Digital Sandbox KC is looking for young, Olathe-based companies that could use its help with proof-of-concept advice and support.

The new initiative is thanks to a partnership between Digital Sandbox KC and the City of Olathe, which is providing financial support.

Digital Sandbox KC leaders hope to work with six to eight Olathe startups over the next 12 months, said Jeff Shackelford, the Sandbox’s director. The goal is to not only help early-stage ventures ramp up, but to create jobs in Olathe as well.

“Digital Sandbox has done a phenomenal job helping early-stage entrepreneurs move from concept to business start,” said Michael Wilkes, Olathe’s city manager. “We know that we have many creative entrepreneurs in Olathe who can use Digital Sandbox to turn their idea into a growing Olathe business that creates new jobs in our city.”

This is the first time that Sandbox leaders have tried to spur job creation in one particular city.

Since it was founded in early 2013, Sandbox-supported companies have gone on to create 181 jobs and win $17.8 million in follow-on funding. But most of the support has gone to companies on the Missouri side of the metro.

Digital Sandbox KC recently agreed to assist PerfectCube, an Olathe startup that offers business analytics tools for small retailers.

“As one of the area’s largest suburbs, I’m confident that there are many entrepreneurs with great ideas in Olathe,” Shackelford said. “What we intend to do with this partnership is quickly turn concepts into business startups that create new jobs for Olathe. And, in the long run, we hope to find the next Garmin that benefits the entire metro area.”

For more information about Digital Sandbox KC support for startups in Olathe, visit this website. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis.