Minority-Led Stories
Clara Biotech hits $850K in seed funding roundup, preparing to launch first product
An emerging biotech startup in the region is reporting a busy spring with a significant seed round already raised and key steps under way to launch its product: a solution that removes manufacturing roadblocks for breakthrough drugs. “We’re in an exciting and growing space and currently have low regulatory hurdles in the research stage,” said…
Thank you, Black America! Juneteenth pop-up rallies power of KC’s Black creatives
A celebration of Black America — and the critical work it’s done to begin breaking systemic cycles nationwide — is expected to launch soon in Kansas City, promising to shine a light on Black-owned businesses and creators, Kearra Johnson said. “As young, Black entrepreneurs in the city, we’ve been looking for ways to get our brands…
‘I have to make it’: Fanny Ruiz de Chavez refused service to failure; 16 months later, she’s still cooking
Story and photos by Channa Steinmetz, Startland News | Video by Catherine Hoffman, Flatland Sitting in fear was quickly off the menu for Fanny Ruiz de Chavez — told less than two months after her Lee’s Summit restaurant’s 2020 grand opening that she’d need to close down because of COVID-19 restrictions, she recalled. “I…
Five KC startups find home, validation in Techstars 2021 class; Up next: new markets
Joining the latest class of Techstars Kansas City is expected to help startups like afloat scale what’s worked in Kansas City into other markets, said Sarah-Allen Preston, founder of a KC gift-sending app that connects users’ social circles, communities, and businesses. “Being selected for Techstars is a great validation for afloat’s momentum after a year…
Give Black campaign for Black-run businesses, orgs eyes $80K goal by Juneteenth
Editor’s note: Give Black and Kansas City GIFT are non-financial partners of Startland, the parent organization of Startland News. This story was produced independently by Startland News’ non-profit newsroom. A newly launched campaign intended to back Black-owned businesses needs widespread community support to make the most impact, Brandon Calloway said, shedding light on why eight…
