Latest Stories
How two hungry vegan sisters went from making queso to their own storefront on Holmes
Arvelisha Woods and India Monique just wanted to style hair and eat nachos, the duo said, breaking into laughter. “It all started with being hungry,” Monique recalled, with Woods emphasizing the “hungry.” The sisters behind Mattie’s Foods went on a fast in 2015 as part of their mission work. They took what they loved the…
Overland Park startup partners with Cosentino’s for time-saving automation in KC grocery stores
As a way to compete and thrive against major retailers like Walmart and Safeway, independent grocers are turning toward software that automates manual tasks — resulting in reduced errors and increased efficiency, John Epperson said. Such software exists because Epperson, co-founder of Overland Park-based Retail Software Solutions Group, saw a gap in the market and…
Holiday cheers: Christmas pop-up bar back with pandemic twist; festive spirits return Nov. 6
There’s no stealing Christmas for local bar owners as they prepare to unwrap various holiday-themed pop-up experiences — despite a Grinch of a pandemic that’s upended sales for much of the year. Sippin’ Santa is expected to return to Westport-crafted Julep Cocktail Club as a reimagined, curbside pop-up next month, Keely Edgington told Startland News. “If…
Redivus Health earns ticket to Germany-based accelerator thanks to seeds planted by Plug and Play
Plug and Play promised regional connectivity when the international network of accelerators announced plans for a Topeka-based program, and it’s already paying off for one Kansas City-grown startup — before the Kansas accelerator even launches. “Don’t ever turn down an opportunity to meet somebody or be introduced to somebody — because you never know where things are…
‘Cabin fever is real’: No Vacancy books a hometown escape to your own personal hotel
In contrast to its neon name, No Vacancy offers plenty of room for staycationing Kansas Citians at its newly-opened Crossroads hotel — a cozy getaway for pandemic-grounded guests looking to recharge without the risk of travel, said Spencer Sight. “Cabin fever is real and this place has the ability to transport you elsewhere,” said Sight,…
As seen on Troost (and Ellen): Plus-size thrift store owner uses momentum to inspire others
Alesha Bowman had plans March 15 to celebrate the two-year anniversary of her plus-size thrift store, UnLESHed+, by opening a new storefront on the historic Troost Avenue. But on March 14, a nationwide pandemic forced Bowman’s plans to be entirely reworked. “You just have to pivot,” Bowman said, noting that she used Facebook and Instagram…
From finding SARS in sewers to brewing better beer, InnovaPrep scales tech from KC cleanroom
As COVID-19 began to spread, InnovaPrep could almost immediately see the reason why — and it’s a realization that has gained the startup some serious traction, explained David Alburty. “All the puzzle pieces fit neatly in place for us. The high transmission rate without definitive contact was one of the biggest tells,” added Alburty, the Drexel,…
Rightfully Sewn acquisition stitches new path toward re-establishing KC as garment capital, Lapka says
Rightfully Sewn’s acquisition by a 109-year-old nonprofit with national reach means more contracts, more employees and more impact for the mission-focused fashion company, said Jennifer Lapka. “No shakeups, no drama. The brand, programs, and team will stay intact,” said Lapka, founder of Rightfully Sewn, which this week announced a merger with Kansas City-based Alphapointe. “We…
Guadalupe Centers gala, ofrenda pass from physical to virtual world; pandemic could reshape cultural traditions
It’s not a normal year, Alyx Bartrom said, acknowledging the obvious and embracing opportunities to innovate a more-than-30-year-old community tradition. “You have to either adapt or you get left behind,” Bartrom, director of fund development and marketing for Guadalupe Centers, said of the century-old non-profit and social service agency’s upcoming Blanco y Negro Awards Gala…
Vine Online artist preview: A look inside Vine Street Studio’s first-ever virtual art show
Kay Hansley is a doula, seamstress, art teacher, dietary manager and artist. She pulls inspiration from all aspects of her life, she said, and isn’t scared to take risks. “We should never feel afraid to express ourselves and let people see the real us. This was my first time really being able to explain how…
