News Stories

Thee Outpost

Explore inside: Thee Outpost offers fresh brew of Thou Mayest, Collective Ex coffee-creative collaboration (Photos)

The way is open and a new era has begun for Kansas City’s dreamers, doers, makers, and caffeinated creators.  “I’m really pulling that curtain back [and letting] makers do what they do,” explained Johnny Dawbarn, founder of Collective Ex — a collaborative of artisans, designers and creatives at 519 E. 18th St., now open to…

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…

Laura McCoolidge, Sofia Fund

Minneapolis angel investment firm expanding to KC, names McCoolidge managing partner

A former leader of the Mid-America Angels fund could be the secret to establishing Minneapolis-based Sofia Fund as a new investment resource for women-led companies within Kansas City, said Cathy Connett. “The Midwest continues to be a hub of startup activity,’ said Connett, Sofia Fund CEO. “Extending our footprint to Kansas City gives us access…

Pure Pitch Rally 2018, photo by Mikaela Wendel Photography

Pure Pitch Rally returning in October with spot-cash funding; applications open now

The land sharks are already hungry for Kansas City’s top tech talent, said Karen Fenaroli, announcing the planned return of the Pure Pitch Rally this fall. “Not only does Pure Pitch Rally provide startups with the opportunity to earn much-needed cash funding, it gives local entrepreneurs direct access to the resources and people in our…