Minority-Led Stories

Mobile plant shop, nonprofit for returning citizens among latest Alchemy Sandbox grant winners

The Porter House KC closed out the first year of its Alchemy Sandbox program by awarding five more small business owners with up to $5,000 in grants. In total, PHKC Alchemy Sandbox awarded 20 businesses with grants in 2022.  “We started this journey with a simple idea: to deepen our commitment to supporting the small…

This weekend only: Festive balloon wonderland inflates holiday spirit at 18th and Vine

More than 125,000 biodegradable balloons are lifting holiday spirits this weekend in the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District. The Big Balloon Build — an international festival — is popping up Dec. 2-4 at the Gregg/Klice Community Center. Led by Peyton Westfall and Darren Huffman of Kansas City’s Pop Culture Sculptures, more than 70 balloon…

KC duo opens candy shop at Mizzou, bringing familiar flavors to students far from home

COLUMBIA, Missouri — A pair of Mizzou students from the Kansas City area are providing international students on campus with a taste of home. Kogo’s Kandies sells candy and treats from other countries, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive campus environment at the University of Missouri, said co-founders Jacob Burrell-Kogo and Henry Accardo….

Feds award KCK college $745K+ to boost 30 low-income STEM students working toward biology degrees

A National Science Foundation grant is expected to support the retention and graduation of high-achieving, low-income STEM students, said U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, announcing the award. Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) is set to receive $745,635 to fund scholarships — over the next five years — for 30 full-time students who are pursuing a…

Shop Small: 5 gifts made locally that don’t scream ‘Kansas City’ (KC Gift Guide)

Editor’s note: This feature is the fifth in Startland News’ five-part holiday gift guide showcasing Kansas City makers and their products. Check out the featured maker below, then keep reading for five gift ideas to get started. It’s only fitting that Whitney Manney’s favorite Christmas gift memory comes packed with references to her future fashion…