Startups

Harold Hess, Enduralock, second from left, at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit, The Hague, Netherlands

Nuts and bolts: Lenexa-forged Enduralock tech catches the eye of NASA, Shell

By Tommy Felts / June 7, 2019

A Lenexa-based startup is gathering accolades faster than a SpaceX rocket’s methane-fueled full flow staged combustion cycle. “Investors definitely see something unique that is brewing here in Kansas City, so we are excited to represent the area,” said Diana Greenberg, COO and co-founder of Enduralock. Founded in 2014, Enduralock is one of 10 finalist tech…

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Missouri medical marijuana licenses

Competitive scoring for medical marijuana licenses pit startups against time as window narrows

By Tommy Felts / June 6, 2019

Missouri entrepreneurs hoping to roll into the multi-million dollar medical marijuana industry first must jump a number of hurdles. Step one: Obtaining a license. “Missouri is very competitive,” said Dre Taylor, founder of Nile Valley Aquaponics. “So you know, if you’re trying to win the application, you need to have your ducks in a row.”…

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Father turns grief over son’s loss into healthtech solution for speedier medical records transfers

By Tommy Felts / June 6, 2019

Chris Jones’ quietly sunny disposition belies the hard knocks peppered throughout his past. Then again, the full-time consultant, masters candidate, and now startup founder sees all past experience as a catalyst for growth, he said. “Everything you’ve been through in life prepares you for this moment, now,” said Jones, founder of MatchRite Care. “So you…

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MADE MOBB building streetwear experience, empire with new Crossroads retail store

By Tommy Felts / June 4, 2019

MADE MOBB’s growing footprint in Kansas City isn’t because of luck, said Mark Launiu, as the streetwear apparel company plans to open its third retail location in July. “If I’m honest with you, this is hard. It’s a lot of work to push the brand and reflect the culture,” said Launiu, co-founder of MADE MOBB/MADE…

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The Rainbow Crossing, Utrecht, Netherlands, photo by Tayla Kohler

Pride underfoot: Founder’s rainbow crosswalk movement met with resistance

By Tommy Felts / June 4, 2019

KC PrideFest 2019 has come and gone, but one voice in Kansas City’s startup community is advocating for a year-around symbol of LGBTQ+ support. “I want something that’s going to be more permanent than a sticker on the streetcar,” said Brandon Love, referencing the recently unveiled KC streetcar that sports a wraparound rainbow design. “That’s…

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