Just funded: Digital Sandbox KC drops the hook for three more emerging tech startups

From optimizing trucking logistics to revolutionizing peer-to-peer recommendations and streamlining compliance with AI, the latest startups funded by Digital Sandbox KC are poised to make a significant impact in their industries, said Jill Meyer. 

“We’ve been truly impressed by the expertise and passion these founders bring to the table,” said Meyer, senior director of Technology Venture Studio at the UMKC Innovation Center, which houses Digital Sandbox KC. “Their unique industry insights and hard work are key to their promising futures, and we’re excited to help them realize their vision.”

The trio of companies each receive up to $20,000 in project funding, as well as gaining access to the Technology Venture Studio community and technical project support.

Click here to learn more about applying for the next round of funding.

“Digital Sandbox KC remains committed to fueling innovation and creating a robust startup ecosystem,” said Meyer, noting those selected for funding and support have demonstrated exceptional potential for growth and innovation.

“We are honored to partner with this group of companies as we help them lay the groundwork for the future of their startup.”

Just-funded startups joining the Sandbox include:

• NoDwell (Blake Lappan), Kansas City, Missouri — Helps trucking carriers improve first and last mile efficiencies by bringing the ‘drop and hook’ model to more carriers and facilities. Traditionally available only to high-volume operations, NoDwell offers a new fractional option, making this solution accessible to a wider range of businesses and streamlining their operations.

• Roz (Donnie Hampton), Olathe, Kansas — Uses AI-powered automation to help B2B leaders answer compliance questions smarter and faster. Its mission is to empower leaders to drive growth with confidence by making genuine compliance accessible and achievable for organizations of all sizes, from early-stage startups to large enterprises. 

• Whatabout (Karli Kujawa, Justin Axtell, Claire Harrison), Kansas City, Missouri — A peer-to-peer recommendation hub for consumers and a word-of mouth marketing machine for businesses. It is reinventing the way people search, analyze and choose products and services. The platform breaks existing algorithms and pay-to-play models, enabling users to share and discover products, services and experiences they truly love benefiting both consumers and brands. 

These companies’ inclusion in Digital Sandbox KC reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering technological advancement and entrepreneurship in the region, she added.

They join more than 200 other startups that have received support from the program since 2013.

Click here to read more about the impact of the Sandbox in the Digital Sandbox KC 2024 Impact Report.  

“Digital Sandbox KC funding is a game changer for our business,” said Whatabout co-founder Claire Harrison. “Not only will it allow us to capitalize on timing and trends in the advertising market by building faster, better, stronger, but it also will give us the traction we need to springboard our fundraising efforts.” 

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