Minority-Led Stories

Wesley Hamilton, Disabled But Not Really, and Karamo Brown, "Queer Eye"; image courtesy of Netflix

More than a makeover: ‘Queer Eye’ gives Wesley Hamilton an opportunity to thank the shooter who put him in a wheelchair

Wesley Hamilton’s clear vision for his potential impact took away the nerves while in front of cameras for Netflix’s “Queer Eye,” he said.  “Me being able to get on a show with that type of exposure and spread my message to those within my community and outside of it… I’m just really excited for the…

Brandon Love and Michelle Bolser, Alchemy Bath Co. Crumble

Bath boon: Crumble molds new product line, adding Alchemy Bath Co into its aromatic recipe

Like freshly poured wax, the latest product from Crumble Co. founder Brandon Love has cured in Kansas City — scented this time with collaboration as the company melts into a merger with Alchemy Bath Co., he explained.  “We came to them and were like, ‘Hey, can we order bath bombs from you?’ … We were…

Summer Trep Series

OHUB x KCUP set to debut ‘18th & Vine Summer Trep Series’ for black, Latinx startup builders

The first spoke of Opportunity Hub’s arrival in Kansas City debuts July 19 with a new monthly event series dedicated to business builders from black and Latinx communities. “This is a celebration of unity, creating a healthier ecosystem within Kansas City, Missouri,” said Jamilah Jones, a business development officer at the Economic Development Corporation of…

David Hensley, Bar K Dog Bar

People’s Choice startup Bar K Dog Bar planning new locations across the Midwest (and beyond)

After less than a year serving Frisbees and drinks along Kansas City’s riverfront, Bar K Dog Bar has a treat for two other Midwest markets: plans to expand the premier pet experience space to St. Louis and Oklahoma City. “Our ultimate goal is to be in five markets in the next three years and 10…

Tech pioneer Don Peterson to guide new LaunchKC-Nueterra health accelerator

Leading the new LaunchKC Health Accelerator is Don Peterson’s way of giving back to a community that opened its arms to his family nearly 30 years ago, he said.  “I’m proof that we can accomplish the entrepreneurial dream right here in KC and feel like it’s my duty to pay that forward,” said Peterson, a…