- Date published
“In these unprecedented times.”
“Now, more than ever.”
“We’re all in this together.”
With all the sound bites and corporate reassurances it may seem like you’re hearing the same phrase over and over.
We’ve been repeating a phrase of our own over the last few weeks. It’s that even when it feels like everything has changed, our mission remains the same. It has always been our mission to make Springfield, Missouri the best place in the country to start and grow a business.
We know that 80% of new jobs in Missouri are created by startups. Small businesses and entrepreneurs build communities. They make our cities special and propel our economy forward. We’re proud to be working hard to assist them in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Quick Pivot
As the COVID-19 pandemic rocked the world, our team reacted like many business owners and focused on pivoting quickly. While small businesses were innovating and finding new ways to connect with customers, we were doing much of the same.
Overnight consultations moved online, training events became virtual, and we leaned into the partnerships we’ve worked hard to cultivate. We even shared a few words with MOSourceLink about the adjustments we made.
As a result of these moves, our team has done some truly incredible work over the last few weeks. Business consultants with the Missouri Small Business Development Center at Missouri State University have been on the frontline assisting businesses in our region. They’ve helped business owners navigate disaster relief funding, control cash flow, and more.
We know that innovation, small businesses, and startups will be what helps our economy recover from COVID-19. We are proud to do our part in a rapid response to offer assistance.
From March 15 through April 30, 2020, our programs:
- Assisted more than 814 different businesses
- Held more than 259 virtual 1:1 consultations with business owners
- Spent more than 1,122 hours consulting directly with business owners
- Developed, promoted and hosted more than 18 online training events
- Reached more than 580 unique webinar attendees
Teamwork Makes It Possible
None of the work we’ve mentioned would be possible without our strategic partnerships and commitment to collaboration. We believe in the power of working together to serve more entrepreneurs and innovators. We’re proud to be part of IDEA Commons, Missouri State University’s vision for an urban innovation park in Springfield, Missouri.
Community is who we are. Forward is where we’re going.
