Latest Stories
Survey asks where sales tax funds should be invested next; EDCKC targets corridors for investment
A sales tax program meant to transform long-neglected corridors of Kansas City’s central city earned overwhelming voter support this summer, said Andrea Bough, noting renewed work to steward millions in public investment begins now — guided by the community most impacted.
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.
Techstars pushes KC startup to sharpen long-term vision as it strengthens AI, robotics focus
A Missouri-built startup’s road trip to Alabama is paying off as it evolves into a physical AI and robotics company focused on wastewater infrastructure, said co-founder Jacob Miller, touting the early, catalytic impact of a 10-week Techstars pre-accelerator on SiteScan.
KC grocery chain launches discount store as food prices rise, customers demand value
ChopMore! will offer quality meats, triple-inspected fresh produce, a variety of deli selections and hot foods, top-tier national brands, high-quality but value-based private labels, and bakery goods. “What we promise is — when you walk out the door you are going to save money,” said John Cosentino.
BioNexus KC celebrates ‘regional backbone’ connecting science, talent, tech and momentum
The scale of opportunities within Kansas City’s bio health industry would’ve been challenging to imagine even just five years ago, said Dennis Ridenour, touting a streak of groundbreakings, collaborations, game-changing announcements, and major investments — all rallying together the right people and institutions.
‘Right on plan’: Digital Health KC enters next growth phase, elevating Liz Shaffer to president
The first few years of Digital Health KC were about activating the ecosystem, said Liz Shaffer, noting the organization was propelled forward by its co-founder and longtime leader Dick Flanigan’s vision and strategy — pointedly growing the industry advocate to become a catalyst within the larger nexus of human and animal health.
Treating yourself: Sometimes a bedazzler offers the right dosage, says crafty side hustler
When women need help forming deep connections and honest conversations, Suzi Nelson said, it takes more than a simple prescription for sparkle — but it’s a start. “I trick people into talking about their feelings,” said Nelson, founder of Rxtra Co., a small business that hosts intimate bedazzling parties across Kansas City.
Neat goes national: KU business alum takes his sweat-hiding T-shirt to ‘Shark Tank’ Nov. 4
It’s a neat pitch: shirts for men who sweat and would rather not show it: the job interview, the first date, the big presentation. Patented technology is built into the fabric so professionals look composed when it counts, Jim Huffman said, describing the product he’s sharing with TV’s highest-profile investors.
Tire Pig inflates ZOHR founders’ mobile tire service concept with new AI engine, ‘effortless’ installation
Under the hood, ZOHR’s reboot as Tire Pig is using AI to make buying tires simple and intuitive, Komal Choong said. On the surface, the company is building a brand that’s fun, positive, and different from anything else in the aftermarket auto sector.
