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.
New Season. New Ideas. New Opportunities.
April is a season of momentum, fresh ideas, and new opportunities — and there’s no better time to bring your business vision to life!
At the Missouri SBDC hosted at MSSU, that energy is on full display as they prepare for their biggest event of the year: Pitch Palooza 2026. This signature event celebrates innovation, entrepreneurship, and the bold ideas that drive our local business community forward.
Whether you’re in the early stages of developing a concept or ready to take your business to the next level, now is the perfect time to refine your pitch, strengthen your strategy, and take advantage of the resources available to you. Pitch Palooza is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity to gain valuable feedback, build connections, and showcase your vision.
If you’d like assistance applying for the competition, evaluating your business strategy, or identifying opportunities for growth, the SBDC Business Consultants are here to help.
Schedule a consulting appointment, please visit the SBDC website or call their office directly at 417.625.3128.
Quick Business Tip: Prepare for Your Opportunity
With events like Pitch Palooza around the corner, preparation is key. Even if you’re not competing, opportunities to talk about your business can happen when you least expect them: at networking events, community gatherings, meetings, or even casual, everyday conversations.
Make sure you have the following:
- A clear, concise business pitch that explains what you do, who you serve, and why it matters.
- Updated business cards or easy-to-share contact information.
- Confidence in communicating your value and what sets you apart from others in your industry.
- A general understanding of your goals and next steps so you can speak to where your business is headed.
It’s also helpful to practice your pitch out loud so it feels natural and conversational, rather than rehearsed. The more comfortable you are sharing your story, the more impactful it will be.
Taking time to prepare now ensures you’re ready to make a strong, lasting impression whenever the opportunity arises.
Upcoming Events
Pitch Palooza 2026
Thursday, April 16 and Friday, April 17 | Hosted at Missouri Southern State University | Application deadline March 22
Have a business idea or a growing venture that you’re ready to share? Pitch Palooza 2026 is your chance to step forward, gain visibility, and compete for cash prizes, mentorship, and valuable feedback from experienced judges.
Participants can enter in three tracks:
- Collegiate
- Startup
- Scalability
In each category, participants must only register and submit a short pitch video. Finalists will present live at the Plaster School of Business in April. The deadline to submit is Sunday, March 22, 2026.
Don’t wait! Space is limited and time is moving quickly. Take advantage of this opportunity to refine your pitch and showcase your idea. Register here.
Trainings Coming in 2026
Keep an eye on the Missouri SBDC calendar for new and reoccurring trainings, including:
- Starting a Small Business: The First Steps
- Financial Basics
- Entrepreneurship Speaker Series
- Canva Basics
- Government Contracting
- Basics in A.I.
Make sure to check out the Missouri SBDC calendar 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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