LaunchKC Reveals 2026 Cohort Fueling the City’s Innovation Economy

The Downtown Council (DTC) and the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri (EDCKC) proudly announce the eight startup companies selected as recipients of the 2026 LaunchKC grants competition.

LaunchKC revealed the winners at the 4th annual LaunchKC Liftoff hosted at J. Rieger & Co. Distillery — now recognized as one of the largest and most high-impact entrepreneurship event

We understand the power of local companies and believe these start-ups have the potential to become major job creators, economic drivers, and the next big KC headquarters,” said Jim Erickson, EDCKC Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Entrepreneurship is a winning economic development strategy.”

Beginning in August, LaunchKC conducted a nationwide search for innovative early-stage tech companies ready to scale in Kansas City. More than 150 applicants were evaluated through a rigorous multi-round process by judges including founders, investors, industry experts, and past winners.

Eight companies were ultimately selected, each receiving a $60,000 non-dilutive grant along with business mentorship and technical assistance, access to a strong network of investors, partners, and peers, workspace in downtown Kansas City, and exclusive programming and support from the LaunchKC team.LaunchKC takes no equity in the companies it supports.

Emphasis was placed on tech companies with high-growth potential that see Kansas City as an ideal home for their business. “There’s so much momentum in downtown KC,” said Tommy Wilson, DTC Director of Business Recruitment. “These startups are enhancing the fabric of our dynamic and growing community.”

Applicants were required to be headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri — or willing to relocate — reinforcing LaunchKC’s priority to scale companies that will grow and hire locally.

Since its first competition in 2015, LaunchKC has supported 137 companies, helping attract more than $650 million in follow-on capital and creating 1,640 jobs. More than two-thirds of companies supported by LaunchKC are led by women and/or minority founders.

Meet the 2026 LaunchKC Grant Recipients:

Ask Samie:
Empowers older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers to live independently through an AI-driven platform that provides occupational-therapy-approved products, resources, and recommendations to support aging in place.

Block and Mortar
Transforms real estate development with an intelligent operating system that leverages AI, real-time data, and project connectivity to streamline decisions from concept to construction across all asset types.

Cyphra
Advances outdoor material handling with autonomous wheelbarrow systems that improve efficiency and safety in construction, landscaping, and excavation — offering turnkey, field-ready solutions requiring no complex setup or training.

dScribe AI
Optimizes industrial supply chains using AI-powered computer vision that monitors bulk materials in real time, helping companies gain full visibility across sites to enhance logistics, efficiency, and operational control.

EZBizPortal
Modernizes healthcare supply chains through an AI-driven platform that unites hospitals, manufacturers, and vendors for end-to-end medical device management — ensuring compliance, transparency, and operational excellence.

ULOM
Empowers immigrants, refugees, and international students to thrive by connecting newcomers with resources, community, and opportunities that foster belonging, stability, and long-term success in their new home.

Valor
Transforms the cancer journey through a digital platform that combines AI-driven navigation with human support, connecting patients, survivors, and caregivers to personalized tools and programs that promote healing and resilience.

Whimsi Beans
Reimagines children’s nutrition with sensory-friendly, nutrient-packed sprinkles that make vitamins fun and inclusive — turning daily routines into joyful rituals that nurture family wellness.