Missouri Business Basics

Just getting started? Here is a great place to begin!

The guides below are provided by the Missouri Small Business Development Centers. Located in a variety of cities across the state, these Centers can assist you in starting and growing your business.

These documents provide information to business owners in many areas of business planning:

  • The Basics - Provides information on the skills needed to operate a small business and some common reasons small businesses fail.
  • The Business Plan - How to put together a business plan, the written expression of a business idea and projections on markets.
  • Legal Formation - How to Information on selecting the proper business structure with a discussion of legalities and tax consideration.
  • Taxes - How to understand and meet the legal requirements of taxes imposed on businesses in Missouri.
  • Hiring Employees - Overview of what's involved in hiring and paying employees.
  • Financing Your Business - Provides information on how to obtain financial assistance.

Not starting from scratch?

Find information on the pros and cons, from the Small Business Administration, of buying a business or franchise, and how to find a business to buy check out:

A mentor or a support network can be critical to the success of any business.

Select "Management Issues & Training" or "Networking Organizations" in the drop down Category menu.

Local organizations can assist in finding the right location for you business. Or if you need an incubator, Missouri has several sites.

Select "Economic Property Development" or "Office, Incubator Space" from the drop down Category menu.