News Stories

NXTUS is helping five emerging KC innovators gain customer traction; ‘Timing is right,’ startup founders say 

A handful of Kansas City startups were among 22 early stage companies gathered in Wichita this week for the opening session of a program aimed at growing strong, sustainable businesses that uplift innovation and opportunity throughout the Heartland. The 2026 NXTSTAGE Customer Traction Cohort program on Wednesday welcomed founders from buildNest and Pitchster, Olathe, Kansas;…

Inside the MNDSHFT: Raw conversations stare into the entrepreneur struggle; strength stares back

A new video series from an acclaimed Kansas City creator dives into the daily routines, mental shifts, and no-BS strategies behind building businesses and lives that matter, said Quincy Lee, emphasizing episodes built to redefine the hustle mindset. The first three features within the MNDSHFT series premiere today — produced by Social Apex Media and…

Want to help KC’s new favorite rapper meme Missouri? This one’s for you

Riverside-born creator Lil String unravels viral comedy from everyday Kansas City destinations; Here’s how internet culture is translating into real-world turnout From his cowboy hat to his boots, Lil String doesn’t take himself too seriously, he said. The rapper, comedian and content creator is rapidly building a local following by blending humor, music and hyper-specific…

Boulevard building outdoor ‘Yard’ space for added bar, patio capacity ahead of World Cup

Construction began Wednesday on a new second-story outdoor bar and patio space at Boulevard Brewing Co. — bridging the popular tourist and recreation destination to its nearby parking garage — with an early summer opening planned just in time for the world’s largest soccer tournament. “We’ve dreamed of having our own backyard hangout at the…

Transportant launches school bus stop arm camera to tag drivers who blow past students

The latest technology from a Kansas-based leader in school bus safety captures the license plates of law-breakers via full-color digital imaging that can be used to alert law enforcement officials who can then issue citations and hold drivers in violation accountable. The product launch from Transportant comes during a time of expansion for the Lenexa…