entrepreneurship

Brian Roberts' Social House, newly opened in midtown, aims to serve nearby residents who want to hang out someplace comfortable. “I really want this to be a neighborhood spot, somewhere to go with no frills," Roberts said.

On top of organizing a Union Station marketplace that drew more than 120,000 visitors, City of Entrepreneurs’ Open Doors! program led to unexpected collaboration opportunities between cohort members.

The pandemic changed how many Americans think about work. Now, a new 30-year entrepreneurship study from the Kansas City-based Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation suggests those shifts may still be reshaping the economy.

What began as an unexpected opportunity from family in 2018 has grown into a team of roughly 30 employees. Mr D's Donut Shop now has plans to open new locations in Overland Park and Kansas City, Missouri.

Businesses and brand sponsors can apply now to take part in the activation, a short walk from where the FIFA Fan Festival is planned. “The marketplace will transform Union Station into a high-energy retail and cultural destination," organizers said.

After a high school teacher told Maci Shaw she would be the best entrepreneur, the 19-year-old listened. Now, she sells her thrifted finds on Depop, Poshmark, Instagram and at popup events around Kansas City.

Good Karma Coffee was designed to be a welcoming space centered on the community, not just another cafe, says owner Brian Roberts. The Tower East coffee and wine space celebrates one year in business in February.

Brodric Carson's catering company B-On-Meatz offers all the traditional foods: ribs, wings, brisket and greens. But the former comedian is also adding foods for people with other dietary needs, like salmon and vegan patties.

The Littlest Library, which opened on Independence Square last week, offers romance and fantasy genres and books in Spanish. It also features a hidden event space.

The Strips Chicken and Brewing location in Lenexa boasts a garden where the restaurant's founder grows heirloom tomatoes, lettuce, red onions, spinach, kale and more. He uses much of the produce in his menu.

The city will fund entrepreneurs, artists and leasing support for landlords who open pop-up shops in vacant buildings for the thousands of people who come to Kansas City for the World Cup next year. $10,000 grants will be available through the newly announced Open Doors! Program.

The KC Game Plan is designed specifically for business owners in such high-engagement industries as dining, lodging, retail and entertainment.