No matter your level of musical expertise, it’s no doubt you’ve touched a piece of sheet music — whether at church, in school or just for fun.  “Music touches everybody’s lives,” said Jennifer Rosenblatt, co-founder of MusicSpoke. “If you didn’t grow up singing or playing an instrument, you have children who did or nieces and nephews. You…

Events Preview: LaunchCode, KC Saas

By Tommy Felts / February 21, 2017

There are a plethora of entrepreneurial events hosted in Kansas City on a weekly basis. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, supporter, or curious community member — we recommend these upcoming events for you. Innovation Exchange When: Feb. 21, 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Where: Think Big Coworking Rarely are all the facts of breaking news included…

Mid-America Angels invests $287K in medical firm Voxello

By Tommy Felts / February 20, 2017

The Kansas City-based Mid-America Angels investment group announced that it’s backing an Iowa-based medical device company. The regional network of angel investors announced Monday that it invested $287,000 into Voxello. The company created the “noddle,” which allows hospitalized patients to communicate nonverbally. The device detects voluntary gestures — such as a tongue click, eye blink or…