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

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.

Airbnb invests $100K in city’s World Cup push to get pop-up businesses into storefronts

The goal for Open Doors! goes beyond small businesses checking in, then promptly checking out once the FIFA World Cup ends, said Tracey Lewis, announcing a $100,000 investment from Airbnb to help expand long-term opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

KC allergist raises $200K to launch exposure-building immunity droplets for infants

A Kansas City physician-turned-founder has secured $200,000 in pre-launch funding to scale a solution that boosts healthy immune development in infants through early childhood with consistent exposure to food proteins.

Great Jobs KC awarded $3.8M+ Patterson grant to expand rural workforce training into Kansas, Missouri 

A three-year grant from the Patterson Family Foundation is expected to help Great Jobs KC bring life-changing training and wraparound support services to workers in rural counties on both sides of the state line, said Earl Martin Phalen. 

Parent company’s latest acquisition pours new beer brand into Boulevard’s production lineup

An acquisition by Boulevard Brewing Co.’s parent company will shift production to the Kansas City facility on Southwest Boulevard — tapping into local expertise and workflow management efficiencies, said Bobby Dykstra.

KC native, active-duty Army officer brings the Kentucky bourbon brand he founded to his home state

Adding H.K. Young Bourbon Co. to select shelves in Kansas is a milestone with deep personal significance, said founder Cole "CG" Hanna, who was inspired to build the brand during his time stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, near the Bourbon Trail.

West Bottoms Plant Company grows into Lawrence with new sister shop along Mass Street

A freshly potted location in downtown Lawrence not only propagates a local brand’s signature blend of plants and local goods in a new home, said Austin Mosier; it opens the door to inclusive experiences for plant enthusiasts, DIY crafters and hobbyists of all skill levels.