Community Capital Fund

Panelists Kavya Shankar, Sam De Jong, and Jacob Wagner at the C3KC "Future of Neighborhoods" session

One-size-fits-all neighborhoods are a blueprint for development failure, C3KC panel says

Editor’s note: Startland News is a non-financial media sponsor of the 3CKC conference organized by the Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri. The formula for creating a vibrant neighborhood might seem simple, but replicating it between variable demographics, geographies and economies is more challenging than many planners think, said Kavya Shankar. “The strength of the…

Rightfully Sewn Mask Initiative; photo by Kim Golding

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…

64128 zip code, Kansas City, Missouri

‘Laser-focused’ microgrant investments aim to curb KCMO violence without law enforcement

Starting a small business can be key to lowering individuals’ risk for involvement in violent activities, as well as increasing household income and financial stability, according to a debut microgrant program that targets new and aspiring entrepreneurs. “We need to find new ways of providing hope and pathways forward in our city where there have…