Best Small Business Resources in the Springfield Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Missouri has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Springfield area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Missouri.
Resources Available in your Area
eFactory
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
Part of the Missouri State University, eFactory has a tech-focused accelerator, conference spaces, coworking spaces, and mentorship network. Once you are accepted, the accelerator will provide $30,000 in initial funding, free workspace, mentorship guidance, etc. in exchange for 8% of the equity in your startup. Basic coworking membership includes perks like free admission to various workshops, network events, as well as consulting services. In addition, every Friday their coworking space is open to the public for free, which is a good place for getting work done, networking or just have a good time. Rosies as part of their mentorship network program is free and open to anyone, with a strong focus on women founders, small business owners, and leaders.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center, 405 N Jefferson Avenue
Springfield, MO 65806
417-837-2600
efactory@missouristate.edu
Missouri State University SBTDC
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Originate
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
Originate offers several types of office space for your business needs. They have conference rooms, a casual meeting area, break rooms, and private suites that allow groups of different sizes to collaborate and meet clients.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Springfield SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth