Startland

As we begin our 10th year of championing innovation in #KansasCity, we’re excited to share our 2024 Annual Report — a look back at the milestones we’ve achieved and the future we’re building together. In 2024, we: - Expanded our reach, growing to 140,000+ subscribers and strengthening our role as Kansas City’s trusted voice in entrepreneurship. - Launched the Entrepreneurial Teacher Accelerator, empowering educators to bring innovation into classrooms. - Supported 900+ students with immersive learning experiences, connecting them to startup leaders and real-world opportunities. - Deepened our partnerships, securing new grants and corporate sponsorships to sustain and grow our mission. Read the full report now. Visit Startland.org/impact to learn more.

Julie Leonhardt is CEO of Startland, Kansas City’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and expanding economic opportunities. Over the course of her career, Julie has been an executive leader for two of the most globally renowned real estate brands, worked as a real estate finance attorney on Wall Street, and led teams and program development in education and healthcare-focused organizations. She also founded a real estate tech startup and understands how isolating entrepreneurship can be. From her work in corporate structures to startups and nonprofits, Julie has always focused on mentoring and empowering the people around her. She cares deeply about protecting the rights and dignity of all, especially women, the LGBTQ+ community, and those who are marginalized and traditionally underrepresented in business. Julie is a graduate of Westmont College and holds a Juris Doctor degree from Fordham University Law School. She has lived in LA, New York, and London. She is fluent in Spanish and currently lives in Kansas City with her wife, kiddos, their two dogs and chickens! #WomenBuiltThis #SmashTheCeiling #WHM2025 *** March is Women's History Month, and we are celebrating by sharing the inspirational stories and quotes that inspire our members. Every day this month, we'll feature a woman or her words of wisdom. Join us! Comment, repost with your thoughts, or create your own Women's History Month post.

What can we say about Steve Wilson, Jr.? All great things —?and a lot of them. When Steve agreed to join our board, we knew his expertise was vast. But the way he's hit the ground running has been incredible. Leveraging his background in media sales, Steve has so far served our organization by working closely with the team at Startland News. Great things are coming. Watch below to learn why this local leader joined our team. Welcome to Startland, Steve! ????

We are proud partners of ProX. Employers, don't hesitate to get involved. This is an experience you (and the young people involved) won't regret. Deadline is March 1. ?

If there's one thing we love —?it's our city. Thank you New2KC, Jessica Powell, Edward Jones II, and Ty Garretson for joining us in an #InnovationExchange that proved it also has the heart of many beyond our borders. Stay tuned for a full recap from our February conversation, presented by Morgan Stanley. Additional support for the IX series is provided by Spark Coworking - Kansas City and Husch Blackwell. ??? Save the date! We'll be back on stage May 15 at 6:00 P.M. Interested in joining one of our community conversations? Send inquiries to editor@startlandnews.com.

Hey, Deanna Munoz! ???? We couldn't be more proud to add this powerhouse #KansasCity community builder to our board of directors. Deanna's personal mission, commitment to her work, and dedication to doing good are just a few of our favorite things about her. Here's why she's joining us in the land of possibility

Hey there, CJ Kadel –?welcome to Startland! ???? So, why did CJ join our board of directors? He chatted with our friends at Social Apex all about it. Get to know a little more about him below.

We imagine a world where everyone has equal access to the opportunity economy. Where we are all prepared to seize the moment and use our voices. Where people are connected across the entire community. And where stories inspire and celebrate innovators and their big ideas. Meet the talented community builders joining us in making it possible as part of our board of directors. - Rashawn Peterson-Caruthers, Ed. S - Kalinda Calkins - Jennifer Felten - Deanna Munoz - Craig Moore II - CJ Kadel - Scott Henderson - Steve Wilson, Jr. Together, we're inspiring innovation for all. ??

As our city has continued to transform, we have too – and our purpose is even more in focus today. Allow us to reintroduce ourselves and our mission as we begin a new year.