Meet the Cohort: ScaleUP! KC’s Latest Brew Hits with Some Familiar Flavors and Faces

Kansas City Welcomes New Entrepreneurs

A fresh wave of aspiring entrepreneurs has just been introduced in Kansas City as the 14th cohort of **ScaleUP! Kansas City** kicks off. This latest group, comprised of 20 vibrant businesses, showcases a notable number of beverage-related ventures alongside a rich mix of other industries.

A Diverse Group Ready to Scale

From **home insulation** to **boutique clothing**, this cohort reflects the dynamic spirit of the Kansas City business scene. Among the participants, a total of six are dedicated to the beverage industry, emphasizing KC’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative drinks.

Jill Hathaway, the program coordinator, emphasizes the supportive environment that ScaleUP! provides, stating, “This transformative program gives these top-tier business owners the training, confidence, and the network they need to scale the region’s next multimillion-dollar businesses.”

What ScaleUP! KC Offers

Since its inception nine years ago, ScaleUP! KC has been committed to empowering entrepreneurs by helping them build the necessary strategies and plans for sustainable growth. This year’s cohort will benefit from mentorship, resources, and connections to navigate the path of entrepreneurship more effectively.

The Latest Cohort: A Closer Look

The new ScaleUP! cohort includes some exciting businesses:

• Brent Anderson, Friction Beer – A charming brewery and taproom set in a historic Shawnee location.
• Diana Brauer, KS Spray Foam Insulation – Focused on energy efficiency in building envelopes.
• Eric Flanagan, Flanagan Consulting – Owner of multiple bars in the Kansas City area.
• Katia Holland, Post Coffee Company – A community-centered coffee business thriving for a decade.
• Alex Lindsey, West Bottoms Whiskey Co. – Experts in crafting and aging fine American whiskey.
• Rachelle Hofstetter, Plato’s Closet – Selling trendy, gently used clothing for the youth.
• And many more, including startups in home care, fitness, and screenprinting.

Empowering Local Businesses

Hathaway highlights the unique opportunity this program offers, noting, “ScaleUP! KC gives business owners the chance to work on their business and not just in it.” With a focus on overcoming challenges and redefining approaches, participants are set to discover fresh perspectives on growth.

The Impact of ScaleUP! Kansas City

Since launching, ScaleUP! KC has assisted over 230 business owners in the region. The results speak volumes: many graduates see significant revenue increases and expanded operations after completing the program. The initiative is fully funded by partnerships with local organizations and universities, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the resources they need.

Looking Ahead

As this new cohort embarks on their journey, the excitement in the air is palpable. “It’s amazing to see what the hundreds of ScaleUP! Kansas City alums have accomplished,” Hathaway concludes. With the region’s economy likely to benefit from their innovations and growth, all eyes are on these emerging business leaders.