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
Two Kansas City tech startups selected for newly rebranded T-Mobile Accelerator
Innovative drone technology and smart apartment management solutions helped two Kansas City startups earn spots among the freshly launched T-Mobile Accelerator’s six-company cohort. Aware Vehicles, led by PJ Piper, and Homebase, founded by Blake Miller, were announced Tuesday as members of the 2020 program, formerly the Sprint Accelerator. The 90-day accelerator began earlier this month…
Investor survey: Angels plan to keep capital flowing to startups, but amounts likely to decline
Editor’s note: The following is part of Startland News’ ongoing coverage of the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Kansas City’s entrepreneur community, as well as how innovation is helping to drive a new normal in the ecosystem. Click here to follow related stories as they develop. COVID-19 won’t stop most angel investors — though they likely will rethink…
Drink it in: Nine agtech, dairy startups bring innovation, sustainability to 2020 DFA Accelerator
An all-natural sports drink made from dairy by-products; handheld pizza and Philly cheesesteak cones; a green fashion brand that’s creating T-shirts from excess milk; and a hand-crafted spirit made from whey — innovative tastes of an American industry known for its most classic component: milk. Nine startups — hailing from across the nation and globe…
16 winners: Micro-grant competition debuts with $30K in prizes to entrepreneurs who ‘need funds the most’
Not all early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses qualify for federal disaster loans, prompting an even greater need for programs like the new Dare to Venture Micro-Grant Competition, according to the Urban Business Growth Initiative. “At a critical time when small businesses need funds the most, the program offered a total of $30,000 in micro-grants to…
This KC-created handheld home gym just became the highest-funded fitness product ever on Kickstarter
The OYO Nova Gym passed a massive crowdfunding milestone Saturday morning — raising $1.6 million in pre-sales for the Kansas City company and becoming the most-funded fitness product in Kickstarter history. And OYO’s campaign still has a month to go. “The OYO team has worked hard to develop fitness devices that fit in anyone’s lifestyle,”…
KCMO mayor, Made in KC launch portal for face masks, hand sanitizer made by more than 50 local makers
Editor’s note: The following is part of Startland News’ ongoing coverage of the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Kansas City’s entrepreneur community, as well as how innovation is helping to drive a new normal in the ecosystem. Click here to follow related stories as they develop. Kansas City’s gradual return to business doesn’t mean the need for face…
Watch UMKC’s E-Scholars Demo Day: Scrappy founders challenged by pandemic
Entrepreneurs are needed now more than ever, said Alex Krause Matlack. “Had this year gone as normal, the E-Scholars would have held a live demo day this week for the community to showcase the hard work they put into their companies, and to give the founders access to a broader network of community members to…
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…
Airbnb official: We’ll help KC police crack down on illegal parties during COVID-19
Editor’s note: The following is part of Startland News’ ongoing coverage of the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Kansas City’s entrepreneur community, as well as how innovation is helping to drive a new normal in the ecosystem. Click here to follow related stories as they develop. Think twice before snagging a short-term rental for your graduation house party…
Mayor’s ‘lifeline’ arrives: EDCKC opens applications for small biz relief fund pledged by Lucas
Editor’s note: The following is part of Startland News’ ongoing coverage of the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Kansas City’s entrepreneur community, as well as how innovation is helping to drive a new normal in the ecosystem. Click here to follow related stories as they develop. Funds from a small business relief loan program teased by KCMO Mayor…