News Stories

Just funded: Meet the newest Digital Sandbox KC startups to earn project innovation resources

The latest round of Digital Sandbox KC funding reflects the region’s commitment to emerging digital health companies — as well as industry-agnostic ventures with big, bold ideas, said Jill Meyer. “These seven startups have shown they have what it takes to be pioneers in their industries, and we’re honored to be able to propel them…

Look inside: Switchyards teases its new KC work club, sells out memberships in hours

Switchyards’ first foray into the region — officially debuting Monday within Kansas City’s East Crossroads — is even prettier than its designers expected, Brandon Hinman said.  “And that’s a high mark,” the Switchyards creative director told Startland News. “This big, beautiful, old warehouse is a new neighborhood work club.” Atlanta-based Switchyards — a third-space workplace…

Dual attractions at vineyard disc golf course bring hole-in-one for this Kansas entrepreneur trio

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.  EDGERTON, Kansas — A rural Douglas County family is pairing its award-winning Kansas table wine with 18 holes of disc golf and earning national recognition in the process, Christy Fuller-Flyntz shared….

Peek inside: Engenious Design expands its hands-on R&D collaboration space in Prairie Village

A 56,000-square-foot design center for his business is about more than just space, said Chris Justice; it’s what’s inside the high-tech facility by design: people. “Our work of designing, prototyping and testing is hands-on with specialized tools and equipment. That means our team works together, in person,” said Justice, co-founder, principal and CEO of Engenious…

How a Missouri native’s high-tech, faith-based bracelet company found inner peace in California

The emotional rollercoaster of social media can take a toll on mental health, said Gary Rakes, a Raymore, Missouri, native who saw an opportunity to create a digital safe space — one that lives on a user’s wrist.  His business, Free Luma, offers a line of RFID-enabled bracelets designed to connect others through positivity and…