Woman-led Stories

Govs. Laura Kelly, D-Kansas, and Mike Parson, R-Missouri

Report: Kansas, Missouri economies hinge on homegrown startups, not border war wins

Kansas and Missouri must “grow from within” if the neighboring states aim to successfully confront structural challenges that face their economies, said Amy Liu, a contributor at national think tank the Brookings Institution. The “historic handshake” between Govs. Laura Kelly, D-Kansas, and Mike Parson, R-Missouri, earlier this month marked the symbolic end to an ongoing…

Laura Manivong, Fattyhead Keto Crust

Fattyhead feeds demand for keto-friendly pizza crust; What’s the founder’s secret?

Fattyhead began as a labor of love: a path toward a more healthful diet that transformed into a booming business for Kansas City native Laura Manivong. “I started feeling better, I started having energy and my body stopped hurting as much,” said Manivong, creator of her own low-carb, ketogenic pizza crust.  Manivong’s journey started 18…

Crystal German, Prosperity Labs, Startland's Innovation Exchange

Innovation versus inclusive prosperity: Can hub developers create both in Kansas City?

Place and prosperity go hand-in-hand, said William Dowdell. Less clear, however, is how developers and communities will strike a balance in their efforts to generate innovation and wealth in Kansas City. “Geography is a big part of this. When we talk about expanding opportunity and bringing innovation, we also have to look at those spaces…

Jennifer Lapka, Rightfully Sewn, photo courtesy of Rightfully Sewn

Rightfully Sewn awarded first government grant to expand workforce development effort

A $25,000 grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration is expected to help push Rightfully Sewn closer to its goal of community impact through seamstress training. The Crossroads-based venture — with its glimmering atelier focused on economic development via the fashion industry — was among 12 winners of the SBA’s Makerspace Training, Collaboration and Hiring…

Natalie and Bill Busch, TiScrubs, with the Royals' Sluggerrr

With an athletic look and fit, North KC’s TiScrubs aims to be the ‘Nike of scrubs’

The endurance and durability of TiScrubs help give medical professionals servicing children the air of an athlete stepping onto the field, said Natalie Busch. Founder of the North Kansas City startup, Busch saw the need for updated medical wear when working Team Smile, a nonprofit run by her husband, Bill, which partners with sports teams…