Investing in impact

Kansas City’s Jordin Johnson is set to open Blanc Champagne Bar, which aims to redefine how champagne is enjoyed by celebrating everyday moments. Blanc will feature a diverse, predominantly female staff, while supporting local brewers, chefs, artists, and small businesses with rooftop pop-up events.

Elaina Paige Thomas, founder of The Next Paige Agency, is empowering local creatives in Kansas City. Since its launch in 2021, the agency has generated more than $400,000 in work for local artists and performers in film, television, and theater without requiring them to leave their hometown.

Kansas City artist Deante Howard transformed his passion for "elevated graffiti" into a successful business after a lucrative day selling prints at a Chiefs game, marking his launch as a professional artist.

Hosted in Kansas City's Historic Northeast, Celebrate AMERI’KANA brought together national, local, and youth performers to celebrate the city's rich and diverse music scene.

Liley Villazan, owner of Magnolia Beauty Academy, empowers people across the Kansas City metro by turning their hobbies into six-figure careers as nail technicians.

The Russell’s owner, Amante Domingo, needed cash quickly for a new HVAC system at his restaurant. The financing’s predatory rates, however, nearly de-railed his plans to open another eatery.