Kansas City Gears Up for the Second Annual Middle of the Map Fest

We could not be more thrilled that spring weather is making an appearance in Kansas City—the patios are open, the Royals are back in season and perhaps most importantly, the startup scene is gearing up for some major entrepreneurial events.  And that includes the second annual Middle of the Map Fest. 

Kansas City’s Middle of the Map Fest, presented by Ink Magazine and The Record Machine, is a rock festival to promote the city’s culture.  The festival is much more than just music, though.  For the second year, Middle of the Map Fest will incorporate a Forum meant just for KC business leaders and entrepreneurs as well as a Film portion for movie/film buffs. 

With more than 100 bands having played at four venues from April 4-6, the Middle of the Map Fest Music portion has already gotten off to a great start.  However, the event is far from over.  Middle of the Map culminates with its first Film Fest May 1-5, showing more than 15 films.

Sandwiched in between is the Forum from April 17-19.  Some of the most prominent figures in the Kansas City business community will be presenting as speakers and in panels.  The Middle of the Map Fest Forum is a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to hear stories and advice from other Kansas City businessmen who have found success in their industries. 

Thursday’s speakers include:

·       John McDonald, Founder and President of Boulevard Brewing Company

·       Adam Jones, historic preservation architectural designer and developer

·       Stephen F. Kingsmore, Director of the Children’s Mercy Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine

Friday’s speakers include:

·       Sandy Kemper, Founder and Chairman of the Board of both Pollenware and The Collector’s Fund

·       Robb Heineman, Chief Executive Officer of Sporting Club

Also included in the Middle of the Map Fest Forum are the eleven panels over topics important to entrepreneurs.  Topics and times can be found here.

The Middle of the Map Fest Forum takes place April 17-19 at both OfficePort and StagePort.  At the end of each day, there will be after-parties hosted by Missouri Bank and Barkley.  Tickets for the Middle of the Map Fest Forum are $50 and can be purchased through The Record Machine’s website.  We hope to see you there!