News Stories

K-State accelerator opens applications to startups; university dives deeper into regional K-State 105 initiative

Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro.  MANHATTAN, Kansas — Sunflower State startups are invited to apply for Kansas State University’s entrepreneurship accelerator, which now boasts a more-than-10-year track record, as well as a refined focus on…

Prefix Coffee opens another shop in downtown KC, pulling closer to drive-thru service

Owners of the family-run Prefix Coffee hope its newest location in downtown Kansas City will make the shop — known for its in-house roasted specialty coffee and fresh pastries — the go-to spot for the nearby Power & Light District and government buildings surrounding City Hall. The Prefix Coffee space at 1125 Grand Blvd opened…

Jackie Nguyen, founder and owner of Cafe Cà Phê, and her team accept first-place honors in the James and Rae Block Kansas City Startup Awards at the Regnier Venture Creation Challenge

Competition opening its call for startups to pitch at UMKC (founders who’ve finished growing need not apply)

UMKC’s support for entrepreneurship doesn’t stop at the edge of campus, said Adam Larson, detailing plans for another startup competition between established Kansas City companies during this spring’s Regnier Venture Creation Challenge. Non-student-led companies with headquarters in Kansas City are eligible to compete in the James and Rae Block Kansas City Startup Awards. Applications open…

Superstars’ palette of impact dips into diverse industries: Here’s how a KC muralist creates his own economic progress

Each individual brush stroke plays a role in painting the broader picture of economic development in Kansas City, said Daniel Montoute, reflecting on how a single entrepreneur can impact the region within the collective blend of communities. “As a small business rooted in the heart of Kansas City, we are proud to contribute to the…

Down for donuts: How this team is sweetening Chiefs’ Super Bowl sugar rush with Mr. D’s(fense)

Another return trip to the Super Bowl has Kansas City small businesses joining the Chiefs as behind-the-scenes special teams fueling the Kingdom. For entrepreneur Johnny Chen, the mere taste of victory just a few years ago has multiplied into a box-full of opportunities. “The Chiefs’ success has impacted our sales tremendously,” said Chen, co-owner of…