Woman-led

Zee underscores artists’ need for positive venues; creative powerhouse opens pocket of support

By Tommy Felts / August 20, 2024

Zahra Briggs developed her creative voice in Kansas City; now she’s setting the stage for fellow independent artists who struggle to find venues that match their vibe — and often have to pay to perform. She’s even creating a version of herself in the metaverse to open access further. A singer and songwriter herself, Briggs — who…

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Hair entrepreneur goes beyond business to tackle a community need

By Tommy Felts / August 14, 2024

Editor’s note: The following story was produced through a paid partnership with MOSourceLink, which boasts a mission to help entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state of Missouri grow and succeed by providing free, easy access to the help they need — when they need it. [divide] ST. LOUIS — Braiding hair for over 20 years,…

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Kansas City entrepreneurs chosen for startup competition focused on health tech

By Tommy Felts / August 13, 2024

WICHITA — Health innovation is a global priority, said organizers of the latest NXTSTAGE cohort, announcing nearly a dozen finalists and solutions hailing from Kansas City to France. Ten companies were selected for the 2024 NXTSTAGE Community Health and Vibrancy Pilot Competition, presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS). Finalists include startups working to…

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Becca Castro redesigned, rebooted LaunchKC; now she’ll lead KCSourceLink, one of KC’s premier startup champions

By Tommy Felts / August 13, 2024

KCSourceLink’s new director and network builder brings more than two decades of experience and a shared passion for helping aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs grow their businesses, leaders of the organization said Tuesday. Becca Castro, who most recently led LaunchKC from within the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC), begins the role Aug. 19. “I’m…

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Venture for America abruptly closes; ending fellowship that matched talent with KC startups, VCs

By Tommy Felts / August 9, 2024

A coast-to-coast fellowship program that sought to reinvigorate communities — including Kansas City — by pairing recent college graduates with emerging startups, investment firms, and nonprofits has unexpectedly ceased operations, leaders with Venture for America announced this week. “While this chapter for our national organization is closing, the spirit and impact of VFA will endure through…

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