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Skill Building
We work with starters to develop real-world, problem solving skills, and with educators to facilitate this type of learning every day in the classroom.
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Storytelling
We tell the story of Kansas City’s innovation community of entrepreneurs, startups, creatives, makers and risk-takers through our solutions-based newsroom — Startland News.
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Social Capital
We host a variety of events intended to create a better-connected, more-informed entrepreneurial and innovation community in Kansas City.
Our Mission
Unlock the starter in everyone.
Our Vision
We imagine vibrant, prosperous communities where everyone has the confidence, skills, and opportunity to innovate and create.
Our Values
COMMUNITY
We create impact in our community by actively building connections and uplifting current and
potential starters. We are intentional with whom we work in order to improve our offerings and
widen access to those we serve.
AUTHENTICITY
We are open and honest about our intentions, goals, shortcomings, and needs. We value
working with like-minded partners and individuals.
INNOVATION
We exist to inspire innovation. We embody, develop, and promote entrepreneurial thinking and
human-centered problem solving that creates positive change in communities.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING
We commit to drive representation and promote equal access to opportunities. We foster an
inclusive work environment and learn from perspectives different from our own. We will always
stand against intolerance and discrimination.
Our History
“KC becomes the first city to receive Google Fiber — gigabit residential internet — and the Kansas City Startup Village (KCSV) is formed.”
“The Startup Village reaches 14 properties and 32 startups; welcomes 1,000s of visitors. The Center of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Development (CEED) is founded.”
“The Kansas City Startup Foundation officially forms as a 501c3. CEED launches MECA Challenge, Startland News, and Village Square — a coworking space in KCSV.”
“All CEED assets and programs are donated to the Kansas City Startup Foundation forming the core of the company we know today.”
“Kansas City Startup Foundation rebrands to Startland following the close of KCSV.”
“Startland launches the Social Change Internship Program. ”
“Julie Leonhardt is named Executive Director as Startland scales its focus and commitment to storytelling, skill building, and social capital programs. ”