Woman-led Stories
NXTUS launches pilot competition for startups in Northwest Arkansas, fueled by $500K Walton grant
WICHITA — A Kansas-built innovation program is hitting the road — applying its successful model to Northwest Arkansas in a bid to expand growth opportunities for more early-stage companies and make the region a proving ground for technology that boosts health and economic vitality. Wichita-based NXTUS this week announced HealthCatalyst NWA, a pilot initiative that aims…
Kauffman’s first ‘Uncommon Leader’ seeks dignity, empathy and humanity in care for KC’s most vulnerable
Earning the spotlight Thursday as the Kauffman Foundation’s first Uncommon Leader award winner, Dr. Rachel Melson paused to enjoy a moment of hope in a year filled with urgent need, she said. Launched to honor Kansas City community members who are creating lasting change through bold and compassionate action, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation’s Uncommon…
Icorium earns $1.2M SBIR grant; CEO Kalin Baca honored as 2025 Enterprising Innovator
A just-announced infusion of federal grant dollars is expected to help a Lawrence startup scale its breakthrough technology from pilot validation to a full commercial process — boosting efforts to dramatically reduce the climate impact of refrigerants used in air conditioners, heat pumps and refrigeration systems. Icorium Engineering Company on Wednesday released details of a…
Off to a goo start: Step into the primetime slime experience now oozing into Union Station
Taking the idea of handmade slime from the home kitchen to Union Station required more than a simple recipe, the women behind the new all-ages experiential venture said. Their biggest challenge in taking the popular kids activity to the masses: the complex planning and design needed within the iconic Kansas City venue. Rainbow Slime Co….
New Maker of the Year: Why this mom’s side hustle for the girly girls couldn’t stay at home
A hobbyist venture that began with making shirts for her kids has earned Julie Swopes a spot on Made in KC’s shelves for her Chiefs- and Royals-inspired tees — along with one of the local-first retailer’s top honors: KC New Maker of the Year for 2025. “I’m just a stay-at-home mom that has turned her…
