3 Startups Join Digital Sandbox KC for Project Funding, Mentoring, Connections

Digital Sandbox KC has accepted three new startups into its program that will each receive up to $20,000 in project funding. These companies have demonstrated exceptional potential for growth and innovation, and their inclusion in Digital Sandbox KC reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering technological advancement and entrepreneurship in the region.

“We’ve been truly impressed by the expertise and passion these founders bring to the table,” says Jill Meyer, senior director of Technology Venture Studio, which houses Digital Sandbox KC. “Their unique industry insights and hard work are key to their promising futures, and we’re excited to help them realize their vision. Digital Sandbox KC remains committed to fueling innovation and creating a robust startup ecosystem.”

From optimizing trucking logistics to revolutionizing peer-to-peer recommendations and streamlining compliance with AI, these startups are poised to make a significant impact in their industries.

These three companies join more than 200 other startups that have received support from the program since 2013. Read more about the impact of the Sandbox in the Digital Sandbox KC 2024 Impact Report.

In addition to receiving up to $20,000 in project funding, startups in the program gain access to the Technology Venture Studio community and technical project support. To submit your idea and pitch to the Sandbox, apply for the next quarter at techventurestudiokc.com/digital-sandbox.

We are honored to partner with this group of companies as we help them lay the groundwork for the future of their startup. Meet the three new companies joining the Sandbox.

NoDwell (Kansas City, MO)

NoDwell helps trucking carriers improve first and last mile efficiencies by bringing the ‘drop and hook’ model to more carriers and facilities. Traditionally available only to high-volume operations, NoDwell offers a new fractional option, making this solution accessible to a wider range of businesses and streamlining their operations.

“Digital Sandbox KC will move the business forward by adding a software platform element to facilitate these services we already provide with exponentially increased efficiency, transparency and algorithms,” says founder Blake Lappan.

Roz (Olathe, KS)

Roz uses AI-powered automation to help B2B leaders answer compliance questions smarter and faster. Its mission is to empower leaders to drive growth with confidence by making genuine compliance accessible and achievable for organizations of all sizes, from early-stage startups to large enterprises.

“We are incredibly grateful for the project funding from Digital Sandbox KC, which will significantly accelerate our momentum toward our Open Beta launch,” says co-founder Donnie Hampton. “This funding is crucial in advancing our product development, allowing us to bring our solution to market faster.”

Whatabout (Kansas City, MO)

Whatabout is a peer-to-peer recommendation hub for consumers and a word-of mouth marketing machine for businesses. It is reinventing the way people search, analyze and choose products and services. The platform breaks existing algorithms and pay-to-play models, enabling users to share and discover products, services and experiences they truly love benefiting both consumers and brands.

“Digital Sandbox KC funding is a game changer for our business,” says co-founder Claire Harrison. “Not only will it allow us to capitalize on timing and trends in the advertising market by building faster, better, stronger, but it also will give us the traction we need to springboard our fundraising efforts.”