Startland News is a daily, digital-first publication that shines a spotlight on entrepreneurship, innovation, and small-business activity in the Greater Kansas City area. Founded in 2015, it operates under Startland, a nonprofit, community-focused organization that provides administrative support while safeguarding the newsroom’s editorial independence. The publication’s reporting goes beyond business metrics, humanizing the experiences of founders, creatives, and risk-takers, and showcasing the ways local ventures impact the broader community. Guided by principles of community journalism, Startland News produces stories that amplify voices often overlooked, covering more than 500 entrepreneurs, makers, and innovators annually. Its team prioritizes inclusivity, equity, and representation, ensuring the narratives reflect the diversity of Kansas City’s business ecosystem. The outlet maintains strict editorial independence from donors, sponsors, and its parent nonprofit, following ethical guidelines set by the Institute for Nonprofit News and the Society for Professional Journalists. Funding comes from grants, sponsorships, and gifts provided by foundations, businesses, and individuals, with notable support from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and local corporate partners. By combining rigorous reporting with community engagement, Startland News functions as a discovery platform that elevates the region’s entrepreneurial stories while protecting journalistic integrity.

Last updated date: September 2026

Location:
Kansas City, United States
Year the organization
started publishing:
2015
Languages:
English
Type of coverage:
Local
Area of coverage:
Greater Kansas City area

Content

Type of content produced by theme:
Entrepreneurship
Journalism genres:
Reviews
Interviews and reporting
Information services
Journalism coverage types and techniques:
Live coverage of events
Engaged, community-driven or participatory journalism
Explanatory journalism
Tech platforms and other mediums used:
Website
Social media platforms
Facebook
Instagram

Management and team

Founders

Female:
0
Male:
1
Founders:
Lee's Summit Tribune
Directors:

Team

Full-time employees:
0
Part-time employees:
0
Freelancers or consultants:
0
Volunteers:
0

Business structure and revenue sources

Organization tax status:
Non-profit
All revenue sources reported by media leaders:
Grants
Audience support / reader revenue
Grants from private donor organisations
Grants or investment from philanthropic organisations
Individual donations

Why is this profile included?

This media outlet is part of our directory because it meets SembraMedia’s inclusion criteria: it produces original content, serves the public interest, and works with independence and transparency. This profile was developed using information provided directly by the media outlet, through surveys or interviews. We aim to keep the information current, but SembraMedia does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, and recommends verifying any key details with the media organization.

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