Codefi Foundation announces AI-driven statewide relaunch, expansion beyond Missouri

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MISSOURI (KBSI) — The Codefi Foundation announced a comprehensive relaunch of its programs, marking a strategic shift toward artificial intelligence–native workforce development and startup support across Missouri and beyond.

Dr. James Stapleton, co-founder and chief executive officer, said the relaunch follows a yearlong internal evaluation of the organization’s direction after more than a decade of operations. Since its founding, Codefi has supported more than 60 startups, trained more than 600 people in technology skills and helped companies in its programs raise more than $60 million in follow-on capital, resulting in more than $100 million in economic impact statewide.

Stapleton said the organization made leadership and staffing changes over the past year to better position Codefi for its next phase and to align with emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

As part of the relaunch, Codefi announced five interconnected, AI-native programs:

AI Skills, offering hands-on training through multiple tracks, including a 10-week “Prompt to Product” program designed to take founders from idea to working application, as well as advanced programs for developers.

Startup Studio, powered by Codefi’s Traction Studio AI platform, which guides founders from idea validation through investor readiness using AI tools combined with human mentorship.

Dev Studio, providing software development services such as prototypes, minimum viable products and custom AI tools for startups and organizations.

Builders Lab, an organizational transformation program centered on collaborative “vibeathon” build events using AI-assisted development tools.

Missouri Ecosystem, a statewide network of events, partnerships and industry-specific startup studios aimed at strengthening innovation in sectors such as health care, agriculture and advanced manufacturing.

For the first time, all Codefi programs will be available statewide, including in Kansas City, St. Louis, Columbia, Springfield and rural communities where the organization first launched its efforts. Stapleton said the expansion is intended to connect rural and urban innovation networks, not replace Codefi’s rural focus.

Codefi officials said programs will continue to be offered at the lowest possible cost for Missourians, with free or reduced-cost access supported through grants.

The organization also announced plans for limited national expansion after receiving interest from universities, economic development groups and organizations outside Missouri. Stapleton said national partnerships will help sustain Codefi’s operations while preserving affordability for in-state participants.

Chris Dittmer, vice chair of the Codefi Foundation Board of Directors, said the board believes the AI-native restructuring strengthens the organization’s ability to deliver workforce development and startup support, particularly for rural Missourians, while extending its reach beyond the state.

Codefi leaders said the relaunch reflects a long-term strategy focused on sustainable growth, innovation and expanding access to the digital economy for communities traditionally overlooked.