Latest Stories
KC needs elevated ambience, founder says; how her soon-to-open Westwood home store sets the table for ‘touches of trend’
The moment local shoppers — aspiring to better entertain friends and loved ones — heard what Sarah Brown’s online store was offering, her home and lifestyle business “just blew up,” she said, detailing the demand now pushing the brand’s jump to brick and mortar. “It showed that people in Kansas City need and want what…
She came to Kansas seeing a land of opportunity; now her just-launched bookstore opens doors for Black creatives
Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro. WICHITA — Latasha N. Eley Kelly’s new storefront not only combines her love of books, education, and supporting local creatives, she said; Left on Read also serves as a unique community…
Quincy Lee’s imagination never stops working; thanks to a life-saving camera, neither does he
An introverted “creativepreneur,” Quincy Lee juggles video content creation, co-owning a digital marketing agency, designing his own apparel, and fatherhood — all while bringing bold ideas into focus. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur all my life,” Lee said, reflecting on the early days of his journey. “It started small, but it planted the seed for…
New Westport coffee shop hopes to crown a fresh local favorite in the spot that launched Ruby Jean’s
Move over, office coffee pot; Tamara Grubb’s workspace brews its own premium drinks Tamara Grubb was just looking for a nice office space when she walked into a Westport building — a long-ago gas station with a distinctive double-A frame roof that once launched the popular Ruby Jean’s Juicery brand. Her first thought: This space…
Blue collar Friday: Why a KC streetwear project in the works for a decade could sell out in one night
A just-dropped collaboration between two Crossroads makers stitch together neighborhood history and vintage streetwear, according to the creatives behind the SewKC and MADE MOBB brands. “We’re paying homage to the craftsmanship of the past but bringing it into this new age,” explained Jesse Phouanphet, co-owner of the popular Kansas City streetwear apparel company MADE MOBB. …
Raven Space Systems lands Forbes 30 Under 30 honor, re-entering spotlight after funding news
One of Kansas City’s most promising startups of the year has seen its fortunes rocket to the skies over the past three weeks, capped by a high-profile honor in the national media: a spot on the coveted Forbes 30 Under 30 list. “Building Raven Space Systems has been a very challenging journey and I am…
Missouri lawmaker urges SBA change to ease access to federal funds for digital tools
Government red tape is getting in the way of entrepreneurs’ ability to compete, said Mark Alford, detailing his efforts in Washington, D.C. to ensure affordable, equitable access to and use of “digital technologies” — especially when the federal government is involved, he added. “Small businesses are the fabric of America, driving innovation and growth,” said…
Golftech startup raises $675K seed round, swinging for franchise expansion and commercial tech launch
A Lenexa-based tech company focused on accelerating skills for avid golfers hit a funding milestone this week, announcing a seed round meant to bridge the gap between on-course and off-course play through its innovative physical and digital solutions. Albatross Golf — which boasts two flagship offerings: GolfTRK and Noonan — on Tuesday shared news of…
Naughty or nice night for a drink: Your guide to Kansas City holiday bar getaways
The holiday spirit shows up in some unexpected places this year, with festively themed pop-up bars and nightlife experiences jingling through the season at nearly 30 Kansas City area businesses and venues — from the world’s loudest stadium to the smallest speakeasies. “The Gingerbread is our way of bringing extra holiday cheer to the heart…
Ice Cream BAE founder turns to Laotian home-cooking, offering up Mama’s egg rolls from new Lenexa noodle spot
Lenexa Public Market will soon be home to a new kitchen serving a mix of authentic flavors from Laos and Thailand — an authentic-to-home concept from an entrepreneur known for bringing fresh culinary experiences to diners from North Kansas City to South Johnson County. Chef and owner Adison Sichampanakhone plans a January opening for Saap…
