Kemper Family backs Endeavor as global entrepreneur network deepens its Heartland ties

A Kansas City banking executive is joining the board of Endeavor Heartland through a collaboration that sees UMB Bank and the Kemper Family Foundation investing in Endeavor’s mission to scale entrepreneur-led innovation and economic growth from within the region.

Sandy Kemper, Kemper Family Foundation

“Kansas City has always punched above its weight when it comes to entrepreneurial spirit, and supporting the ecosystem that helps founders grow is core to what Christine and I focus on through our foundation,” said Sandy Kemper, trustee of the Kemper Family Foundation.

While financial details were not disclosed, Kemper Family and UMB Bank are funding the board seat seat of Nikki Newton, president of UMB Private Wealth, in a bid to strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and expand opportunities for founders across the Heartland, Kemper added..

“Endeavor’s model, connecting high-growth entrepreneurs with the relationships and expertise they need to scale, aligns directly with that mission,” he continued. “We’re proud to support Nikki’s appointment to the board and the work Endeavor Heartland is doing across the region.”

Craig Moore II, Endeavor Heartland

Based in Bentonville, Arkansas, Endeavor Heartland serves founders across Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, providing mentorship, strategic connections, and access to capital. Its work in Kansas City is coordinated from a local office at Keystone CoLAB and led by Craig Moore II, senior manager of entrepreneur experience.

The partnership between Endeavor and UMB’s Newton grew out of relationships developed through Endeavor’s National Selection Panel process, where Newton engaged with Endeavor entrepreneurs, mentors, and business leaders.

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Those interactions led to broader conversations about how UMB Bank and the Kemper Family Foundation could support Endeavor Heartland’s work, as well as giving Newton a firsthand look at the challenges and opportunities facing high-growth founders, he said.

“I was impressed by the organization’s commitment to helping companies scale,” Newton said. “I’m honored to join the board and look forward to supporting Endeavor’s mission of connecting founders with the relationships, resources, and expertise they need to grow.”

As president of UMB Private Wealth, Newton oversees strategy, growth, and client services for the division. He has more than 25 years of experience in investment management and financial services, including leadership roles at Waddell & Reed and Ivy Global.

On Endeavor Heartland’s board, Newton will help guide organization’s strategy and support its efforts to connect founders with the resources, networks, and mentorship needed to scale their businesses, said Canem Arkan, managing director of Endeavor Heartland.

“Nikki brings deep expertise in asset management, institutional investor relations, business strategy, and scaling global investment platforms,” she said. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to the board. His appointment reflects not only the value of his leadership and experience, but also the strength of the connections that emerge through Endeavor’s network and create new opportunities to support entrepreneurs across the Heartland.”