Government Stories

Let’s eat out: KCMO wants more outdoor dining; new grants program pays for restaurant upgrades 

Outdoor dining’s economic impact outlasted the pandemic, said Mayor Quinton Lucas. A new push to boost KCMO businesses — with the backing of city tourism dollars — is expected to help local restaurants, coffee shops, and bars embrace the opportunity, he said. His goal: Make outdoor dining spaces even more attractive to visitors and hometown…

Pitch prize puts founders closer to building their utopia; How KCMO is backing entrepreneurs who do the right thing

Hearing the personal reasons behind judges’ support for her business at the “Do The Right Thing” social impact pitch competition provides much-needed validation for Utopia Point, said Shereese Hameed-Muhammad. The business — launched by Patricia McCreary and Hameed-Muhammad to redesign the geriatric and disabled care community in Kansas City and beyond — was the overwhelming favorite…

Lawmakers announce $500K federal grant for KC BioHub, tout region’s job creation, innovation

Kansas City’s “top-notch” research capabilities and talented workforce prove the region is ready to lead the country in innovation, said Sharice Davids, revealing news that the local Tech Hubs initiative would receive another $500,000 in federal funding. The award for the Kansas City Inclusive Biologics and Biomanufacturing Tech Hub (KC BioHub) comes less than a…

Missouri to create ‘Office of Entrepreneurship,’ prioritize access for emerging ventures

Newly signed legislation — part of a nationwide Right to Start initiative with roots in Kansas City — is expected to boost starters across Missouri, advocates said this week, and reflects broad public and bipartisan support for eliminating barriers for new entrepreneurs and overlooked business owners. “Advancing entrepreneurship will energize the Missouri economy,” said Missouri…

Lawmaker lauds historic significance of minority chambers’ Ward Parkway collaboration, address

Editor’s note: This story was originally published by Kansas City PBS/Flatland, a member of the Kansas City Media Collective, which also includes Startland News, KCUR 89.3, American Public Square, The Kansas City Beacon, and Missouri Business Alert. Click here to read the original story. The tony address is not lost on anyone. Ward Parkway, symbolic of Kansas…