Since it was launched three years ago, Digital Sandbox KC has funded 65 proof-of-concept projects with local startups—which have in turn created 34 new companies, 55 new products and 339 jobs paying more than $9 million.

The program just released a full “report card” on how it has helped boost young, emerging ventures.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our Digital Sandbox KC companies,” said Jeff Shackelford, director of Digital Sandbox KC, which is part of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Innovation Center.

“The program is doing just what we hoped it would do: create companies and jobs, and contribute to the local economy. We have the capacity to help several more local entrepreneurs, and we encourage everyone to apply to the Sandbox.”

Here are some of Digital Sandbox KC’s other key performance indicators …

• Its client companies have won more than $28 million in follow-on funding. About 75 percent of Digital Sandbox KC’s funded clients go on and secure follow-on investment from other sources.
• Five of its companies have passed the $1 million mark in sales. Last year, Sandbox clients had sales $3.1 million. The total for the past three years is more than $16.7 million.
• Startups can receive up to $25,000 from Digital Sandbox for help with prototyping, legal fees and other proof-of-concept costs. The average award is closer to $19,000.
• Sandbox clients have won six patents.
• Women are part of 34 percent of Sandbox clients’ founding teams. About 22 percent of those teams include people of color. Another 5 percent of startups have military veterans among their founders.

“We found a gap for support of early, early-stage companies in the digital space. We tested our concept and I think the results indicate that the Sandbox works,” Shackelford said.

“Now, we’re looking to expand the reach of the program into other verticals, like the recently launched Energy Sandbox, and other local markets, like our partnerships with the cities of Olathe and Independence. It’s amazing how much can be accomplished when we collaborate and combine resources to help early-stage entrepreneurs.”

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