Guest Authors Stories
Denise Kruse: So your startup landed its first big client — now what?
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. As a startup, it takes hard work to get a potential client through the door. You have to get them to believe in your business model and product or service you’re offering; wow them with your expertise and industry knowledge; and finally, close the…
April Boyd-Noronha: 6 steps to ‘flip the script’ on women in STEM
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Next week, my oldest daughter will embark on the next level of her STEM journey — the college level. She has chosen to pursue a major in cybersecurity this fall. As a STEM parent, I’m filled with mixed emotions related to the recent…
Affinity Worldwide CEO hopes $1M gift to Kansas City Startup Foundation spurs more community giving
Editor’s note: Michael Wrenn previously was the owner of Startland News and its parent organization, the Center for Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Development (CEED). I’m a big believer in counting blessings and doing my small part to give back. My wife, Becky Cole, CFO of Affinity Worldwide, is of the same mindset. We’ve enjoyed success over the…
Denise Kruse: So your startup has a strategy — now what?
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Strategy. Strategic plan. Go-to-market. Blueprint. Tactics. Startup innovators probably have heard an exhaustive list of synonyms and buzzwords. I’ve seen them all as a business leader for more than 30 years, helping companies define their strategy or execute on it. And there’s good reason…
In swan song, departing innovation official Kate Garman reflects on tenure with KCMO
Editor’s note: Kate Garman is the KCMO innovation analyst but will be departing this week for a new opportunity in Seattle. She wrote the following piece reflecting on her time with the city. I’ve had a desk at Kansas City Hall now for three years. Starting as an intern, and later joining the staff as…
