Join the Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) hosted at Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) as they celebrate entrepreneurship and continue to foster and support the vibrant business community of our area.
Whether you’re looking to expand your skillset, or simply to connect with fellow professionals, the Missouri SBDC has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to learn, network, and thrive.
Thanksgiving Office Hours
Please note that the Missouri SBDC office at MSSU will be closed from Wednesday, November 26 to Friday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving.
Upcoming Events
Tools to Be Thankful For: An Introduction to AI
Friday, November 14 | 7:45 am | Hosted at the Ambulance District Building (1100 Cherry Street, Lamar, MO 64759) | Presented in partnership with the Barton County Chamber of Commerce
The Missouri SBDC at MSSU, in collaboration with the Barton County Chamber of Commerce, invites the business community to join them in Lamar, Missouri, for this engaging and practical workshop.
Artificial Intelligence doesn’t have to be intimidating; it can actually be one of the most powerful (and practical) tools your small business uses every day. This quarterly workshop is designed to cut through the noise and show you how AI can help streamline operations, save time, and reduce costs with no tech background required!
In this interactive session, attendees will learn:
- What AI really is (without all the buzzwords or hype)
- Everyday AI tools that businesses are already using
- How AI can boost productivity and efficiency in your day-to-day work
- Real-life examples of small businesses using AI successfully
- Common fears and myths about AI debunked
- Simple, no-code tools you can start using today
- How to “talk” to AI effectively for better results
Attendees will also see a live demonstration of AI in action with instructions on how to:
- Write effective prompts for emails, marketing, or customer replies
- Create AI-generated graphics and content
- Apply AI tools to your own business challenges
Whether you’re curious about where to start or looking to level up your current tools, this workshop will give you the practical, hands-on strategies to help you business grow with confidence in the age of AI.
Learn more and RSVP here.
Don’t Miss Part Three of the Government Contracting Series: Marketing to Government + Solicitations
Tuesday, November 18 | 8:30 am | Virtual event | Presented by Allen Waldo
This series of trainings is presented by Allen Waldo, who has worked with the Missouri APEX/PTAC since 2014. He offers counseling in government contracting for mainly small businesses. He can assist your small business in registering to do business with the federal government and the State of Missouri. He also offers expertise in assisting businesses in applying for various socio-economic certifications.
In this course, attendees will learn about the basic sites to both search for procurement opportunities and past performance by other sellers, as well as the best practices for marketing your company to government buyers.
Register here.
Fall 2025 Entrepreneurship Series: Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Journey with Jordan CPA Services
Wednesday, November 19 | 10:00 to 11:00 am | Cornell Auditorium, Plaster School of Business, MSSU | No cost to attend
This event brings together visionaries, innovators, and industry leaders from diverse backgrounds to share their journeys, insights, and expertise with a vibrant community of students, faculty, community members, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner, an aspiring startup founder, or simply curious about the world of entrepreneurship, this Speaker Series offers something for everyone.
Andrew Jordan is a CPA and co-owner of Jordan CPA Services, where he specializes in tax planning, bookkeeping, and fractional CFO services for growing businesses. He regularly speaks on topics like tax strategy, corporate governance, and the role of AI in accounting.
Andrew was named one of Joplin Business Journal’s 15 Under 40 and is a graduate of the AICPA Leadership Academy. Outside of work, he’s a proud husband to Sarah and dad to three wonderful kids — Evelyn, Theo, and Lillian — who inspire and energize him every day.
Emma Ball is the Chief Operations Officer at Jordan CPA Services and a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Joplin Business Journal. With a background that spans both corporate and small business roles, she leads with creativity, clarity, and a heart for people.
She’s the founder of the Hip Handmade Market, a beloved local craft fair, and speaks regularly on topics like small business taxes, project management, and personal growth. Emma is also a proud mom to Douglas and Isabella, a role that grounds and inspires everything she does.
Find out more and register here.
Looking for something different?
The Missouri SBDC values your input and wants to tailor their training efforts to your needs! If there’s a specific topic that you’re eager to learn about or an area where you would like to sharpen your skills, don’t hesitate to reach out and share your ideas.
To share your ideas with your local Missouri SBDC, click here.
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