Thirsty Coconut buys country’s worth of smoothie machines, hops state line

Luke Einsel and Garth Einsel, Thirsty Coconut

When opportunity knocks, entrepreneurs must throw risk out the window and do whatever it takes to open the door, said Luke Einsel. [pullquote] Elevator pitch: We’re a beverage distribution company, focused on commercial accounts. We source the healthiest, best-tasting products that have minimal sugar, minimal artificial ingredients, and maximum health benefits. Year founded: 2012 Funding…

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MTC renews 2018 support for LaunchKC grant contest

Despite the government program’s uncertain financial future, the Missouri Technology Corporation will inject $250,000 into the popular grants contest LaunchKC for 2018. After having its budget slashed from nearly $23 million in 2017 to $3.4 million in 2018, the MTC announced Friday that it will once again support the Kansas City-based grant contest, which has…

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Startland News wins 2017 EDCKC Cornerstone award

Thanks to a talented team and supportive community, I’m proud to announce that Startland News has won a 2017 Cornerstone Award. Presented by the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City for 30 years, the Cornerstone Awards recognize people, projects, businesses, programs, initiatives and events that drive economic development and growth in Kansas City. On behalf…

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LaunchKC snags hundreds of hungry applicants

The popular grants competition LaunchKC again was met with an enthusiastic response by applicants. The competition — which will distribute $500,000 via 10, $50,000 non-dilutive grants — drew more than 400 tech startup applicants for the second year in a row. A panel of judges are now combing through the applications to find the top…

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