In this month’s newsletter, we’re excited to share key development updates from Clever and Ozark. We also provide information on Missouri One Start's Credential Training Program and highlight the IARA tax credits available for hiring interns or apprentices. Additionally, don't miss the upcoming SCORE webinars on funding options, crafting a sales message, and mastering Shopify. We'd also like to welcome the Ozark Chamber of Commerce as a new investor into Show Me Christian County.

In addition to our ongoing project list, which includes site development, business attraction, redevelopment, and expansion efforts, Show Me Christian County (SMCC) remains actively involved in a variety of development initiatives across the county. We’re especially excited to celebrate the recent ribbon cutting of Signarama, a business we helped attract to Christian County, showcasing our commitment to business growth in the region. You can read more about it in this Springfield Business Journal article. Additionally, the Clever R-V School District’s expansion project is moving forward, with bids opening this month—view the bid details here.

We are excited to welcome the Ozark Chamber of Commerce as a new investor in Show Me Christian County!

The work of economic development relies on diverse partnerships across sectors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our investors for their dedication to economic growth in Christian County and Southwest Missouri.

Missouri One Start, the workforce division of the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED), is now accepting applications for the Credential Training Program through October 31. This competitive grant helps employers offset the cost of employee credentialing, with funding limits of up to $2,000 per employee and $30,000 per company per fiscal year.

Applications are open for one month each quarter—January, April, July, and October. For more details and to apply, visit the Credential Training Program webpage.

Reminder: IARA Application Period Has Started!

Application Periods:

• Preliminary: Now Through - November 15, 2024
• Full: January 1 - February 15, 2025

IARA Program: State tax credits for hiring interns or apprentices.

Funding Limits:

• $1,500 per intern/apprentice
• $9,000 max per company annually
• $1 million program cap per year

Eligibility:

• Interns: 60 hours/month for 2 months, enrolled in a Missouri institution, 30+ credit hours
• Apprentices: U.S. Department of Labor program, 144 hours of instruction, 2,000 hours of training

For further information on qualifications and application details, click here.

Choosing the right location is key to your business’s success. Christian County, centrally located in the region, provides excellent highway and air access, making it a prime spot for your operations. Below is a curated list of available properties and buildings in the area. While we strive to keep our listings updated, we encourage you to share any additional available properties—contact us to keep our database accurate.

Show Me Christian County is committed to offering a comprehensive resource for viewing available sites, with direct links to original listings.

SCORE offers free expert mentoring and resources to help small businesses succeed, providing valuable guidance in areas like planning, marketing, and finance. They are an essential resource for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Learn more about the Southwest Missouri branch and how they can help here.

Loans, Grants and Other Funding Options for Women-Owned Businesses

October 8, 2024, 1:00pm EDT

In this webinar, you'll learn about the different loans, grants and other funding options available to women entrepreneurs. Register here.

How to Craft a Compelling Sales Message for Your Business

October 22, 2024, 1:00pm EDT

In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you how to craft a clear, persuasive sales message that excites prospects to speak. Register here.

Mastering Shopify for Small Business Owners

October 24, 2024, 1:00pm EDT

In this webinar, our expert presenter will walk you through the fundamental steps to properly set up your Shopify store. Register here.

Join us for "Thankful Tuesday Happy Hour" on November 5th from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at 14 Mill Market in Nixa! Celebrate another year of Show Me Christian County with custom cocktails, snacks, and great company. Thank you to our investors and community partners for your continued support!

SMCC Board Meeting

The next board meeting will take place at 10:00am on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at Nixa City Hall. This is an investor-only meeting.

Be sure to mark your calendars. We look forward to seeing you there!

Buckle up for an eventful 2026! With Route 66's centennial, the US Semiquincentennial, and the World Cup, our community will shine. Expect a tourism surge, with bustling activity along the historic route and in nearby hotspots. Let's prepare now to make the most of these opportunities. Learn more.

Think you know your economic development? Put your knowledge to the test with our fun, Jeopardy-themed trivia! It's a quick and engaging way to challenge yourself and maybe even learn something new.

A local economy gets stronger when people do this at shops or businesses in their town.