Startland News Staff

Sometimes we share credit. The “Staff Writer” byline appears on stories reported, written, or edited collaboratively by members of the Startland News team — especially for quick hits and breaking news.

Recent Stories by Startland News Staff

How industry investors are fueling Block and Mortar’s vision for a real estate tech hub in KC

Kansas City is uniquely positioned to become the real estate development and built capital of the United States, said Usman Wajid, announcing a strategic investment from two infrastructure and development-focused construction firms that already dug lasting legacies in the region.

KC-built Attane Health merges with digital grocery pioneer to forge food-is-medicine platform

The merger offers scale neither business could achieve alone, the companies said, noting a rapidly changing industry landscape that is creating both urgency and opportunity.

Made in KC owners selected for Junior Achievement hall of fame alongside trio of business leaders

“These outstanding leaders have not only shaped our region through their work, but they’re also setting a powerful example for the next generation,” said Megan Sturges. “Their stories show the thousands of students we serve each year what’s possible, inspiring them to chase their passions and become the positive change they envision for their communities."

NXTUS launches alumni collective to keep founders connected to resources after programs end

The journey doesn’t end with an end-of-cohort pitch showcase, NXTUS leaders said this week, debuting a new network for alumni of its portfolio of Wichita-based entrepreneur growth programs.

Populous acquires longtime collaborator, adding OJB Landscape Architecture to its urban design portfolio

A Houston-based firm playing a key role in the vision for a sprawling urban park — spanning a capped section of I-670 in downtown Kansas City — is joining the portfolio of a high-profile global design firm with its own foundations set just blocks away.

Meet your World Cup neighbors: Open Doors! reveals 20+ business, artist activations 

Nearly two dozen small businesses, artists, and organizations will move into vacant storefronts this summer as part of an initiative to keep Kansas City’s local business ecosystem at the epicenter of FIFA World Cup action — and beyond, said Nia Webster.

WellSky Foundation opens technology hubs to serve Kansas Citians rebooting from homelessness

Two new technology centers — embedded within organizations already offering critical resources — are expected to help expand access to digital skills and employment opportunities for individuals experiencing housing instability.

More than a check: How a Google partnership is fueling an OnRamp to AI education at Keystone

Twin AI education programs launching this spring and summer at Keystone CoLabs serve as proof points for what corporate-community partnerships can look like when designed for lasting impact rather than optics, said Kevin McGinnis. 

Kauffman unveils ‘Visionary Award’ to honor legacy builders on KC nonprofit scene

The top visionary honored with the inaugural Uncommon Leader Visionary Award will receive $75,000, and their organization will receive an additional $150,000 to advance mission impact and extend what’s working.

Just funded: Digital Health KC taps 8 KC startups for new ‘Accelerate’ project grants

A $332,750 tranche of newly announced project-based funding is designed to propel promising digital health companies toward their next critical milestones, said Dick Flanigan, emphasizing pathways from technology advancements to product validation.