Communities
Starting and growing a business isn’t easy. But accessing resources and guidance can be.
Get the assistance you need through no-cost 1:1 business consulting, mentor networks and on-demand programming. We’ve worked closely with leaders in Douglas County to put everything you need to know about getting started in one centralized place.
Check out training designed for businesses in our region.
Expert business consultants with the Missouri SBDC at Missouri State University offer 1:1 business consulting at no cost to business owners. Schedule a quick, 10 minute introductory call to learn how we can help.
Our mentorship program is designed to provide honest and practical feedback based on personal experience, not just business theory. Mentorship meetings are free and open to everyone. All information shared in mentorship meetings is confidential.
Mentorship meetings are 30 minutes in duration and are held virtually.
Experts from Husch Blackwell host office hours focused on legal issues impacting small businesses.
Caleb Hunt focuses on employment and general legal concerns for businesses.
Experts from Husch Blackwell host office hours focused on legal issues impacting small businesses.
Christie Brunty focuses on employment law concerns for businesses.
Experts from Husch Blackwell host office hours focused on legal issues impacting small businesses.
JP Barker focuses on general corporate legal questions every other month.
Managing Director at Higginbotham, Chase Marable, hosts office hours to answer your questions regarding business insurance including employee benefits, workers’ compensation, property, liability, auto, cyber and any other coverage(s) that would be applicable to your operation.
Business Performance Advisor, Delaney Yocum, and Insperity host office hours to answer questions regarding Human Resources, Payroll, Employee Benefits, and People Strategy.
Where do I begin? So often small business owners are overwhelmed with what financial requirements may exist, how to get started with a loan, and how to know what equity is required. Work with the Arvest Commercial Team to simplify the lending process. Glean advice and focus on your company’s financial health during this 30 minute session.
Experts from The Bank of Missouri host office hours focused on business lending and financing. Current and prospective entrepreneurs and business owners are encouraged to meet with our partners from The Bank of Missouri to discuss business lending, loan FAQs, financing options and more.
Experts from Forvis Mazars host office hours focused on accounting and finance. Current and prospective entrepreneurs and business owners are encouraged to meet with our partners at Forvis Mazars to discuss accounting and finance questions impacting your business.
The Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in West Plains, Missouri is part of a larger state and nationwide network of business resource programs, funded in part through the University of Missouri Office of Extension and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Missouri SBDC offices help businesses at every stage and have locations across the state of Missouri.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator is a community of support for entrepreneurs and business owners at all stages in their business development. Their team of professionals, mentors, successful entrepreneurs and board members surround your emerging business with skills, experience and networks to help you start and accelerate towards success. OzSBI supports the business community with low-cost professional office space, free business mentoring, professional development workshops, and microloans of up to $50,000 with competitive rates.
The Douglas County Collector administers Merchant Licenses to appropriate businesses or persons in Douglas County.
The Missouri Department of Revenue administers sales tax licensing. The state office is located in Jefferson City. Their website has a lot of helpful information and their phone number is (573) 751-2836.
Learn more about microlending programs that are available to small businesses in southwest Missouri.
The Missouri SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Missouri SBDC at MSU is a University of Missouri Extension Partner.
The Missouri SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Missouri SBDC at MSU is a University of Missouri Extension Partner.