Strategic Location. Educated Workforce. Ready to Grow.
Southern Boone County offers the perfect combination: small-town character with access to big-city resources, a highly educated workforce, and a business community on the rise.
Why Choose Southern Boone?
Location Advantage
Ashland is one of the region’s fastest-growing communities along the Highway 63 corridor—your business is 15 minutes from two major employment centers and 2 hours from St. Louis or Kansas City.
Economic Snapshot
Population Growth Ashland +5.4%, Hartsburg +4.3% since 2020
Growth Corridor Ashland is one of the region’s fastest-growing communities along the Highway 63 corridor, with proven infrastructure and an established business ecosystem that supports new companies.
Home Values Ashland median $319K (+7.4% annually), Hartsburg median $427K (+14.4% annually)
Income Well above Missouri averages, with highly educated, professionally employed residents.
Momentum Recent major developments include YMCA expansion (2021), Ranken Technical College opening (2024), Baptist Homes of Ashland phases, and new retail/services (Taco Bell, Club Car Wash).
How SBEDC Helps Your Business
The Southern Boone Economic Development Council exists to make your business location or expansion as smooth as possible. We provide:
- Site Selection Assistance – We’ll help you find the right property and connect you with landowners
- Resource Navigation – Direct access to REDI (Regional Economic Development Inc.) and state/regional programs
- Permitting Support – Guidance through city and county processes
- Business Connections – Introductions to the Southern Boone Chamber of Commerce, local lenders, and service providers
- Expansion Planning – Support for existing businesses looking to grow
Getting Started Is Simple
Contact SBEDC at southernbooneedc@gmail.com. We’ll discuss your needs, connect you with the right resources, and coordinate with city officials, REDI, and property owners to help you find your perfect fit in Southern Boone County.
Available Support & Incentives
Missouri consistently ranks among the top states for business climate.
The Tax Foundation ranked Missouri 13th nationally in its State Business Tax Climate Index, and the state offers some of the most competitive incentive programs in the region—including tax credits, workforce training assistance, and property tax abatements that can significantly reduce your startup and operating costs.
Explore Available Incentives
Available Building Sites
View shovel-ready sites, commercial properties, and development opportunities. Properties fill quickly in Southern Boone—let us help you find the right space.
