Taylor Wilmore
Reporter, Startland News
Taylor Wilmore, hailing from Lee’s Summit, is a dedicated reporter and a recent graduate of the University of Missouri, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Taylor channels her deep-seated passion for writing and storytelling to create compelling narratives that shed light on the diverse residents of Kansas City.
Prior to her role at Startland News, Taylor made valuable contributions as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian newspaper, where she covered a wide range of community news and higher education stories.
Recent Articles by Taylor Wilmore
Beadwork maker thankful for Native heritage, crafting pieces that honor her lineage (not just what will sell)
Komina Guevara’s hands are rarely still. Through intricate beadwork and crafting leather, her art tells a story deeply rooted in cultural heritage, family traditions, and personal evolution. As the creative force behind KomGue, Guevara is gaining recognition as a standout Kansas City maker — her work showcased at pop-ups and earning her the $1,500 second-place…
Side hustle to help autistic adults belong in the workplace earns young founder Student Entrepreneur of the Year honor
Grace Kertz is redefining what workplace inclusivity can look like with Sensory Sync, an AI-powered platform designed to support neurodivergent employees. Her work on the innovative venture on Thursday earned her the title of UMKC Student Entrepreneur of the Year. “Sensory sync is an enterprise grade DEI and wellness platform sold to companies. It utilizes…
World Cup is sprinting closer; entrepreneurs should be preparing now, say regional biz leaders
Kansas City is kicking plans into high gear as the 2026 FIFA World Cup heads to the pitch — with local leaders eager to capitalize on the massive economic impact expected from the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “The 2026 World Cup will be the largest event mankind has ever put on, and it’s going to be the…
Just funded: LaunchKC unveils 7 newest grant winners, topping $385K in startup capital
LaunchKC’s big reveal Tuesday was about more than checking a box — or getting hands on oversized checks — with grant competition winners taking the stage to introduce their companies to an eager community of supporters, entrepreneurs and investors. “This event is incredible,” said Donnie Hampton, co-founder of Roz, one of seven startups honored Tuesday…
Pitch event matches queer singles with dates, but there’s a catch: It’s a bestie behind the mic
Singles within Kansas City’s queer community are about to experience a fresh take on matchmaking, said Tiffany Watts, detailing plans for a pitch event this week where lonely hearts could find connections with help from people who already see them best: their friends. The interactive Where to Find Us event is set for Thursday, Nov….
Investor market turns Midwest conservative: ‘Everyone here is feeling a changing landscape’
After years of soaring valuations across the startup scene, venture firms like M25 are observing a shift to more risk-averse investors and stricter examinations of even the most-exciting company’s worth, said Abhinaya Konduru. “We’re seeing a new normal,” said Konduru, a principal on the influential Chicago-based M25 team and a panelist at Thursday’s MidxMidwest event…
This stay-at-home mom took risks in search of her identity; starting a business revealed authenticity was already in stock
There’s beauty in stepping out of your comfort zone, said Franki Ferguson. “Even if it scares you,” the founder of Fonti Collections added. Ferguson, a life-long Kansas Citian, launched her online clothing boutique Sept. 18, aiming to offer more than just trendy apparel. Her mission: help women feel empowered and confident — while using entrepreneurship…
KC’s worst food is wasted food: New app helps restaurants keep meals out of the trash can
Kansas City diners can soon dig into affordable, delicious food while helping the planet. Too Good To Go, the world’s largest marketplace for surplus food, will officially launch Nov. 13 in Kansas City. The app connects local food businesses with surplus food to consumers who can buy Surprise Bags of that food for half the…
How one veteran’s early struggles with soft skills inspired tech to boost a new generation
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. ST. LOUIS — Gavin Pringle knows firsthand the struggles…
Speak easy and SprinkleSumSalt: Podcaster passes the mic to KC’s underground arts scene
Untold stories of creative talent and entrepreneurial spirit are raging beneath the surface of Kansas City’s mainstream, said Bump Jonas, who finds vibrant inspiration in musicians, chefs, and small business owners angling to reach a broader audience. “I wanted to bring something unique to Kansas City, a space where artists and entrepreneurs can connect and…