Guest Post: 3 ways pitching to private investors is different than pitching your company at 1 Million Cups

Guest post by Jeff Shackelford  In the world of entrepreneurship, the number of times each day that you have to describe your business can be overwhelming. In Kansas City, we’re lucky to have programs like 1 Million Cups, a weekly gathering of local entrepreneurs. These programs help knit together the startup community, publicize early-stage companies, and help startup receive and …

ECJC opens our doors to the community

Last week, we opened the doors of our new location at 4220 Shawnee Mission Parkway to the community. Couldn’t make it? Here’s what you missed. True to the high-growth business community, our happy hour had some early adopters…er, arrivals. .@BVCAPS‘s @coreymohn is our #OpenHouse early adopter! #techKC #KC pic.twitter.com/uv0GRMlXUL — ECJC (@ECJC_KS) May 7, 2015

Startup Funding and Raising Capital

Extending Kansas Angel Investment Tax Credit is a must for entrepreneurs and investors

Today, the Kansas House of Representatives—specifically, the Committee on Taxation chaired by Johnson County’s own Rep. Marvin Kleeb—will hold a hearing on the extension of the Kansas Angel Investment Tax Credit. This credit, which is currently scheduled to sunset in 2016, is an important tool for Kansas investors and early stage companies. Simply put, it helps more Kansas companies secure …

In its 20th year, ECJC makes big changes–inside and out

New brand identity, website and office location will help non-profit enhance capability to serve Kansas City’s entrepreneurial community FAIRWAY, Kan. – (April 30, 2015) – The Enterprise Center in Johnson County (ECJC) revealed its new, updated brand identity and website this morning, following the organization’s relocation to 4220 Shawnee Mission Parkway. The ECJC is a non-profit organization, supported by funds …

Talking to Angels and Whales

How to win over the right kind of investors for your innovative startup. I often hear people say that raising money is hard. Frankly, it is intended to be. However, the process is harder than necessary when entrepreneurs aren’t well-versed in the capital markets and the mindsets of those who typically invest in early-stage businesses. In fact, seeking out investors …