- Date published
The week spotlights small businesses, entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurs and small business advocates across Missouri are being recognized this week following a mayoral proclamation celebrating the statewide impact of the Show-Me Network.
At the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Luncheon on May 6, 2026, Jeff Schrag, mayor of Springfield, formally proclaimed May 4-8, 2026, as Show-Me Network Week, aligning it with National Small Business Week.
The proclamation recognizes the Show-Me Network, a statewide initiative led by Missouri State University’s efactory and codefi, for its efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship and expand access to resources across Missouri.
Presented during the luncheon hosted by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the proclamation highlighted the critical role small businesses play in driving economic growth, creating jobs and building vibrant communities.
The Show-Me Network’s collaborative model, which connects community partners, regional leaders and training providers, reduces barriers for entrepreneurs. By leveraging shared resources to expand access to capital and improve financial readiness, the network is ensuring that geography does not limit opportunity.
The proclamation also underscored a broader vision: enabling Missourians to build businesses in the communities they call home while pursuing work they are passionate about.
“Collaboration, not duplication, multiplies opportunity,” the proclamation states, recognizing the partners and entrepreneurs contributing to Missouri’s innovation ecosystem.
Schrag, an entrepreneur himself, urged residents to celebrate and support local entrepreneurs and small-business owners throughout the week, noting their essential role in shaping the city’s future.
The designation of Show-Me Network Week coincides with National Small Business Week, reinforcing Springfield’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic resilience.
This year’s celebration will feature community-hosted celebrations and a social media campaign highlighting innovation and entrepreneurship across Missouri. Show-Me Network Week is made possible by the Missouri Technology Corporation Regional Node Grant program.
This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21031-0104 awarded to the State of Missouri by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.