Latest Stories
Good data can light the path: Kauffman celebrates impact of 30 years of entrepreneur research
Necessity is driving a burst of entrepreneurial activity — especially among immigrant, Latino and Black communities, according to new data released this week by the Kauffman Foundation, reflecting mixed news for the state of American entrepreneurship as the influential Kansas City nonprofit celebrated 30 years of research.
Made in KC owners selected for Junior Achievement hall of fame alongside trio of business leaders
“These outstanding leaders have not only shaped our region through their work, but they’re also setting a powerful example for the next generation,” said Megan Sturges. “Their stories show the thousands of students we serve each year what’s possible, inspiring them to chase their passions and become the positive change they envision for their communities.”
NXTUS launches alumni collective to keep founders connected to resources after programs end
The journey doesn’t end with an end-of-cohort pitch showcase, NXTUS leaders said this week, debuting a new network for alumni of its portfolio of Wichita-based entrepreneur growth programs.
Leaked discount codes cost online sellers millions; KC startup sweeps their profits back
Kansas City startup Veeper built its business around discounts, explained co-founder Jordan Williams; now, it’s helping ecommerce brands stop such deals — and fraud often linked to influencer marketing — from eating into profits.
No height limit for entrepreneurship: Kansas nonprofit boosts children’s business literacy
“We look at every child as a leader right now,” said Leah Ellis, founder of The Society of Child Entrepreneurs, “and ask them what they want to see happening in their community today, rather than kicking the can down the road until they’re older or taller.”
This 45-year-old Missouri brand became an unexpected TikTok star (and earned its team $1M in bonuses)
Social media turned a Smithville, Missouri-based, family-owned business into an overnight sensation; now the tight-knit team behind the viral odor eliminator is trying to preserve the scent of success.
Visitors will never guess what KC has in store for World Cup: Inside Open Doors! new shops
Bubble and slime play. Vegan Mexican cuisine. A jazz listening room. The variety and depth of Kansas City’s wide-ranging small business community will pop when visitors near and far arrive for the FIFA World Cup, said Nia Webster, calling out a compelling list of entrepreneurs selected for the city’s Open Doors! program.
Get in the game: World Cup match lights opportunity (but only if a risk-taker is willing to strike)
“FIFA isn’t thinking about Kansas City’s legacy. That’s up to us,” said Rich Chungong, a serial tech founder and cryptocurrency enthusiast who turned his attention to community organizing around the World Cup once it became clear leaders needed to step up.
Closing time: KC nixes 23-hour drinking plan for World Cup; select bars, restaurants can stay open until 5 am
“The ordinance expands opportunity for our businesses while ensuring the police department, first responders, and the City have the tools to keep residents and visitors safe,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said.
Missouri’s long-sought angel investor tax credit heads to governor’s desk after years of startup advocacy
“When one side has an angel credit and the other does not, it creates imbalance,” said Greg Kratofil. “This helps founders focus less on which side of State Line Road their office is on and more on building their business.”
