Small Business

How SBEDC Supports Your Business

SBEDC advocates for and educates local entrepreneurs by:

Connecting you with resources through our partnership with REDI (Regional Economic Development Inc.) and other state and regional organizations
Making introductions to the right people—from lenders to technical assistance providers
Providing guidance on navigating local business development
Creating opportunities to network and learn alongside other business owners

When you contact SBEDC, we listen to your needs and help coordinate communication with the right parties—whether that’s the city, county, REDI, landowners, or financing sources—to help you get what you need.

Finding Your Space

Available Office & Retail Space

Southern Boone County offers a variety of commercial spaces for small businesses:

Office spaces perfect for professional services (1-5 employees)
Retail locations in growing areas
Flexible commercial properties

These spaces fill quickly. If you’re looking for the right location, reach out to SBEDC and we’ll help connect you with current availability and property owners.

Need space details?

Contact Brandon Glascock at South County Realty for current listings.

Financing Your Business

Small Business Loans & Micro-Loans

Access to capital shouldn’t hold you back. Business owners in Southern Boone County can tap into SBA-backed loan programs through local lenders, including:

Micro-loans

Up to $50,000 for working capital, equipment, or inventory
Ideal for startups and small expansions

SBA 7(a) & 504 Loans

Support larger investments in equipment, real estate, or business acquisition
Available through SBA-approved lenders in Missouri

Local SBA-Approved Lenders

Callaway Bank (Ashland) – SBA approved
Central Bank (Boone County) – SBA loans
Bank of Missouri – SBA Preferred Lender serving the region

SBEDC works directly with these local banks to make it easier for you to access the capital you need to start or grow your business.

Regional Financing Programs

REDI Revolving Loan Fund

The Mid-MO Regional Planning Commission Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) provides gap financing for businesses that cannot obtain full financing through conventional lending channels. The RLF is available to all borrowers in the six-county region and approved by a seven-member board.

Business Development & Planning Support

Get Expert Help with Your Business Plan

Starting or expanding a business requires solid planning. Free and low-cost assistance is available through:

REDI Business Development Specialist

REDI’s Business Development Specialist provides one-on-one guidance for business planning, market analysis, and growth strategies.

University of Missouri Extension Programs

MU Extension offers business planning resources, workshops, and expert consultation to entrepreneurs throughout the region.

SCORE: St. Louis, Kansas City

Get free mentoring from experienced business professionals. SCORE offers guidance on everything from startup basics to scaling your operations.

Missouri Small Business Development Centers

Missouri’s SBDC network provides free and confidential business consulting, training, and resources across the state.

Networking & Learning Opportunities

Growing your business is easier when you’re connected to other entrepreneurs and community leaders. Here are ways to connect:

➨ SBEDC Annual Leaders Breakfast

SBEDC’s signature annual event brings together business leaders, elected officials, and community members for networking and insights on economic development in Southern Boone County.

Learn more about the Leaders Breakfast

➨ Year-Round Networking

Southern Boone Chamber of Commerce – Monthly networking and business advocacy
REDI Events Calendar – Workshops, seminars, and continuing education opportunities
Ashland Optimist Club – Community service and local business connections

➨ Educational Workshops

SBEDC hosts an annual educational workshop for local entrepreneurs. REDI also offers extensive continuing education resources throughout the year—from marketing to financial management to workforce development.

Ready to Start or Grow Your Business?

We’re here to help you navigate the resources, make the connections, and find the support you need to build a successful business in Southern Boone County.