KC Chamber honorees renew commitment to diversity efforts out of conviction, not obligation
The world is a scary place right now, Jay Herron acknowledged, telling attendees of the KC Chamber’s POWER of Diversity Luncheon that it’s more important than ever not to back down from corporate and business initiatives built around strengthening inclusion for all.
KC tech leaders: AI developed without women, diverse voices could bring real-world harm
“I always tell women: ‘Staying away from AI or completely ignoring it is not doing anybody good,’” said Maliha Khan, CEO and founder of consultancy Khanect the Dots. “You control how much or how little of AI you use.”
Winning element: KU-linked startup mines critical spot-cash support at Pure Pitch Rally
Bri Farris was a little surprised at the backing — and stack of novelty checks — given to Electravera at Monday’s Pure Pitch Rally, she said, even though her startup’s innovative electrochemical process to recover high-purity lithium and cobalt derivatives tracks well with the region’s momentum around critical materials.
Iconic entrepreneur’s spirit pours into ‘Sarah’s Blend’ amid KC fundraiser for Black Movie Hall of Fame
Every cup needs filled, said coffee co-founder Reggie Harris, noting sometimes the richest flavors come from unexpected sources. His latest blend draws inspiration from a community in search of its own roast and the legacy of an entrepreneur who refused to let her own pot go cold.
How a $10K Folklore grant bloomed at just the right moment for this struggling small business
After her Bloom With Love flower shop flooded in summer 2025, an unexpected grant win from the Folklore initiative served as a sign from the universe to keep going, Olivia Esquivel shared. Her store is now flowering along the KC Streetcar line with new opportunities.