The Early-Stage Business Boot Camp, designed with aspiring entrepreneurs and new small business owners in mind, is launching its newest cohort in Ava, Missouri, in spring 2025.
Registration for this free workshop series is now open, and the program will run April 14 through May 8, 2025, at The Boardroom (305 E. Washington Ave., Ava, MO).
“This program is so impactful to our participants as they navigate how to start and grow their business,” said Sandra Smart, business consultant and technology and commercialization specialist at efactory’s Missouri SBDC at MSU.
It’s the mission of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO), Missouri State University’sefactory partnership with Codefi, to open up pathways for greater earning potential and invigorate the statewide economy. These boot camps are one essential piece to making that happen.
Participants will:
- Join a peer network of small business owners.
- Learn from successful entrepreneurs and guest speakers.
- Discover resources that they’ll need to start and grow a business.
- Find best practices for business planning.
This cohort is being offered in partnership with the Ava Area Chamber of Commerce.
Building foundation
In the program, participants learn foundational knowledge and skills about starting and growing a business, including topics like:
- Market research and analysis.
- Protecting your business and intellectual property.
- Financial management and projections.
- Marketing channels and reaching customer segments.
- Building, compensating and managing your team.
- Accessing capital.
“What sets the program apart from others is that we don’t just talk about these things, we connect participants with local resources and encourage them to work through their business plans and financial projections during the sessions,” Smart said.
Thanks to grant funding through the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO), the Early-Stage Business Boot Camp is offered throughout the state – all at no cost to participants.
*Photo credit to Ava Chamber of Commerce*