Startups

Kauffman Capital Access Lab

Kauffman launching Capital Access Lab investment pipeline for underserved entrepreneurs

Every new business should have a fighting chance at success — regardless of the entrepreneur’s background, said Victor Hwang, announcing a new Capital Access Lab to address opportunity gaps in Kansas City and across the U.S. “It is up to us to collectively break down systematic barriers to entry that adversely impact people of color,…

Sandy Kemper, C2FO unicorn

Hunting unicorns: C2FO spotlighted as startup likely to reach $1B valuation

Leawood-based C2FO is among the nation’s highest-momentum startups, according to CB Insights and The New York Times, which teamed up to name 50 “future unicorns.” The U.S. companies on the list — which analysts involved predict will eventually be valued at $1 billion or more — largely are based on the coasts. Twenty-two are in…

Jesse Nelson and Bo Nelson, Cafe Equinox

Thou Mayest sprouts fresh coffee concept in the suburbs; new Crossroads flagship percolating

Coffee needn’t be melancholy or monochromatic, said Thou Mayest founder Bo Nelson, bathed in warm sunlight at Cafe Equinox. “We have to wake people up,” said Nelson. “We’re trying to celebrate the diversity of life — humanity, plants, music, art — so many collisions. It’s not a distraction. It’s not a means to an end….

Atonix Digital Black & Veatch

Atonix Digital using predictive analytics to tackle Black & Veatch first, then the world

Black & Veatch offshoot Atonix Digital is re-engineering the future of its parent company’s customer base, said Paul McRoberts. Developed to offer software solutions to customers from Black & Veatch’s existing market sectors — power, water, and telecommunications — Atonix has the opportunity to move beyond its specific corporate origins to service other industries, said…

K-State Technology Development Institute student Interns utilizing waterjet cutting system to prototype client parts

K-State institute’s expanded focus: Boost Kansas companies launching new tech

Every Startup A Wildcat? The Technology Development Institute at Kansas State University is evolving its role and services to improve the economic competitiveness of Kansas companies. Broadening activity at the institute — formerly known as the Advanced Manufacturing Institute — reflects a focus on developing, protecting and launching new technologies for a range of partners,…