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IMPACTING & CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUTURE OF

Minority/Women
Business Enterprises

Our Core Values

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Empowerment Through Opportunity

We are dedicated to creating pathways for Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) to thrive. Through SEED Grants, training workshops, and mentorship programs, we empower entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and achieve their fullest potential.

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Equity and
Inclusion

Our work is rooted in the belief that eliminating race and gender wealth gaps is essential for fostering equitable communities. By championing diverse businesses, we aim to create an inclusive economic landscape that uplifts all.

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Sustainable
Economic Growth

We are committed to fostering generational wealth and social mobility by supporting the development of thriving, competitive businesses that contribute to the economic growth and vitality of Columbia and Mid-Missouri.

IMPACTING & CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUTURE OF

Minority/Women
Business Enterprises

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Our Mission

To create and nurture opportunities that further economic development in support of

Minority/Women Business enterprises in the City of Columbia and Mid-Missouri.

Our Foundation

The Numbers

$145K+

In SEED Grants

Awarded

$250K+

In SEED Grant Funds Raised

62+

M/WBE's Awarded

A SEED Grant

100%

M/WBE's SEED Grant Awardees Report Improved Business Performance 

2024 SEED Grant Awardees

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Spring 2024 SEED Grant Awardee

Candace Hulsizer

Owner of Black Tea Bookstore

Use this space to promote the business, its products or its services. Help people become familiar with the business and its offerings, creating a sense of connection and trust.

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Spring 2024 SEED Grant Awardee

Jill Dudley

Owner of Show-Me Dinosaurs

Use this space to promote the business, its products or its services. Help people become familiar with the business and its offerings, creating a sense of connection and trust.

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Spring 2024 SEED Grant Awardee

Kristen Lux

Owner of For The Love of Systems

Use this space to promote the business, its products or its services. Help people become familiar with the business and its offerings, creating a sense of connection and trust.

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Spring 2024 SEED Grant Awardee

Jayci Gesling

Owner of Tiny Town Play Cafe

Use this space to promote the business, its products or its services. Help people become familiar with the business and its offerings, creating a sense of connection and trust.

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Spring 2024 SEED Grant Awardee

Deborah Hake

Owner of Marriage & Family Counseling Center of Mid-Missouri

Use this space to promote the business, its products or its services. Help people become familiar with the business and its offerings, creating a sense of connection and trust.

M/WBE Business Directory

Coming Soon!

Register Today

Date: February 1, 2025

Time: 11AM-2PM

Location:

Southwell Complex

700 Rangeline St

Columbia, MO 65201

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Our Programs

Business Training & Workshops

We offer business acumen training and entrepreneurial development workshops for existing and emerging Minority/Women Business Enterprises. Workshops are designed to enhance business practices relating to planning, operations, finance and strategic planning.

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Coaching & Mentorship

We offer coaching and mentoring programs to Minority/Women Business Enterprises leaders, equipping them with the skills needed for effective leadership. Our coaches and mentors are proven, seasoned professionals. 

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SEED Grant Application Training

Our SEED Grant Application training is designed to provide valuable insights on effectively presenting your business when applying for our grant. We offer virtual training sessions and personalized 1-on-1 assistance to ensure you have all the support you need. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling application that showcases the strengths of your business and demonstrates why you deserve to receive a SEED Grant. 

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Our Latest News 

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Black Business Expo spotlights dozens of vendors

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Columbia College partners with JAWEDF for Black Business Expo

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Black women are powering business creation.

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