Transportant picked a lane; now the Lenexa bus tech startup wants to conquer even more of the road
From the driver’s seat, Martin Staples is steering Lenexa-based Transportant toward rapid growth with its real-time, tech-driven approach, he said, bringing greater safety, communication, and efficiency to school buses and expanding the startup’s reach beyond its Midwest home region. Fueling Transportant’s plans to leave coast-to-coast tracks — and beyond — will be key, said Staples, who…
Read MorePitch winners step into spotlight as PHKC helps emerging small biz owners shine on stage (Photos)
Jacquinta Nelson stood before a packed crowd at The Porter House KC’s Pitch Night this week, sharing her vision for S.T.E.P. Movement, a community-based step team designed to uplift young girls. Moments later, she was awarded a $4,000 grand prize. The recognition was deeply personal for Nelson, who is dedicated to mentoring youth to be…
Read MoreWhat comes after the World Cup? Leaders ponder KC’s next phase (and how to get there)
Editor’s note: The following is the first in a four-part series exploring the verticals and impact of initiatives within the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City through a paid partnership with EDCKC. EDCKC leader: Tapping Kansas City’s full potential requires coordinated eco devo strategy across region Tracey Lewis has lived and worked in some of…
Read MoreClock is ticking on World Cup 2026: Small businesses urged to prepare before this buzzer-beater
A massive influx of visitors are expected next year when more than 600,000 fans descend on Kansas City for its piece of the FIFA World Cup 2026 prize, but potential roadblocks lie ahead for small business owners who are waiting for the action instead of preparing now to capitalize on it, said local leaders. “This…
Read MoreWhy KCMO pushed to lock down ‘Kansas City’ brand ahead of its biggest sports event yet
With World Cup visitors already eyeing plane tickets to Kansas City for matches opening in June 2026, clarity around what constitutes “Kansas City” will be key, said Quinton Lucas, who in late 2024 made moves to restrict labeling the city’s name on certain projects. The effort aims to authentically represent KCMO on the world’s stage,…
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