Editor’s note: The following is the third in a series of stories about Kansas City fashion companies putting their own creative spin on the often-utilitarian face mask. As demand for face masks surged this spring, a massive and sustained influx... Read more
Donnelly College in KCK partners with EPA to support student research, job training
Recognized as the most ethnically diverse college in the Midwest, Donnelly College is continuing to serve its primarily first-generation and minority students through a partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, Lisa Stoothoff said. “... Read more
‘Cabin fever is real’: No Vacancy books a hometown escape to your own personal hotel
In contrast to its neon name, No Vacancy offers plenty of room for staycationing Kansas Citians at its newly-opened Crossroads hotel — a cozy getaway for pandemic-grounded guests looking to recharge without the risk of travel, said Spencer Sight... Read more
Redivus Health earns ticket to Germany-based accelerator thanks to seeds planted by Plug and Play
Plug and Play promised regional connectivity when the international network of accelerators announced plans for a Topeka-based program, and it’s already paying off for one Kansas City-grown startup — before the Kansas accelerator even laun... Read more
Doctor-turned-marketer aims to help healthtech founders communicate the science behind their startups
Great founders and scientists aren’t always great marketers and vice versa, Dr. Meghan Burns said, detailing the COVID-era launch of her latest startup and its potential to help healthtech companies navigate a critical time for messaging and awa... Read more
Rightfully Sewn acquisition stitches new path toward re-establishing KC as garment capital, Lapka says
Rightfully Sewn’s acquisition by a 109-year-old nonprofit with national reach means more contracts, more employees and more impact for the mission-focused fashion company, said Jennifer Lapka. “No shakeups, no drama. The brand, programs, and tea... Read more
Overland Park startup partners with Cosentino’s for time-saving automation in KC grocery stores
As a way to compete and thrive against major retailers like Walmart and Safeway, independent grocers are turning toward software that automates manual tasks — resulting in reduced errors and increased efficiency, John Epperson said. Such softwar... Read more
Vine Online artist preview: A look inside Vine Street Studio’s first-ever virtual art show
Kay Hansley is a doula, seamstress, art teacher, dietary manager and artist. She pulls inspiration from all aspects of her life, she said, and isn’t scared to take risks. “We should never feel afraid to express ourselves and let people see the r... Read more
Guadalupe Centers gala, ofrenda pass from physical to virtual world; pandemic could reshape cultural traditions
It’s not a normal year, Alyx Bartrom said, acknowledging the obvious and embracing opportunities to innovate a more-than-30-year-old community tradition. “You have to either adapt or you get left behind,” Bartrom, director of fund develop... Read more
From finding SARS in sewers to brewing better beer, InnovaPrep scales tech from KC cleanroom
As COVID-19 began to spread, InnovaPrep could almost immediately see the reason why — and it’s a realization that has gained the startup some serious traction, explained David Alburty. “All the puzzle pieces fit neatly in place for us. Th... Read more