Latest Stories
Truth, not Troost: Ruby Jean’s founder wants East Side corridor renamed over slavery ties
Despite its widely-known street name, “Troost Avenue” does not accurately represent the small businesses, nonprofits and families along the increasingly dense Kansas City corridor, said Chris Goode. “So many beautiful efforts take place on Troost — from The Combine to Operation Breakthrough or Urban Cafe and Rockhurst University… We are all collectively pushing for community,…
New focus will offer jobs to formerly incarcerated people on the path to second chance entrepreneurship, says nonprofit
Kansas City-based Determination, Incorporated is refocusing its mission with a new social enterprise business that will directly place formerly incarcerated individuals into employment soon after they return home. Strong Start Make Readies is expected to provide jobs to people exiting incarceration as members of make ready crews at Kansas City area apartment complexes, single-family rental…
Kauffman leader: Our economy can’t afford to leave half the population behind; there’s a new way forward
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Wendy Guillies is president and CEO of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Startland News is financially supported by the Kauffman Foundation and other sponsors. This commentary originally appeared in The Hill. I am not oblivious to the political divisions that dominate national news outlet…
J. Rieger spices up its strategy with KC culinary star; new tastes already hitting destination distillery’s menu
Deep fried and doubling down, the minds behind J. Rieger and Co. are distilling a new era that’s expected to make the local tourist destination one of Kansas City’s best places to work — and to grab one of its most legendary spicy chicken sandwiches. “If you didn’t already know, you quickly come in here and…
Why many ‘deskless’ workers think management is out of touch — the good news: tech can fill the gap
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Bob Butler, chief customer officer at SafetyCulture, which has its U.S. headquarters in Kansas City’s Crossroads Arts District, oversees operations for the global tech company and has led it through its greatest stages of growth. Click here to read more about SafetyCulture’s strategy…
Crush it, live hard and honor the 13 folds: Trio of KC gyms join intense challenge, salute sacrifice
Most Americans don’t know the true weight of these American flags — folded 13 times into a triangle and presented to a fallen service member or veteran’s next of kin, said Josie Buford. To better communicate the heavy burden they represent, she organized a physical challenge that’s uniting three Kansas City businesses. The 13 Folds…
Attack of the 40-foot Community Builders: KC changemakers celebrated at Power & Light (Photos)
Coworkers, fans and family members of this year’s Community Builders to Watch pulled up to the big screen Wednesday at Power & Light to see five of their favorite changemakers honored for efforts to improve Kansas City. Videos showcasing the select community builders — nominated by Startland News readers and members of the public — played on…
Inclusivity succeeds when founders are held accountable, says winner of Chamber’s equity award
Fahteema Parrish doesn’t mind putting forward extra work to make sure her employees feel included, she shared, embracing an environment that supports individuals of all backgrounds. “Parrish & Sons Construction is an example of what intentional execution of equitable work within an organization actually looks like. Equality and inclusivity are key focal points as my…
KC scores 2026 World Cup for Arrowhead; games expected to mean big business for region’s economy
Fans rallied in near-triple-digit heat Thursday in the heart of Kansas City as the region scored a longtime goal: earning a spot on the roster of 16 host cities for the coming 2026 FIFA World Cup. “To be named a host city for not only the biggest single sport event in history, but as part…
Tiki Taco’s iconic curly fry-filled burritos riding wave to Troost storefront near UMKC, Rockhurst
Originating as a gas station in the 1950s, the vacant but charming building at 5400 Troost Ave caught the attention of Lyndon and Lindsey Wade. The brothers realized it would be the perfect place to expand their California-inspired Mexican restaurant, Tiki Taco, Lyndon Wade said. “We love the feeling of something unique and standalone,” shared…
