A Year of New Beginnings.
This past year, we’ve watched our mission come to life in extraordinary ways.
We’re surrounded by bold entrepreneurs, passionate partners, and a university that believes in the power of innovation to change lives. As we look ahead, we’ll keep connecting ideas to action, and people to possibility
Executive Director
Innovate SOMO evolved into something even more powerful: the Show-Me Network, a connected movement of regional and statewide partners and changemakers spanning every corner of Missouri.
Through the network, we’re cultivating innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent, and multiplying economic vitality across Missouri.
Missouri State University’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan recognizes something we’ve believed all along: Innovation, entrepreneurship, and partnerships are essential to how we grow, learn, and serve.
University Economic Development Association Awards of Excellence in the Engaged University category.
Expanded offerings strengthened capacity and delivered lasting value.
Together, these services equip leaders to scale with confidence and chart a future with more freedom and stronger results.
From first idea to long-term legacy, we support entrepreneurs at every stage with the people, resources, and community that move businesses forward.
Austin Smalley is one of many founders who turned possibility into impact in 2025.
Through no-cost business consultations and professional mentorship, we’re providing the tools needed at every stage of business.
The Missouri SBDC at MSU received the U.S.Small Business Administration’s SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award for the Great Plains Region, recognizing its outstanding impact on small business growth and entrepreneurship across Missouri and neighboring states.
From business foundations and leadership development to public safety and on-demand career training, we’re delivering expert-led, experience-driven training with real-world application.
It all adds up to one powerful outcome: talented employees who are ready to think strategically, lead confidently, and create lasting impact.
The Public Safety Training Center collaborated with leadership from the Missouri Department of Public Safety to host an Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training at the Missouri State Capitol Building that would train all local agencies in the Jefferson City region. ALERRT is the gold standard of active shooter training, and we are proud to offer it to sworn law enforcement across the state.
By linking Missouri State University students with real-world work experiences, employers can tap into fresh perspectives while preparing the next generation of leaders.
When Bri Record joined Nightly as an intern, she helped design a creative Great Game of Business® MiniGame™, sparking team engagement, boosting reach, and even inspiring Silver Dollar City to deliver fresh treats in celebration. By semester’s end, Nightly didn’t just complete the challenge, they hired her.
Game-changing support, like business consultations and mentorship, help businesses at every stage — startup, scaling and succession.
The result? A booming Missouri economy fueled by new jobs, sales growth and capital infusions that spark lasting impact.
Corporate partners play a vital role in supporting businesses, fueling innovation, and helping our region succeed. Their investment, insight, and belief in what’s possible move our mission and Missouri forward.
Thanks to our partnership with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, all incubator members now receive a complimentary one-year Chamber membership, which connects them to key networking events, increased business visibility, and talent recruitment tools that support growth and integration into the regional business community.
