Latest News


SaRA Health is Empowering Patients and Transforming Physical Therapy 

Digital health startup SaRA Health was born out of a simple yet profound idea – improving patient experiences in physical therapy.   The company’s co-founder and CEO Steven Coen, who himself [...]

This KC Startup is on a Journey to Support individuals on the Autism Spectrum

Kansas City, Missouri-based startup Routine Success was conceived in 2016, with a focus on helping neurodiverse children thrive in both home and school environments. The idea was simple but powerful: [...]

Digital Sandbox KC Welcomes 5 Innovative Startups into Its Ecosystem

Digital Sandbox KC has announced the acceptance of five new startups joining its program that will each receive up to $20,000 in project funding. These companies have demonstrated exceptional potential [...]

This Kansas City Startup is Guiding Personal Growth using AI

In today's fast-paced world, where time is of the essence and information overload is a constant struggle, finding a way to distill valuable insights and growth strategies from lengthy content [...]

This KC startup is improving the college admissions process for high school students

Kansas City startup VU Scholarships is on a mission to change the way high school students enter and progress through the college enrollment pipeline. The company’s platform matches high school [...]

4 Newest Digital Sandbox KC Companies Primed to Develop Kansas City’s Next Innovations 

In line with Digital Sandbox KC’s broader commitment to help accelerate innovations, we are proud to announce the four new companies joining our program that will receive up to $20,000 [...]

Digital Sandbox KC Releases New Impact Report Detailing How Companies Leveraged Early-Stage Funding for Growth

Digital Sandbox KC has released its 2023 Impact Report, which tells the story of how up to $20,000 in project-funding for each of its 180 Kansas City innovations has yielded economic [...]

How KC Startup Mpruv Sports Wants to Make Golf, Other Sports More Accessible

Kansas City entrepreneur Mark Lukenbill shares how he leveraged Kansas City’s entrepreneurial resources to launch his startup Mpruv Sports, a sports lesson booking application and social networking platform.   Mark [...]

Unwitting Entrepreneur Leverages Comeback KC Ventures to Help More People with Obesity

Courtney Younglove unknowingly had an idea for a tech business but didn’t have the tech know-how. See how UMCK Tech Venture programs like Comeback KC Ventures, UMKC SBDC and Digital Sandbox KC helped her move her idea forward.

4 KC-Area Startups Receive Digital Sandbox KC $20K in Project Funding

Meet the latest startups to receive up to $20,000 each in project funding from Digital Sandbox KC for its first-quarter application cycle for 2023. These four Sandbox companies represent digital solutions around help for supply chain issues, sports education, people with disabilities and mental health.

Comeback KC Celebration Story

The UMKC Technology Venture Studio and KC Digital Drive teams celebrated last month Comeback KC Ventures, a program that supported innovations that aim to solve pandemic-related issues, built in just 18 months.

5 Amazing COVID-19 Innovations Created in the Kansas City Area

Through the Comeback KC Ventures program, Whiteboard2Boardroom has focused many of its efforts on supporting the acceleration of COVID-related technologies. Here are 5 Kansas City researchers and physicians working to solve the pandemic’s most pressing and complex problems.

Comeback KC Ventures Announces 2 University Technologies to Receive Support for Developing COVID-19 Innovations

Two UMKC research teams have received proof-of-concept funding support through Comeback KC Ventures, which will allow them take the next step toward bringing their innovations from the university lab to market to solve problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Next 5 KC-area startups receive Digital Sandbox KC early-stage project funding and support to fuel innovations

Digital Sandbox KC completed its fourth-quarter 2022 application cycle, adding six new companies to its roster.

How an Entrepreneur Roundtable Can Add Resilience to Your Startup

Technology Venture Studio’s entrepreneurial roundtables are a place where like-minded founders come together to share lessons learned, strategize toward better outcomes and grow from one another’s successes—and learn from one another’s mistakes.

GEWKC 2022 Sessions Built to Help Tech Founders, Aspiring Innovative Entrepreneurs

Explore the Global Entrepreneurship Week – Kansas City sessions built for tech startup founders and innovative entrepreneurs.

Tech Entrepreneurs: MTC Is Accepting Applications for Its IDEA Funds Programs

Explore the opportunities for tech entrepreneurs and innovative founders through the Missouri Technology Corporation’s IDEA Fund.

How Digital Sandbox KC and Comeback KC Ventures Are Helping Bring Innovation to Vaccines

Thanks to mentorship and funding, Kansas City startup VaccineAssist can continue to innovate.

Digital Sandbox KC Fuels 6 More KC-area startups with support and early-stage project funding to build innovations

Digital Sandbox KC completed its third-quarter 2022 application cycle, adding six new companies to its roster.

9 Chances to Turn Up the Heat on Your Innovation or Startup

Check out these 9 opportunities in Kansas City to help you fine tune your business model, test your idea, perfect your pitch to investors, seek your first startup investment or pursue follow-on funding.

Prepare for Liftoff, Early-Stage Startups: LaunchKC’s $50K Grants Competition Is Back!

Launch KC returns to Kansas City after a four-year break to again fund early-stage tech startups.

Meet the 26 Innovations Part of Comeback KC Ventures

While COVID-19 took a tremendous toll on our community, it also unleashed a wave of creativity and energy as local innovators developed technologies, startups and new business lines in response […]

Meet the Newest KC Startups in the Sandbox

Digital Sandbox KC completed its second-quarter 2022 application cycle, adding five new companies to its roster.

The Impact of Digital Sandbox KC for Regional Innovation

Innovation is most vulnerable at the stage between research and revenue. And that’s precisely where Digital Sandbox KC comes in. The 2022 Impact Report tells the story of how project-funding for Kansas City innovations has yielded economic impact for KC founders and for our region.

Have a Tech Startup but Can’t Code? These Product-Development Events Can Help

Check out these two product development opportunities for non-technical founders from the Technology Venture Studio.

Announcing Digital Sandbox KC’s 2022 Summer in the Sand Program

Founders who want to learn how to pitch to Digital Sandbox KC for early-project funding, scope out the capital landscape in Kansas City and understand product development can register for […]

Welcome the Newest 9 Comeback KC Ventures Fellows

Meet the newest Comeback KC Ventures Fellows who have received support.

5 Digital Sandbox KC Newcomers are Poised to Shake Up Kansas City’s Startup Ecosystem

Digital Sandbox KC completed its first-quarter 2022 application cycle, adding five new companies to its roster.

How Your Innovative Business Can Apply for the World’s Largest Fund of Grant Money, SBIR and STTR

Learn how your cutting-edge business or innovative startup can apply for SBIR and STTR grants.

MTC Awards Two MOBEC Grants to Fuel KC Innovation

MTC has awarded more than $1 million in grant funding to support startups and entrepreneurship via its MOBEC program. Digital Sandbox KC and LaunchKC are among the seven statewide awardees, which will use the grants to advance technology, innovation and jobs in Missouri.

Rally, Rally! Sandbox Startups Among Those Pitching for $25K in Startup Competition

Ten Kansas City startups, eight of which are Technology Venture Studio and Digital Sandbox KC alums, will compete for $25,000 in funding at Husch Blackwell’s Get Started Omaha.

Inno Madness Brings Healthy Dose of Competition to KC’s Startup Scene

Round 1 of KC Inno’s first Inno Madness, bracket-style competition kicked off this month with thirty-two Kansas City startups. Meet the contenders and cast your votes today!

3 Actionable Steps to Support KC’s Black Women in Tech

Six Black women tech founders — who run businesses focused on everything from telehealth to digital clothing measurements — shared practical insights on how KC can bolster its tech industry through better engagement and promotion of Black women.

Tech Startups: Your Guide to Find Funding and Resources in Kansas City

Could 2022 be the year you get your tech startup idea off the ground? Classes and funding opportunities from the Technology Venture Studio and our partners will provide you with […]

Kansas City Entrepreneurs: Here’s Your Chance to Bring Creative Startup Ideas to Life

KC Digital Drive will host a virtual workshop on Thursday, Jan. 27, aimed at advancing promising start-up business ideas that surfaced over the past year. Register today!

6 KANSAS CITY TECH STARTUPS RECEIVE DIGITAL SANDBOX KC EARLY-PROJECT FUNDING FOR Q4 2021

Six new companies join the Sandbox!

6 EARLY-STAGE COMPANIES ADDED TO DIGITAL SANDBOX KC PROJECT-FUNDING ROSTER

Six new companies join Digital Sandbox KC’s portfolio.

Sandbox Company RFP360 Exits to Oregon-based RFPIO

Oregon-based RFPIO recently announced the purchase of Sandbox company RFP360. The two companies will join and continue developing solutions that serve the entire RFP lifecycle.

Sandbox Companies by Funding Quarter

Get to know the KC-area startups that have received project funding in the last year.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC ADDS 6 EARLY-STAGE COMPANIES TO ITS PROJECT-FUNDING ROSTER

Digital Sandbox KC adds six new companies to its portfolio.

Summer in the Sand Returns With Four Power-Packed Sessions

Summer in the Sand is back! Register today to hear and learn from Kansas City’s best and brightest.

Meet 14 Digital Sandbox KC Alums That Broke the $1MM Mark

Reaching the coveted million-dollar milestone is not impossible, however, and a number of Kansas City startups have demonstrated what happens when compelling ideas meet a critical market need.

KC Startup Builds Water Management Solution with Global Impact

NEER – named aptly as the word for “water” in multiple Indian languages – uses machine learning to analyze a city’s water infrastructure and identify leaks, predict failures and help officials prioritize maintenance of their drinking water, sewer and stormwater systems.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC’S LATEST ROUND OF FUNDING GOES TO BLACK WOMEN-LED COMPANIES

Digital Sandbox KC adds two new Black women-led companies to its portfolio.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC CONTINUES TO PROVIDE CRITICAL EARLY-STAGE FUNDING TO LATEST 3 COMPANIES

Digital Sandbox KC added three new companies to its portfolio.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC WELCOMES 4 NEW STARTUPS, PROVIDING CRITICAL EARLY-STAGE FUNDING

Digital Sandbox KC added four new companies to its portfolio.

Popularity of the Whiteboard2Boardroom Webinar Series Continues

Two more exciting innovations were shared during this month’s technology webinar. Learn more and explore how you can become a part of their development.

New Teleheath Therapy Provides Positive Social Opportunities for Individuals with Autism

A new group telehealth therapy developed by the University of Missouri and the Thompson Center for Autism has seen early success in their first round of sessions.

Opportunities to Engage with New Tech Innovations

Whiteboard2Boardroom is looking for people interested in engaging with the exciting innovative technologies developing across the region. Stay up-to-date with new technologies and see how your skills can help fledgling innovations succeed.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC CONTINUES TO PROVIDE VITAL EARLY-STAGE FUNDING TO LATEST 4 COMPANIES

Digital Sandbox KC added four new companies to its portfolio.

FOUR COMPANIES SELECTED, INCLUDING FIRST OVERLAND PARK COMPANY

Digital Sandbox KC added four new companies, one in partnership with the City of Overland Park, Kansas.

THREE COMPANIES SELECTED, OVERLAND PARK JOINS DIGITAL SANDBOX KC FUNDING PARTNERSHIP

Overland Park joins the Digital Sandbox KC funding partnership, opening up opportunity for early-stage companies based in Overland Park.

Jill Meyer Tapped for New Position to Lead UMKC Innovation Center Tech Initiatives

As KC’s tech sector grows, Jill Meyer is set to take the lead for programs like Digital Sandbox KC and KCInvestED

Digital Sandbox selects four companies in Kansas City and Olathe

Three companies are the newest Digital Sandbox KC selections.

Whiteboard2Boardroom Company Recognized by University of Missouri Chancellor

iSocial was one of several startups honored by University of Missouri Chancellor Alexander Cartwright at a luncheon Oct. 11 in Columbia. Bob Etzel was recognized for his role in helping commercialize the iSocial classroom program developed by Dr. Janine Stichter of MU’s Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders.

Funding for Early-Stage Companies in KC: Top 5 Takeaways from the Sandbox Investor Event

We spent the final day of Summer in the Sand at the Sprint Accelerator with some of the key players and connectors in early-stage funding in the Kansas City region. Here are the top five nuggets of knowledge that we learned about investors and startup funding in KC:

Sandbox Funding for Two St. Joseph Startups

“Our partnership with Digital Sandbox KC has given us an opportunity to capture the full range of innovative concepts being developed in the St. Joseph area,” said Ronan Molloy, president of Innovation Stockyard.

Four New Startups Join the Sandbox

From a virtual learning platform for kids on the autism spectrum to a St. Joe-based startup making unique cocktail bitters, the startups in the Sandbox are a great example of the diversity and creativity of this region’s entrepreneurs. Meet the four new companies to join the Sandbox.

KC Startup Investors On Tap for Summer in the Sand

We know that the more connected early-stage entrepreneurs are to each other and to the startup resources the more likely they are to succeed. This is especially true when you’re ready to raise capital for your startup. Meet the panel of funders on tap for the Summer in the Sand event on September 19 at the Sprint Accelerator.

How the Sandbox Helped this Entrepreneur Expand to New Markets

Entrepreneur and veteran Aaron Brennan watched business after business incorporate technology into their processes. Still, there was one industry that he didn’t see making the move. Trash.

Four New Startups Join the Sandbox

From helping students prepare for college to analyzing voting records to predict legislative outcomes, the startups in the Sandbox are a great example of the diversity and creativity of this region’s entrepreneurs. Meet the four new companies to join the Sandbox.

Renewed Support for Digital Sandbox KC

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and Missouri Technology Corporation renewed their support of Digital Sandbox KC, awarding the successful proof-of-concept program a combined $950,000 grant.

6 Reasons Why You Should Attend Summer in the Sand

We get it—it’s hard to take time away from work. Your busy hustling, often running a side-hustle in addition to a full-time job. But sometimes you have to break away from work in order to get to work and sharpen your skills. Summer in the Sand offers four (free!) events tailored to the needs of early-stage companies in Kansas City.

Kansas City Startup PerfectCube Solves Problems from the Inside Out

As PerfectCube developed into more of a startup than just a side project, co-founders Mark Calhoun and Jim Starcev did what any good Kansas City tech startup should do—they brought their idea to Digital Sandbox KC.

Digital Sandbox KC Funded 100 Startups (When the Goal Was Just 10)

It’s been five years since we launched our “startup” —Digital Sandbox KC. We had the unique challenge of funding 10 early-stage companies that could use our project development funding to significantly move their idea forward. Instead of just 10, we found 100 . . . and we’re still growing.

Four New Startups Added to the Sandbox

Digital Sandbox KC added four new companies, two in partnership with the Ennovation Center in Independence, Missouri, and two out of the Innovation Stockyard in St. Joseph, Missouri.

TradeLanes winner of the World Agri-Tech Pitch Day and The Radicle Challenge

Ag-tech start-up TradeLanes has been announced as the winner of the World Agri-Tech 2018 Pitch Day, which this year partnered with acceleration fund Radicle Growth to create The Radicle Challenge, an unprecedented $250,000 investment opportunity for the winner.

Acre Designs prefab option for homes ravaged by California fires

Prefab offers a chance to have a state-of-the-art home, like those from Acre Designs, a start-up in Mountain View, Calif., offering a net-zero-energy home “so you practically never have to use a heating system or a cooling system.”

DivvyHQ founders named finalists for prestigious EY Award

DivvyHQ co-founders Brody Dorland and Brock Stechman have been named finalists for the Entrepreneur of the Year 2017 Award in the Central Midwest.

Mobility Designed raises nearly $900K from iiM, local investors

The seed round for Kansas City-based Mobility Designed is approaching seven figures following the support of a local investment firm. Overland Park-based Innovation in Motion (iiM) recently joined the medical device startup’s round, which is approaching $900,000 and comprised mostly of individual investors.

Sandbox Funding for Two St. Joseph Startups

The Innovation Stockyard announced two St. Joseph new companies to recieve funding through the recent partnership with Digital Sandbox KC. “In less, than a year, we’ve found three high-growth St. Joseph businesses to support and we know there are many more to come,” said Ronan Molloy, president of the Innovation Stockyard.

Digital Sandbox KC Top 5 FAQs

Digital Sandbox KC has worked with more than 500 entrepreneurs and supported 96 proof-of-concept projects. If you’re thinking if bringing your innovative tech idea to the Sandbox (and you should!) here are the top five things Kansas City entrepreneurs ask when applying for a project support and that you should know about the Sandbox:

Whiteboard2Boardroom Featured at Smart Metro Summit

Whiteboard2Boardroom took center stage at the Smart Metro Summit, hosted by KC Digital Drive. The Feb. 16 event was held at Plexpod Westport Commons.

Helping Children with Autism is “Routine Success” in Kansas City

Two Whiteboard2Boardroom companies are collaborating to develop a product that helps young people with ADHC and high-functioning autism. Nascent Stage Development now owns the rights to develop Routine Success, a smartphone-based app developed by Kansas City businessman Matt Gunter.

MU online curriculum helps children with autism develop better social skills

One in 68 children in the United States has some form of autism spectrum disorder, which impairs a child’s ability to communicate and interact. Because of the social challenges these children face, many efforts are being made to find new ways to help children with autism grow their social skills. iSocial, a classroom curriculum designed by University of Missouri researchers to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) cultivate better social skills, has been licensed by Nascent Stage Development LLC to develop the program into an expansive, online virtual world. Nascent will contract with other online educational companies to make the lessons available to millions of families and educators globally.

Digital Sandbox KC Companies to Watch in 2018

Digital Sandbox KC is where ideas take shape. For many startups, innovators and disruptors, it is the starting point in the Kansas City region, providing that critical step and just-in-time funding that turns viable ideas into scalable innovations.

Digital Sandbox KC Companies Continue to Scale as Program Expands

Digital Sandbox KC is where ideas take shape. For many startups, innovators and disrupters, it is the starting point in the Kansas City region, providing that critical step and just-in-time funding that turns viable ideas into scalable innovations.

The Sandbox is Collaborating Across Kansas City

Digital Sandbox KC is teaming up with cities across the metro to expand into new areas and markets. Through partnerships with the cities of Olathe, Independence and St. Joseph, the Sandbox program offers project funding and coworking space for entrepreneurs in those cities. Here are a few of the companies who have found their start in the Sandbox program in their city:

Three New Companies Join the Sandbox

Digital Sandbox KC wrapped up 2017 with three new companies selected for Sandbox project funding, each revolutionizing industries with innovative technologies.

Digital Sandbox, Innovation Stockyard offer funding, support for St. Joseph entrepreneurs

Digital Sandbox KC and the Innovation Stockyard are looking for early-stage entrepreneurs in St. Joseph who need a little help launching their products and services. Applications are open now for the next round of Digital Sandbox’s St. Joseph program. It’s designed for companies with the potential to achieve big growth quickly.

Another Round of Funding for St. Joseph Startups

After a successful first round of project reviews, Digital Sandbox KC is accepting applications from entrepreneurs in the St. Joseph area with scalable business concepts that can grow quickly and create a high volume of jobs.

Whiteboard2Boardroom efforts result in 129 jobs, 35 new startups

Whiteboard2Boardroom has facilitated 35 new startups since its inception, and the companies it works with have created 129 new jobs and raised $26.2 million in follow-on funding.

Two New Companies Added to the Sandbox

Thanks to the partnership between Digital Sandbox KC and the City of Independence and the Independence Economic Development Council, Drones4Hire and Hidden Abilities are the two new companies to receiving funding.

St. Joseph Company joins the Sandbox

Digital Sandbox KC continues to expand its network – this time by partnering with a St. Joseph-based startup Toss It Curbside. With Toss It Curbside, customers can leave unwanted objects on the curb, and the startup will find a way to get those things to a charity or a recycler.

Sandbox Makes the Techweek KC 100 List

Techweek announced the 2017 Kansas City Techweek 100, including nine Digital Sandbox KC companies in the “Rising Startup” category and Director Jeff Shackelford as an “Innovative Investor.”

HomeGrown & Happy Provides an Innovative Way to Experience New Flavors

The first company to receive funding from the Independence program, HomeGrown & Happy is working with the Independence iNtech Growth Program to launch this innovative platform to help food enthusiasts bring the flavors of grandma’s cooking and home-canning to everyone’s doorstep.

Five New Companies Join the Sandbox

From booking travel to monitoring cattle, the newest Digital Sandbox KC companies represent a diverse range of startups in the region.

“We continue to be amazed by the quality and creativity of Kansas City companies,” said Jeff Shackelford, director of Digital Sandbox KC. “Now, through our partnerships with Olathe, Independence, St. Joseph and Great Plains Energy, we have the opportunity to help even more early-stage entrepreneurs.”

Funding and Coworking Space for Northwest Missouri Startups

St. Joseph gained national recognition in 2016 for being a top metro for startup growth. Now, thanks to a partnership between Digital Sandbox KC, Innovation Stockyard and other St. Joseph partners, entrepreneurs in northwest Missouri will have a shared work space and funding to pursue their startup business plans.

Why would KC want to build the next Silicon Valley?

Jeff weighs in on Sarah McBride’s Bloomberg article “Why It’s So Hard to Build the Next Silicon Valley” and subtitled “Google brought its high-speed internet to Kansas City, but it didn’t turn the city into a tech paradise.”

Latest Survey Numbers for the Sandbox Companies

When we launched the Sandbox, our stated goal was to improve the quantity and quality of early-stage startups in Kansas City to drive new business starts and create new jobs. Our latest impact study shows we’re continuing to fulfill that mission. We couldn’t be prouder.

Mobility Designed Secures Investment from iiM

Overland Park, Kansas-based investor group Innovation in Motion (iiM) announced backing for Kansas City startup (and Sandbox company) Mobility Designed.
Since Digital Sandbox KC funding in 2015, Mobility Designed has secured more than $800,000 in follow-on funding.

Olathe Ups the Ante for Startups

Digital Sandbox KC and the City of Olathe are continuing their efforts to drive entrepreneurship and new business starts in Olathe with proof-of-concept funding and new co-working space at the Kansas State University Olathe Campus.

Save the Dates: Summer in the Sand

Our Summer in the Sand series is turning five and we’ve got BIG plans! Learn from the experts about the hottest topics in the Kansas City entrepreneurship scene. Make valuable connections and collaborate with startups from across the region.

Learning to Fire it Up Without Burning Out

Catch up with FireBoard co-founder Ted Conrad. Ted and his team are busy hustlin’ – launching, promoting and selling their product – but making time to unplug and unwind.

How to Pitch to the Sandbox

Miss the ‘How to Pitch to the Sandbox’ session? We’ve got you covered. Where to Start? The first step to landing Digital Sandbox KC funding is to apply! Applications are […]

Digital Sandbox KC Selects Six New Companies

Six new companies joined the Sandbox cohort, including the first startups to receive funding through the new Energy Sandbox and as part of the Sandbox’s partnership with the City of Independence, Missouri.

Welcome to The Sandbox!

With continued support through partnerships, like Independence, Olathe and Great Plains Energy for the Energy Sandbox, Digital Sandbox KC is increasing the quantity and quality of early-stage entrepreneurs across the […]

BossDNA Taps Resource Network

BossDNA taps into local resources to move their innovative product along the development path.

Tech Snapshots Showcases Regional Innovations

Whiteboard2Boardroom hosted its first Technology Snapshots event featuring 12 homegrown innovations from eight universities, hospitals and corporations. The event was held Jan. 11 at the Kauffman Foundation for a select, […]

Digital Sandbox KC Selects Two New Companies

Digital Sandbox KC wrapped up 2016 with two new companies for the Sandbox.  Both startups are using innovative technology to get people “moving,” addressing the onerous task of hiring a moving company and using hip hop to encourage physical activity.

Digital Sandbox KC Companies Selects Four New Companies

While the echoes of Kansas City TechWeek are still fresh,  Digital Sandbox KC proudly announces four new innovative companies for the Sandbox. These latest recipients of proof-of-concept support are working on challenges in trucking, nursing retention, identity verification and no-shows.

339 Jobs and 34 New Companies Created By Digital Sandbox KC Participants

The 65 proof-of-concept projects funded by Digital Sandbox KC in the past three years have created a total of 339 jobs with a payroll of $9 million; 34 new KC-based companies; and 55 new products.

Proof-of-Concept Funding and Space for Independence Startups

Digital Sandbox KC, a highly successful proof-of-concept program, the City of Independence and the Independence Economic Development Council are teaming up to help early-stage entrepreneurs in Independence.

GXP Investments to Team with Digital Sandbox KC to Launch Energy Sandbox

Digital Sandbox KC and GXP Investments are teaming up to launch a Kansas City-based Energy Sandbox, a new proof-of-concept program targeting early-stage entrepreneurs focused on the energy sector.

Diverse Innovations Mark Three New Digital Sandbox KC Companies

From autism routines to social events to customer surveys, the newest Digital Sandbox KC companies represent a diverse range of startup companies. These new companies are just the latest examples of innovations in Kansas City that have been selected for proof-of-concept funding support.

Digital Sandbox KC: Summer in the Sand Returns for Fourth Year

For some, summer means oceans and palm trees. For Kansas City area startups, Summer in the Sand means a chance to learn from the experts about the hottest topics in […]

Digital Sandbox KC Picks Five More Companies for Early-Stage Support

KANSAS CITY, MO. (APRIL 14, 2016) — Five additional companies have joined Digital Sandbox KC, bringing the number of proof-of-concept projects funded to 69. The five new startups range from […]

UMKC E-SCHOLARS AND DIGITAL SANDBOX KC PARTNER TO HELP THREE STARTUP COMPANIES

Three student-led companies have been selected for proof-of-concept funding support through a partnership involving Digital Sandbox KC and UMKC’s E-Scholars program.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC SELECTS SIX MORE COMPANY FOR EARLY-STAGE SUPPORT

Six additional companies joined Digital Sandbox KC in December, bringing the number of proof-of-concept projects funded to 20 for 2015. The newest recruits are Training for REAL, Miles, UpDown NightLife, PlanITimpact, Edcoda and League Ally.

TWO MORE COMPANIES PLAY IN THE SANDBOX AND SCORE ON THE FIELD

Football season is here and two KC companies who are helping improve the fan and player experiences are now playing in the Sandbox.

Gov Nixon announces $500k grant for Digital Sandbox KC

September 17, 2015 Speaking to hundreds of startup companies, industry leaders, and investors at Kansas City’s first ever Techweek, Gov. Jay Nixon today announced $1.19 million in grants for three […]

Kansas City Inventor Seeks To Replace Ubiquitous Football Equipment With Laser Technology

Read how the inventor of Laszer Down, a Whiteboard2Boardroom success story, developed his idea into a ​commercialized technology and how he plans to market it to the NFL.   Read […]

PRESENTING TO THE SANDBOX – SEPT 22 EVENT

If you are considering taking your idea to the Digital Sandbox KC then you’ll want to be sure to attend this session.   Jeff Shackelford, executive director, Digital Sandbox KC, […]

SHACKELFORD INTERVIEW ABOUT SANDBOX WITH WHAT’S UP KC

Jeff Shackelford talks with What’s Up Kansas City about how the Digital Sandbox is helping technology startups in Kansas City get proof-of-concept funding, mentoring and support in order to launch […]

DIGITAL SANDBOX EVENT SEEKS TO ENGAGE ENTREPRENEURS FROM OLATHE

September 1, 2015 KANSAS CITY, MO — Many cities are trying to attract startups. Now, with a unique partnership between the City of Olathe and the Digital Sandbox KC, residents […]

SANDBOX OFFERS 15% DISCOUNT TO TECH WEEK KC

Digital Sandbox KC is a City Partner for Tech Week KC, Sept 14-20, 2015.   Sandbox companies and partners can use a special discount code to receive 15% off the registration fee. The Sandbox […]

LEARN HOW TO PLAY IN THE SANDBOX

Learn how to play in the Sandbox – September 17, 2015 // 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. Join us during Tech Week for an overview of the Digital Sandbox grant program. […]

The Inventor’s Path: Taking Lazser Down from Idea to Product

Lazser Down, a Whiteboard2Boardroom ​success story, discusses the challenges of converting great ideas into great businesses. ​ Read the full story

2015 Techweek 100 – Kansas City

Whiteboard2Boardroom is being recognized in Techweek’s listing of the top 100 most distinguished organizations in Kansas City. The leading organizations were selected by the Techweek community, Techweek Advisory Boards, and […]

UMKC E-SCHOLARS AND DIGITAL SANDBOX FUND THREE STARTUPS

Three promising entrepreneurs from UMKC’s E-Scholars program have secured funding support through a partnership between the program and the Digital Sandbox KC.  The partnership gives E-Scholars participants a direct route […]

CITY OF OLATHE TEAMS WITH DIGITAL SANDBOX KC

Digital Sandbox KC, a highly successful proof-of-concept program, and the City of Olathe are teaming up to help early-stage entrepreneurs in Olathe.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC SELECTS SIX MORE AREA STARTUP COMPANIES

Six more Kansas City area early-stage companies have jumped into the Sandbox and are receiving support to help them move toward commercialization.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC ANNOUNCES THIRD SUMMER IN THE SAND SERIES

With the official start of summer just days away, thoughts are turned to baseball, vacations, swimming pools and beaches.  For some, this means sand between their toes but for area […]

UMKC E-SCHOLARS AND DIGITAL SANDBOX KC FORM PARTNERSHIP

Two programs whose purpose is to help create more successful entrepreneurs in Kansas City have formed a unique partnership: Digital Sandbox KC and UMKC’s E-Scholars program

Whiteboard2Boardroom Overview Video

Kansas City Area Life Science Institute, a W2B company

Kansas City Area Life Science Institute discusses how the Whiteboard2Boardroom program facilitates the transfer of technology. Read the full story

RFP365 LANDS KCMO AS CLIENT

Today, Mayor Sly James gave his infamous State of the City Address, commemorating the strides Kansas City has made in: efficiency, employment, education, and enforcement.  He emphasized the importance of our […]

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC WINS SECOND I6 CHALLENGE GRANT

Digital Sandbox KC was awarded an unprecedented second i6 Challenge Grant from the Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration.

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC CONTINUES FUNDING WITH FOUR NEW COMPANIES

Four more Kansas City-based early-stage companies have jumped into the Sandbox and are receiving funding support to help them move towards commercialization.

Digital Sandbox KC Kicks Off 2015 with 5 New Companies-

Five new companies have jumped into the Sandbox for 2015 and are receiving support for early-stage commercialization.

Find Your Idea with the Tech Transfer Process – VeteranOnTheMove.org Podcast

Jim Baxendale of Whiteboard2Boardroom recently sat down with VeteranOnTheMove.org to discuss the technology transfer process. Listen to the podcast here.

Supporting Innovation Initiatives at Rockhurst University

Whiteboard2Boardroom lends a helping hand at an innovation and entrepreneurship workshop, hosted by Rockhurst University. Read the full story.

Digital Sandbox KC Announces Round 2 of Funding

Digital Sandbox KC will once again offer proof-of-concept support to entrepreneurs, thanks to assistance from the Missouri Technology Corp., the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the Henry W. Bloch School of Business at University of Missouri – Kansas City and other local corporations.

Mi Zócalo Mobile App Launches

To celebrate its 33rd Anniversary, Dos Mundos has joined forces with BlueJacket Technology to launch the first mobile app for Latino culture in Kansas City,

Digital Sandbox KC Relaunch presented by UMB

UMB presents the Digital Sandbox KC Relaunch celebration. After officially launching two years ago, it’s time to celebrate successes and share news.  – – – – – – – – […]

Digital Sandbox KC and Hallmark present Summer in the Sand

Digital Sandbox KC and Hallmark present a series of fun and educational sessions this summer. See you in the sand.

LightBridge Selected As Member of Prestigious Dell Founders Club 50

LightBridge, Inc. announced today it has been named to the Dell Founders Club 50, an exclusive list of companies that Dell has identified as high growth start-ups poised to become major disruptors […]

Knoda Secures Investment from University of Missouri Students

Allen Angel Capital Education Program Invests $50,000 in Prediction-Tracking Startup Knoda (NODE-uh) announced Wednesday that the startup has secured $50,000 in funding from the University of Missouri Trulaske College of […]

Knoda Makes Predicting Social with New Groups Feature

Knoda announced Tuesday the release of a new Groups feature to allow users to make predictions privately within their social circles. The feature is immediately available throughKnoda.com and Knoda’s iPhone and Android mobile applications

Digital Sandbox KC By The Numbers: Progress Report

Digital Sandbox KC provides proof-of-concept resources to companies in the Kansas City region.  Funded by a $1 million federal i6 Challenge Grant with an additional $500,000 from MTC and $600,000 […]

DIGITAL SANDBOX KC COMPANIES RAISE $7 MILLION IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR

New model serves early-stage businesses by providing key resources, funding specific projects KANSAS CITY, Mo. (March 4, 2014) — Digital Sandbox KC announced today it has successfully helped 19 start-up […]

Six Additional Projects Get Digital Sandbox KC OK

Six additional companies have been approved for proof-of-concept projects through Digital Sandbox KC advisory team.  Digital Sandbox KC provides proof-of-concept resources to support early-stage commercialization processes.  Since February Digital Sandbox […]

LittleHoots Launches Crowdfunding Campaign

LittleHoots has launched an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign to accelerate development of its memory-keeping app for parents.

Knoda Hires 2 Engineers Including CTO

Knoda has hired startup veteran Adam England as the firm’s chief technology officer. England’s responsibilities will include architecture design, roadmap prioritization and leading the development staff.

Informed Health Solutions Awarded $10,000 in Marketing Services

EAG Advertising & Marketing (EAG) announced Informed Health Solutions (IHS) as the recipient of a $10,000 small business marketing package, including consulting and creative services.

Tune Takeout Signs Live Recording Deal with Blues Sensation Samantha Fish

Samantha Fish  of the European based record label, Ruf Records (www.rufrecords.de ) has signed with Tune Takeout to record, sell and distribute digital recordings of select live music performances.   The first performance to be […]

Knoda iPhone App Now Available in App Store

Knoda, a Kansas City-based company, released an iPhone application today that allows users to make predictions about anything. Knoda encourages friendly competition around the already-pervasive action of predicting the future.

ShotTracker, The Latest in Basketball Innovation, Improves Shooting Performance

For years, cyclists and runners have relied on devices to measure performance and track their improvement, but basketball technology has lagged behind. Until now, that is. ShotTracker is the first piece of affordable, wearable technology for basketball players who want to improve their shooting performance.

Knoda Secures Seed Financing Round, Prepares for iPhone Launch

Kansas City-Based Prediction Startup Lands Funding from Local Angel Investor Kansas City, Mo. – November, 6, 2013 – Knoda (NODE-uh), a Kansas City-based startup, secured seed funding this week from […]

Eight More Innovative Companies Selected for Assistance by Digital Sandbox KC

Eight more companies have joined the ranks of innovative Kansas City entrepreneurs selected for resources and assistance by Digital Sandbox KC. These companies will receive early-stage proof of concept support to help bring their ideas to commercialization.

Digital Sandbox Approves Funding for Four More Innovations

The Digital Sandbox KC advisory board has approved four more innovations for proof-of-concept funding and support. To date the program has worked with more than 100 innovative companies throughout the […]

Tune Takeout Set to Record and Distribute the FanAddict Crossroads Music Festival September 14, 2013

FanAddict and SpiceofLife Productions, festival organizers, partner with Tune Takeout to sell downloads of the festivals’ live music performances

Local Ruckus Announces Sprint Partnership, Hires Tech Talent

Local Ruckus Announces Sprint Partnership, Hires Tech Talent

Digital Sandbox Helps DivvyHQ Secure Venture Capital Funding

DivvyHQ (Alluresoft, LLC) has received funding from Digital Sandbox KC and Dundee Venture Capital of Omaha, Neb., to ramp up marketing and operations for the cloud-based content planning platform.

SportsPhotos.com Featured in New York Publication

Photography by Brandon Schatz of SportsPhotos.com was featured on the cover of New York City’s Metro newspaper. The photo featured The Color Run in Brooklyn.

KCPT Showcases Digital Sandbox

Startups, Made in Kansas City on KCPT provide an in-depth look at how Digital Sandbox and KCSourceLink support the startup community.

Digital Sandbox Company SportsPhotos.com Selected for TechStars Patriot Boot Camp

Brandon Schatz of SportsPhotos.com has been selected for the TechStars Patriot Boot Camp, scheduled for July 17-19 in Washington, D.C.

PlanetReuse Marketplace Selected for Wall Street Journal Contest

PlanetReuse Marketplace, a Kansas City-based startup is in the running for the title of The Wall Street Journal’s Startup of the Year.

Digital Sandbox KC identifies second round of concepts and companies ready for prototype support

Digital Sandbox KC identifies second round of concepts and companies ready for prototype support

Digital Sandbox KC Takes First Steps In Helping Companies Prove Concepts

Digital Sandbox KC Takes First Steps In Helping Companies Prove Concepts

Digital Sandbox KC Announces Leadership, Processes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Digital Sandbox KC, an unprecedented partnership among private companies, universities, entrepreneurial support organizations and government agencies across the Kansas City region, today announced key details of the effort to spur development of local IT-related start-up businesses.

Creating a Digital Sandbox for KC

What is Digital Sandbox KC? Let’s find out!