A new project will marshal resources from throughout the area to support entrepreneurs with innovative solutions for tackling challenges posed by the pandemic.
KC Digital Drive and the UMKC Innovation Center are searching for at least 20 fellows for Comeback KC Ventures, with the goal of creating at least 10 new businesses, 30 new jobs and $5 million in follow-on funding by October 2022. The project is funded through a $750,000 SPRINT Challenge grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration.
Comeback KC Ventures hosted four discovery sessions with entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs, which led to more than 300 ideas, including an air-shield mask and using blockchain to expedite publication of medical research papers, KC Digital Drive Program Manager Jim Starcev said. Another idea was to create a system for pooled ordering from restaurants and grocery stores to enable delivery to geographic areas that otherwise wouldn’t receive service.
Starcev said the program is looking for fellows who only have an idea as well as ones who have started companies and need help with growth. Program leaders also want to build a diverse group of fellows.
“We’re really trying to help entrepreneurs start and/or grow a business,” he said. “That is our main driver, and to respond to Covid.”
Comeback KC Ventures gives fellows access to UMKC Innovation Center’s Elevationlab Tech Venture, a nine-session course to give technology and science-based entrepreneurs a proven framework and network of connections to help grow ideas into viable businesses. Comeback KC Ventures also includes a peer-to-peer group, assistance in building a three-person advisory board and other resources, such as navigating Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant applications. Fellows with tech-driven ideas will be connected to Digital Sandbox KC, which awards proof-of-concept grants.
Another perk for entrepreneurs are demo days to showcase their work and connect with potential clients and investors. Starcev stressed that organizers want this to be a community project and would welcome individuals who want to be mentors, advisers or share other expertise.
