Maria Flynn

Techstars KC 2021 demo day

Techstars’ summer finale means closing investment rounds for founders, says KC leader

Demo day is as much about looking forward as it is an examination of a startup’s journey through Techstars, Maria Flynn said, teasing new dollar deals ahead for the 2021 Kansas City cohort. “There are already a number of investment commitments coming in, so we are focused on closing the investment rounds so the companies…

Five KC startups find home, validation in Techstars 2021 class; Up next: new markets

Joining the latest class of Techstars Kansas City is expected to help startups like afloat scale what’s worked in Kansas City into other markets, said Sarah-Allen Preston, founder of a KC gift-sending app that connects users’ social circles, communities, and businesses. “Being selected for Techstars is a great validation for afloat’s momentum after a year…

Maria Flynn, Orbis Biosciences

Orbis exits: East Coast pharmaceutical firm acquires Lenexa biotech company

Injecting a Kansas startup into its global efforts will help New Jersey-based Adare Pharmaceuticals boost its core business and strengthen in-roads into animal health and over-the-counter (OTC) markets, the companies said Monday. Orbis Biosciences’ acquisition was finalized Thursday for an undisclosed amount. The startup — which focuses on licensing its technology to companies to optimize their…

Glitter and gratitude: Pipeline celebrates a decade of family in style

Glitz and glam; bold and gold; audacious and, more than ever, gracious. Each January, powerhouse businesspeople from around the Midwest venture to Kansas City to see if Pipeline Entrepreneurs can once again top its enchanting evening of entrepreneurial energy, now known as the Innovators. Hosted at the Midland Theater, the gala is a veritable smorgasbord…

Pipeline announces award finalists, judges for the Innovators

The Kansas City-based Pipeline Entrepreneurial Fellowship announced Friday the award finalists and national judging panel for its annual awards, the Innovators. Formerly known as Innovator of the Year, Pipeline’s culminating event is set for Jan. 26, during which 13 fellows from the region will pitch their firms to the judges. Later in the day, the…