Tech Venture Studio KC (Digital Sandbox KC)
Industry Focus
Geographic Focus
Tech Venture Studio KC, operating primarily through its flagship Digital Sandbox KC program, is an unprecedented partnership among private companies, universities, entrepreneurial support organizations, and government agencies designed to foster innovation and support early-stage technology entrepreneurs in the Kansas City region. Founded in 2013 and led by the UMKC Innovation Center, the studio provides proof-of-concept funding, mentorship, and resources to transform visionary ideas into viable products and services. Digital Sandbox KC serves as a cornerstone for tech startups in Missouri and Kansas, offering critical early-stage resources that address two key gaps in the entrepreneurial ecosystem: connecting large industry to entrepreneurial and university research networks, and providing technical assistance for early-stage concept development. Unlike traditional accelerators or venture capital firms, Digital Sandbox does not take equity stakes in companies, instead operating as a grant-based support system. The organization has become a vital catalyst for economic growth, having funded over 203 technology projects since inception, with 84% of companies receiving follow-on funding totaling over $243 million and 16 successful exits. Tech Venture Studio KC also operates complementary programs including KCInvestED (investor education), UMKC Office of Commercialization (university tech transfer), and Whiteboard2Boardroom (connecting entrepreneurs with research and licensable technologies).
2013
12 Companies
3X Higher