Business development : article
Just as the reference to the 1890s editorial in The (New York) Sun indicates, there is funding in the capital world for many businesses if they cannot get it from traditional local or institutional banks.
ELDON, Mo. – “Grow Your Farm” sessions for beginning farmers start Saturday, March 10, at the Eldon Career Center. University of Missouri Extension agricultural business specialist Patricia Barrett says the practical seminars and field days give attendees opportunities to learn and network.
KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – “Grow Your Farm” sessions for beginning farmers begin March 14 at the University of Missouri Extension Center in Adair County, Kirksville.
Ten Missouri small businesses from diverse industries are participating in the 2022 Elevate program to advance beyond the second stage.
These suggestions are provided to assist you, but in sharing them, we recognize that each business and situation is unique. We encourage you to consider each principle and apply as you believe best fits your business situation and your relationship with your employees.
1. Communicate…
After leaving successful careers with the Illinois Department of Transportation in 1994, Abe and Nicole Adewale found themselves in St. Louis. With their shared values of trust, family, passion, and leadership, they decided to start their own construction and engineering firm.
Agricultural lenders across Missouri are invited to attend the 2025 Agricultural Lenders Seminar series, which is designed to equip professionals with essential updates for the 2026 growing season. The series looks at commodity markets, production costs, farmland values and region-specific topics…
St. Louis‑based ALL Solutions Inc. landed a nearly $1 M DLA contract using PTAC guidance, expanded its team, and diversified into cleaning services.
FULTON, Mo. – Cody Waters of Fulton is armed to farm. He is one of 300,000 veterans expected to return to Missouri in the next decade, according to University of Missouri Extension state health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch.
Aspen Spas, which has built custom hot tubs and specialized spas for a quarter century, entered the Trade Adju
Ag and bioscience drive economic growth and job creation in the North Central U.S., boosting productivity and innovation.
A chance encounter in 2009 with a Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) presentation inspired Lois Rodriguez to start her own business. In 2006, her family planted a tree farm, their main market being street tree development in Kansas City.
MO PTAC staff continually warn clients of companies that engage in deceptive marketing practices by disguising themselves to look
“Our first quarter sales this year almost exceeded our total sales of last year because of a paradigm shift in how we do business,” said Paul Janicek, owner of DocuLock in St. Joseph, Missouri. Janicek attributes that shift to the open-heart surgery he went through in 2020.
Tameka Stigers grows Black-owned businesses, including Locs of Glory salons, empowering her community through entrepreneurship.
What are bonds and when are they required?
According to the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), a bond is a written document between a bidder or contractor (the principal) and a second party (the surety) to ensure fulfillment of the principal’s obligations to a third party (the obligee or…
Branson Airport partnered with local experts to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, benefiting from various support programs to enhance travel recovery.
Minglewood Brewery adapted to the pandemic with home delivery of craft beer, cocktails, and curbside food in Cape Girardeau.
Affordable care with clear pricing: Innovative Medical Clinic in Jefferson City fills the gap between urgent care and the ER, serving uninsured and underinsured patients.
The challenge
Bruin Manufacturing, an Iowa manufacturer, is a reliable and innovative leader in the plastics injection molding business. Brui
Missouri manufacturers and researchers collaborate through roundtables to enhance innovation, resilience, and growth in the state's manufacturing sector.
COLUMBIA, Mo. —Teacher Teri Walden and physician Becky Llorens met a couple of years ago and bonded over a common concern. Each has an autistic young adult son seeking work.
MISSOURI – On Jan. 27, 2021, the University of Missouri Extension Business Development Program (BDP) recognized members for their performance and accomplishments during the organization’s first virtual professional development conference. The annual celebration awards individuals and teams for…
Developing a business plan is hard work and at times a daunting task for business owners. However, business planning can help move any company or small business forward. "Why write a business plan?" you may ask. There are many reasons why writing a business plan is essential to any owner.
Family‑owned Missouri machine shop crafting precise aerospace parts for Boeing, Lockheed & military, thriving in a rural HUBZone.
Coupons are the most common sales promotional tool used by businesses. Their usage continues to grow each year, as they provide a way for the consumer to save money while offering the retailer a way to grow and retain sales. The coupon has consistently proven to be an effective business tool.
After two years of planning, in April 2006, Erica Skouby said goodbye to her corporate job and started her own quilt shop. In June 2006 Nine Patch Quilt & Fabrics opened to the public, carrying cotton fabric, books, patterns, and handmaid gifts.
Joe and Judy Roetheli, recogniz
Discover how entrepreneurship can revitalize communities, foster economic growth, and create vibrant ecosystems for small towns.
Custom Powder Systems (CPS) designs, builds and automates the equipment used to dispense, size, mill and blend the powders used in the pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries.
When considering target markets for their products and services, many business owners often overlook one with vast potential — local, state and federal governments.
HANNIBAL, Mo. – In her 20s, Linda Studer had a dream of opening a business in historic Hannibal.
Providers of custom automation, tooling and engineering services across industries, strengthened through strategic support to modernize operations.
Elderberry farms expand production and reach new markets with support from a trade assistance program helping small businesses grow.
The Missouri Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) recently brought a new international export business planning platform to small businesses across the state.
Earlier in this series we looked at some of the benefits and basics of exporting. In this article, we will review an important first step, how to determine if there are no export control restrictions on your product or service.
Learn how Express Scale Parts secured $75,000 in federal trade‐assistance funds, matched for $150,000, to upgrade operations and boost sales.
Mueller Industries in St. Louis adapted after losing its founder and main client, creating new products and finding growth through fresh markets.
Farm operators can ease labor shortages with seasonal workers by following best practices for hiring, training, and safety.
EDINA, Mo.– Like any other business, a farm is more likely to succeed with a written business plan.
“A business plan can serve as a road map for your business,” says Karisha Devlin, a University of Missouri Extension agriculture business specialist in Knox County.
HILLSBORO, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension offers a one-day workshop for those thinking about selling produce and other goods at farmers markets.
The Feb. 3 workshop covers food safety, sampling, funding, customer service and opportunities for discussion with other vendors, said MU…
Farmers and ranchers discuss their success with e-commerce, sharing insights on platforms and strategies to expand their businesses in the digital marketplace.
Areté Contracting in Jefferson City shows how courage, vision, and support programs helped a veteran-owned firm pursue growth and excellence.
Seize the opportunity to develop real-time human resource (HR) tools in order to get better results and gain a distinct competitive edge.
After serving in the army for 27 years, Wes Hester wasn’t ready to stop serving his community upon retirement. In 2007, Hester decided to start his own IT Technology engineering firm, Foxhole Technology.
Follow an entrepreneur’s journey from childhood businesses to running Court Street Custom Fulfillment in Fulton, Missouri.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fruit and vegetable growers can learn about produce safety and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification at workshops in early 2018.
GAP certification training will be held Jan. 18 and Feb. 16 in Olathe, Kan., and Jan. 26 in St. Peters, Mo.
Good News Brewing in Defiance, MO, has thrived during the pandemic, seizing growth opportunities with the help of local business support
BROOKFIELD, Mo. – Her portion of the work is a little piece of a big project, but construction business owner Lois Rodriguez is making the most of it. As president and CEO of Better By Design LLC, Rodriguez is doing her part to make the long-awaited East Locust Creek Reservoir a reality.
Are there rules to follow in doing business with the government?
The government spends billions of dollars each year purchasing products and services, some
HILLSBORO, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension will hold a Specialty Crop Block Grant workshop 6-9 pm. Monday, Jan. 29, in Hillsboro.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension invites anyone interested in learning to farm to attend an eight-session program, Grow Your Farm, offered by MU Extension in Jackson County.
Rhonda Hill, owner of H&H Bridge, had never had an interest in construction. However, when her son, Harley, bought a drilling company right out of high school, her support brought them both right in the middle of opportunities for a new career.
Manufacturer of aluminum irrigation pipes, fittings, pumps, fabrications and powder coating faces rising global competition.
Discover professional language services in St. Louis, offering translation and interpretation solutions to improve communication in diverse communities.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri ranks below the national average in many key measures related to health and access to health care, especially in rural parts of the state.
St. Charles IT helped local businesses adapt to remote work, ensuring seamless connectivity and supporting business continuity during challenging times.
Powder Monkey Fireworks in Weldon Spring, MO, offers a vast selection of affordable fireworks to help you celebrate safely and memorably.
JOPLIN, Mo. – Starting a business can be challenging even during a robust economy, yet opportunities still exist in today’s tough economic climate.
While living in West Plains, Missouri in 2012, Mike Hibler noticed a need for a restaurant where he could enjoy good food and watch a sports game. On his way to work every day, he noticed an abandoned building that looked like a log cabin.
As I spend time with friends, I often hear them say, "There is no unique place to go shop these days. They all have the same stuff." To which I reply: "Why do you shop where you do?" This at times leads to an interesting dinner conversation.
Since 1947, a St. Louis hearth products maker grew from a garage operation into a city-block factory, evolving from aluminum chimney caps to steel accessories.
To meet the growing demand for advanced manufacturing expertise, Mizzou Engineering has launched the Industry 4.0 certificate, a hybrid program to equip today’s technical experts with the know-how to thrive and lead in tomorrow’s smart manufacturing environments.
Innovet Electric offers electrical, telecom, and construction services, focusing on veteran hiring, government contracts and fostering strong community ties.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – When Chris Henry wanted to grow his lawn care business, RC Landscape Services, to pursue government jobs in the Kansas City area, he turned to the Missouri APEX Accelerator, a program of University of Missouri Extension.
A Kansas City awning maker doubled revenue, expanded staff, and improved processes with trade-assistance support.
Prock Operations in St. James kept workers employed through relief programs while adapting products and starting a foam recycling effort.
In early 2019, the oldest chain manufacturer in the United States found itself under new leadership. Jim Riley purchased Laclede Chain Manufacturing Company from his father, ready to lead the family business into a new decade of growth.
Lake Recharge & Fire Equipment in Eldon, MO has provided fire and safety systems to businesses and government for over 20 years.
Explore strategies to retain employees, reduce layoffs, and strengthen your workforce during economic challenges.
Joshua Clarkweiss of Full Circle Forest Products transforms felled trees into custom lumber and furniture, promoting sustainability in Rutledge, Missouri.
Women‑owned Kansas City construction and plumbing firm delivering federal, military and commercial projects with HUBZone certification and proven excellence.
Lone Star Physiques in Kirksville, MO, is a personal fitness business highlighting client success stories and rural entrepreneurship.
Learn how Major Custom Cable used trade-adjustment funding to upgrade its systems, improve quality, and add over $1M in revenue.
Courtney Smith grew Webb City Florist with guidance from Missouri SBDC, boosting sales and supporting her local community.
The challenge
McCormick Armstrong Co.
The challenge
Mercury Communications, Inc., a cellular tower manufacturer in Fenton, Mo., has been receiving assistance from the Mid-America Trade Adjustment Assistance Center
Seven afterschool programs across Missouri have been awarded micro-grants to support youth entrepreneurship activities during Global Entrepreneurship Week.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Nearly empty meat aisles are a burden producers, processors and consumers don’t want to face again. To prevent that, the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) awarded $16.7 million to keep 150 meat and poultry processors throughout Missouri going strong.
Missouri SBDC's Elevate program helps second-stage businesses grow, expand markets, and strengthen leadership with expert guidance.
Missouri SBDC's Elevate program helps growing small businesses boost sales, investment, and jobs with expert guidance.
Missouri SBDC receives grant to support businesses in underserved communities with resources for growth and development.
MISSOURI – The Missouri SBDC (Small Business Development Centers) was awarded $125,000 for specialized training, business counseling, and technical assistance for research and development (R&D)-focused small businesses under the Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Many of the world’s finest wines and whiskeys begin in Missouri’s hardwood forests.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension recently released its 2017 Farm Labor Guide.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.
An $86M investment generated nearly $950M in economic impact, reaching millions through programs and resources across Missouri.
Get expert advice on managing the financial impact of COVID-19, including budgeting, debt relief, and financial planning strategies.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded a $179,614 grant to the University of Missouri to support efforts to help veterans, Latinos, women and socially disadvantaged persons to farm or go into agribusiness.
Nanova Inc., founded by MU engineering faculty, secured $7M in funding and built a 6,000-sq-ft manufacturing facility in Columbia, Missouri.
On Dec. 31, 2017, the Department of Defense (DoD) established new cybersecurity regulations for contractors. Contractors must meet these new standards, or risk losing DoD contracts.
In general, contractors must assess their information systems, develop a security plan and create an action plan to…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri’s new Food Processing and Safety Lab helps people who make and sell processed foods ensure they are safe.
Free downloadable guides help small business owners build strategy, create content, choose platforms and drive results through social media.
Helping farm and food entrepreneurs access funding, training, and regional market connections to build stronger local food systems.
Sherry Noller is appointed interim state director of Missouri SBDC, leading business support and training across the state.
Boone Center Inc. grows nonprofit impact and workforce skills through the Elevate program, gaining insights and strategies for success.
The challenge
Omaha Steel, a 112-year old company, is an established name in the steel castings industry. In 2014, new owners took possession of assets, including a state-of the-art production facility. Omaha Steel was operating at 40 percent of capacity, which is reflective of the U.S.
Many business owners agree that government contracting is very different from the other markets that small businesses pursue. Even individuals who have experience with different aspects of contracting find that becoming a federal contractor can be daunting and confusing.