News Summary
In a significant boost for local entrepreneurs, ten businesses from Kansas City, Missouri, have been selected for the 2025 DoorDash Accelerator program. This initiative aims to provide resources and mentorship to support these businesses as they navigate challenges and seek growth opportunities. Each participating company will receive a $5,000 grant and a $1,000 advertising credit on the DoorDash platform. The program, running for 12 weeks, focuses on enhancing the businesses’ visibility, financial practices, and marketing strategies.
Kansas City, Missouri: Ten Local Businesses Selected for 2025 DoorDash Accelerator Program
Ten businesses in Kansas City, Missouri, have been selected to participate in the 2025 DoorDash Accelerator program. This initiative is designed to support local entrepreneurs as they navigate challenges and seek growth opportunities. The announcement was made by the Office of Mayor Quinton Lucas on May 12, 2025.
The businesses selected for the program include a diverse mix ranging from restaurants to flower shops. Notable participants include Jovito’s Cafe & Deli, Baker’s Cafe, Bella Floral Design, Dante’s Rolling Food Joint, Doughtroit, Fern Cafe, Hurdwell, Jonny Burritos, LLC, Leggo My Eggroll, Stix Restaurant, LLC, Tokyo Steakhouse, Fifth & Emery Frozen Yogurt & Chocolate, Gomers Wine and Spirits, Mixing Bowl On The Go, PH Coffee LLC, Ruby Jean’s Juicery, SAUCED, and Shop Local KC Wah Gwan Zero Zero Handmade Pasta.
The application process for the program concluded in late April 2025, reflecting a significant interest from local businesses seeking to grow and adapt in an increasingly competitive environment. Each of the selected businesses will receive a $5,000 grant and a $1,000 advertising credit on the DoorDash platform to enhance their visibility and reach.
Program Details and Duration
The DoorDash Accelerator program will run for 12 weeks, from May through July 2025. Participating businesses will engage in one-on-one mentorship and tailored programming designed to address their unique challenges. The program offers a range of resources, including financing options, certifications, and contracting assistance, which can be crucial for small businesses seeking to thrive in a post-pandemic market.
Support and Training Offered
The program emphasizes partnerships with local organizations to provide workshops focused on vital areas such as financial practices and marketing strategies. Entrepreneurs will also receive training on how to access capital and navigate the business loan process, essential skills for survival in today’s economy. This initiative aligns with DoorDash’s mission to support local economies and promote entrepreneurship within communities.
Context and Importance
Small businesses across the nation face numerous challenges, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation, and disruptions from construction projects that impact foot traffic. The co-owner of Jovito’s Cafe & Deli highlighted the necessity of the Accelerator program in addressing these issues, demonstrating a broader sentiment shared among local entrepreneurs vying for growth and resilience.
Mayor Quinton Lucas reiterated the importance of supporting local businesses through collaborative efforts with private organizations like DoorDash. The initiative aims to equip business owners with the necessary tools to optimize their operations, ensuring they can adapt to changing conditions while building a sustainable future.
Since its inception in 2021, the DoorDash Accelerator program has successfully supported over 1,000 entrepreneurs in various U.S. cities. As Kansas City joins this growing list, the chosen businesses are presented with a unique opportunity to better their services, increase their market reach, and ultimately improve their financial health.
The selection of Kansas City’s ten businesses for the 2025 DoorDash Accelerator program marks a significant step towards fostering local entrepreneurship and reinforcing community support in the face of ongoing economic challenges. As the program unfolds, its impact on these businesses will be closely observed, setting a precedent for future support initiatives in the area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ten Kansas City Businesses Selected for DoorDash Accelerator
Kansas City Launches Accelerator Program with DoorDash
Additional Resources
- KSHB: DoorDash Chooses 10 Kansas City, Missouri Small Businesses
- Fox 4 KC: 10 Kansas City Small Businesses Chosen for DoorDash Accelerator Program
- DoorDash News: Introducing 2025 Accelerator Participants
- Startland News: DoorDash Accelerator Kansas City
- Wikipedia: Small Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
