Civic Saint, a Black-owned construction company in Kansas City, is transforming homeownership with sustainable, affordable housing made from compressed earth blocks. Founded by artist and activist Godfrey Riddle, the company builds resilient, eco-friendly homes that address climate change, housing inequality, and racial justice — proving that the future of housing can be both grounded and revolutionary.

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.

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.

Dr. Shelly Cooper leveraged her $25,000 prize money from the AltCap Your Biz Pitch Competition to better provide health care to children from low-income communities.