Spotlight: Aishwarya Munjal
From Global Startups to Midwest Momentum: How Aishwarya Munjal is Championing Innovation Across Missouri
When Aishwarya Munjal moved to Kansas City this summer, she brought more than just a suitcase—she brought a global perspective on startups, a deep belief in early-stage founders, and a serious mission: to help Missouri’s innovation economy thrive.
As a Venture Associate at Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC), Aishwarya supports early-stage tech companies across the state through equity investments and grants. From fast-growing digital health startups to some of KC’s most promising accelerators, her work ensures entrepreneurs have the capital—and the confidence—to go big.
Backing Builders with Bold Ideas
At MTC, Aishwarya plays a hands-on role in fueling Missouri’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The organization has supported regional powerhouses like Digital Sandbox, BioNexus KC, and LaunchKC, while investing in innovative startups like AskSamie, SaRa Health, Backstitch, and Attane Health.
But for Aishwarya, it’s about more than term sheets.
“We aren’t just investing in companies—we’re investing in people’s stories and vision.”
From Global Experience to Local Impact
Before landing in KC, Aishwarya was immersed in the global startup ecosystem, working across industries and continents. That experience shaped how she supports founders today.
Whether it’s helping local startups think globally or connecting them to outside capital, she’s on a mission to make Missouri a top-tier destination for innovation.
“Early-stage investing requires a unique balance between optimism, delusion, and skepticism. I love navigating that.”
Finding Her People in KC
Since arriving, Aishwarya has jumped into the Kansas City community with both feet. She’s been a regular face at New2KC events, BioNexus KC, Keystone Sessions, and is especially looking forward to this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) and MidXMidwest.
She’s also on a mission to make sure founders know about the resources available to them through MTC.
“I want more Kansas City companies in our portfolio. There’s so much potential here.”
Why KC? It’s the Community.
What sets Kansas City apart in Aishwarya’s eyes? The people.
“Everyone here is warm, generous, and proudly rooted in KC. It’s a place where strangers become collaborators—and eventually, friends.”
When she’s not scouting new investments or attending ecosystem events, you might find her browsing antique shops, exploring new neighborhoods, or on a quest to find the best Matcha Latte in town.
Get Connected
Aishwarya’s always open to meeting new founders, learning about bold ideas, and helping innovators scale. Reach out on LinkedIn—or say hi if you see her at your favorite coffee shop.
We’ve been hearing for years that locals want MTC to have more of a presence in KC; Now we have Aishwarya here! Let’s take advantage and welcome her to the KC Startup community.
Don’t forget to tell us who is New2KC and needs to be highlighted in this community built to better connect the startup, tech, and innovation community. Check back next week as we highlight another talented leader on the move in KC!