Minority-Led Stories

Founder earns Pipeline’s ‘best pitch,’ says network’s lifelong support is the real award

Pipeline judges announced Megan O’Rear had the best pitch Thursday, but the Celerity Enterprises founder was left momentarily speechless when they named her winner of the group’s annual showcase and competition. “It just validates coming back to Kansas City,” said O’Rear, who also serves as the startup’s CEO. “Pipeline wants to help everybody that they…

KC Chamber’s Superstars celebration empowers everyday small business heroes 

Editor’s note: The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce is a non-financial partner of Startland News, which serves as the media partner for the Small Business Superstars program. The Blueprint KC has come a long way, said Sheraz Pompey, emphasizing the meaningful impact of being showcased as one of the KC Chamber’s Small Business Superstars….

U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, Wednesday at Ronawk in Olathe

Davids’ effort to level the playing field for Native entrepreneurs passes US House, moving to Senate

Legislation meant to address entrepreneurship challenges specific to Native and tribal business owners advanced in the U.S. Congress this week, with a Kansas City lawmaker championing the effort to bring equity to an overlooked corner of the small business community. “In Indian Country, Native-owned businesses employ over 300,000 Americans and are vital drivers of our…

Troost entrepreneurs laying cornerstones of east side’s emerging restaurant row

Editor’s note: This story was originally published by Kansas City PBS/Flatland, a member of the KC 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. Chris Goode took a chance on his old neighborhood. He opened Ruby Jean’s Kitchen &…

NMotion invests $100K in AI storytelling startup’s next chapter; KC founder flexes momentum 

A $100,000 investment by a leading regional accelerator is expected to expand the capabilities and reach of a Kansas City AI storytelling startup — establishing Overland Park-based Storytailor as a well-known brand for children worldwide, founder JQ Sirls said.  The NMotion Accelerator on Wednesday announced six new companies selected for its cohort, which is powered…