Startland News Staff
Sometimes we share credit. The “Staff Writer” byline appears on stories reported, written, or edited collaboratively by members of the Startland News team — especially for quick hits and breaking news.
Recent Articles by Startland News Staff
Catalyst Fund tops $2M invested in nonprofits boosting people of color; meet the latest grantees
The latest batch of Catalyst Fund grants — a combined $500,000 across nearly two dozen organizations — seeks to elevate the work of small nonprofits that are led by or primarily serve Black, Latino, and other people of color across the region, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace. “Looking across the list of organizations in this third…
Missouri to create ‘Office of Entrepreneurship,’ prioritize access for emerging ventures
Newly signed legislation — part of a nationwide Right to Start initiative with roots in Kansas City — is expected to boost starters across Missouri, advocates said this week, and reflects broad public and bipartisan support for eliminating barriers for new entrepreneurs and overlooked business owners. “Advancing entrepreneurship will energize the Missouri economy,” said Missouri…
Just funded: Meet the newest Digital Sandbox KC startups (and see what they’re building now)
Digital Sandbox KC this week announced five new startups joining its program that will receive crucial support, mentorship and up to $20,000 in project funding to accelerate their innovative projects. “We are delighted to bring these cutting-edge startups into the Sandbox, connecting them with the necessary support and resources to advance their innovative projects,” said…
Pulling $250K in annual sales and ready to scale? This KC cohort could take your small biz to the next level
As many as 20 local entrepreneurs and business owners could be selected for the latest game-changing program from ScaleUP! Kansas City. The key to getting in: proven revenue and a market ready for their supercharged ventures. ScaleUP! Kansas City — built within the UMKC Innovation Center — is now accepting applications for its no-cost cohort,…
KC BioHub leaders refining plan after $75M Tech Hubs proposal fails initial test
A massive regional initiative to secure federal funds for Kansas City’s burgeoning Tech Hub failed to win approval, BioNexus KC officials announced Tuesday, with advocates lauding organizers’ efforts and pledging to continue their push. The KC BioHub was seeking funding Phase II funding from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Tech Hubs competition — a process…
Wichita investors propel startup helping underserved schools, nonprofits boost workforce
Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro. WICHITA — A more than $500,000 oversubscribed round from accredited investors — mostly Wichita backers — is just one milestone in tech startup KaaS’ plans for $1 million in 2024 investments, said…
Kauffman Foundation looks within, names new executive director for 1 Million Cups, FastTrac
The new steward of two core programs from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation brings a wealth of experience in inclusive entrepreneurship and as a workforce development leader, the influential Kansas City philanthropic organization said Monday. Olatunji Ajani, a current associate at the Kauffman Foundation, begins his role as executive director for 1 Million Cups and…
Firm with deep KC ties wins Small Business of the Year thanks to tenacity, hyperlocal focus
Editor’s note: The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce is a non-financial partner of Startland News, which serves as the media partner for the Small Business Superstars program. A decades-long commitment to Kansas City clients — and the belief that rising tides lift all ships — helped propel Walz Tetrick Advertising to the award stage…
New collaboration will help OP startup 3D bioprint, scale its next-gen biotech solution
A Kansas biotech startup’s new manufacturing partner will boost efforts to automate and mass produce Ronawk’s headline-grabbing Bio-Block technology — a platform that has already accelerated medical advancements in tissue therapy. “Collaboration is critical for turning research advances into commercial therapies rapidly. The complexity and diversity of modalities is so big that nobody can do…
Bardavon releases enhanced wearable sensors, easy-use app to prevent worker injuries
New sensor technology from an Overland Park health tech and preventative safety startup is expected to simplify data collection and lessen the burden on workers wearing the devices. Bardavon this week announced significant enhancements to its injury prevention solution, Preventure, which includes next-generation wearable technology and a brand-new kiosk app designed to revolutionize workplace safety….