Kansas City’s innovation scene is kicking off 2026 with momentum, and two Pure Pitch Rally alumni are lighting the way. Roz and Resonus were recently named in Startland News’ 10 Kansas City Startups to Watch in 2026, spotlighting companies poised to make waves in the region this year.

For Roz, the recognition follows a year of focused momentum. Co-founded by Donnie and Sarah Hampton, the company automates the most manual and time-consuming parts of compliance and audit work. After launching in 2024, the team refined its market focus toward audit and risk advisory firms, where demand is highest. With $2.2 million raised to date and pilots with enterprise clients underway, the team is entering 2026 focused on product-market fit and intentional growth.

Resonus reflects a different kind of innovation: one centered on civic connection. Founded by Mitch and Julie Mabrey, the platform enables residents to engage with local government through simple text and web-based conversations and AI-enabled surveys. Following successful pilots in Liberty, Mo., and Myrtle Beach, S.C., Resonus is expanding its reach in 2026 to help cities capture more representative input and make better-informed decisions.

Together, Roz and Resonus demonstrate the strength and diversity of Kansas City’s startup ecosystem, and the impact founders can have when they create solutions rooted in real-world needs. From improving how organizations manage risk and compliance to reshaping how communities connect with local government, these companies reflect the thoughtful, scalable innovation emerging from Kansas City.