Jill Meyer

Just funded: Digital Sandbox KC drops the hook for three more emerging tech startups

From optimizing trucking logistics to revolutionizing peer-to-peer recommendations and streamlining compliance with AI, the latest startups funded by Digital Sandbox KC are poised to make a significant impact in their industries, said Jill Meyer.  “We’ve been truly impressed by the expertise and passion these founders bring to the table,” said Meyer, senior director of Technology…

Exited founders: Face the tough conversations first; avoid a messy post-honeymoon breakup

Preparing for an exit begins with co-founder alignment at the startup’s launch, three veteran Kansas City founders agreed. “You are getting married to your founders,” explained Tony Caudill, who co-founded two tech startups with his best friend — including aware3, which was acquired in 2018 by Nelnet. “Just like when you find your mate of…

Just funded: Meet the newest Digital Sandbox KC startups (and see what they’re building now)

Digital Sandbox KC this week announced five new startups joining its program that will receive crucial support, mentorship and up to $20,000 in project funding to accelerate their innovative projects.  “We are delighted to bring these cutting-edge startups into the Sandbox, connecting them with the necessary support and resources to advance their innovative projects,” said…

These founders just earned Digital Sandbox KC funds; next comes proving their concepts

A trio of newly funded Digital Sandbox KC companies includes a closely-guarded startup launched by an exited Pipeline founder who also helped bring headline-grabbing sports tech to the forefront of the Kansas City innovation scene. Mission Hills, Kansas-based Chemniscient (pronounced kemʹniSH(Ə)nt) is currently operating confidentially and is not disclosing any product information to the public…

Jill Meyer, UMKC Innovation Center

Digital Sandbox KC secures $450K to support startups’ prototyping, proof-of-concept needs

As Digital Sandbox KC marks its 10th year in 2024, the popular funding program — and a key marker of emerging success for young tech startups in Kansas City — has earned a new round of financial backing from the State of Missouri. Spread over three years, a $450,000 MOBEC (Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity) project grant…