Profiles

Maggie Kenefake, Royal Street Ventures, Kansas City University Venture Fund

Founders’ Lab aims to open access to the world of capital for underrepresented would-be startup, investment leaders

By Tommy Felts / December 3, 2020

A pandemic-founded program has students leading the charge as a new generation of founders and venture capitalists rises together against the backdrop of an evolving and accessible Kansas City, Maggie Kenefake said.  “With underrepresented founders, it’s really shocking,” said Kenefake, managing director of Kansas City University Venture Fund (KCUVF) and venture partner at Royal Street…

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Alan Kneeland, The Combine

The Combine hopes to cultivate KC unity with pizza and cocktails on Troost

By Tommy Felts / December 2, 2020

Editor’s note: This article is underwritten by Plexpod — a progressive coworking platform offering next generation workspace for entrepreneurs, startups, and growth-stage companies of all sizes — but was independently produced by Startland News. Pizzeria restaurateur Alan Kneeland’s connection to Troost slices both ways. “I actually grew up on 75th and Troost, so it’s pretty dope to…

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Plexpod Flashcube

Sneak peek: Plexpod Flashcube offers glimpse into coworking’s future (Hint: It isn’t far from home)

By Tommy Felts / December 1, 2020

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Plexpod — a progressive coworking platform offering next generation workspace for entrepreneurs, startups, and growth-stage companies of all sizes — but was independently produced by Startland News. Work, live, play, Stephanie Medina emphasized during a guided tour of the newest and most high-end Plexpod community yet.  “We’re looking at how…

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La’Nesha Frazier and La’Nae Robinson, Bliss Books and Wine

Partners in page turning: Sisters unwind with cigar bar-style concept for wine-loving readers

By Tommy Felts / November 28, 2020

Sure, wine pairs great with dinner or sweets — but have you ever tried it with just the right book, asked Kansas City-born sisters La’Nesha Frazier and La’Nae Robinson. “If I’m reading a comedy, I don’t want something dark, something like a heavy red wine. I want light. I want something fruity, I want something…

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Dave Lindahl, HyperKC

HyperKC owner found freedom in KC’s ‘softest’ tee — and a new career as his own boss

By Tommy Felts / November 27, 2020

If Kansas City has an abundance of anything, it’s wearable pride, said Dave Lindahl.  “Charlie Hustle invented it,” added Lindahl, owner of HyperKC — a local apparel company that channeled the New York-transplant’s passion for KC into an all-inclusive brand that celebrates local artists and serves as a de facto welcome center for out-of-town visitors…

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