Minority-Led Stories

Just funded: Digital Sandbox KC ‘fuels innovation’ for five emerging tech startups

Scaling past the proof-of-concept stage is key for young startups, so making them fundable by the time their product is built can mean the difference between success and stagnation, said Jill Meyer, announcing the latest round of companies backed by Digital Sandbox KC. The five startups receiving up to $20,000 each include ventures focused on…

Organized mess or inbox in distress? What your email says about the vibe at work (Holistic Hustle)

Kharissa Parker is a news producer, writer, certified health coach, and columnist for Startland News. For more of her self-care tips on how to keep your cup full, visit kparker.co. Editor’s note: This commentary on awareness of space — and how it reflects the vibe necessary to succeed at work — continues Parker’s series on…

Federal ban on noncompetes would ‘unleash’ entrepreneurs, open door to more startups, advocate says

A proposed rule change that would stop employers from imposing and enforcing contract clauses to limit their workers’ ability to change jobs within their fields is being hailed as a “vital step on the path to expanding economic growth in the United States,” according to one Kansas City-based advocate for entrepreneurs. Earlier this month, the…

Ice Cream Bae returns to the Country Club Plaza with its own storefront, more flavors 

Adison and Jackie Sichampanakhone have a soft spot for the Country Club Plaza, they shared. It’s where the journey with their soft-serve ice cream shop began. “We’re excited to be back. We had so many great customers down here before, so we’re happy to be able to serve them again,” said Adison, who co-founded Ice…

Just Walk Out: Crossroads Market features Amazon tech for checkout-free convenience

Grocery shoppers in the Crossroads can now skip the checkout line. Newly outfitted with Amazon’s Just Walk Out and Amazon One technology, Community Groceries Crossroads Market reopened to the public Friday. The Crossroads Market — owned by Kortney Lee at 640 East 18th St. — is the first store in Kansas City and the first…