Business Boot Camp Gives Missouri Entrepreneurs a Strong Foundation

Jul 27, 2026

Two men walk in efactory hallway

Missouri entrepreneurs ready to turn a business idea into reality now have a free, expert-guided program to help them do it right the first time. Show-Me Network will host an Early-Stage Business Boot Camp beginning Sept. 28, giving aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs eight sessions of hands-on training.

Developed by the Missouri Small Business Development Center at Missouri State University, part of efactory, the program:

  • Introduces entrepreneurs to a wealth of resources
  • Connects participants to a network of topical experts and early-stage entrepreneurs
  • Provides education on foundational business topics 

Each participant will learn how to access ongoing one-on-one coaching and mentoring and should finish with a growth plan and financial budget. Guest speakers and visiting entrepreneurs share real-world experience across topics that span the full business lifecycle.

“Starting a business can feel overwhelming when you’re doing it alone,” said Nicki Donnelson, director of marketing and communications of Missouri State’s efactory. “This boot camp condenses the knowledge entrepreneurs need into a focused, four-week series, then connects participants to what they need to succeed.”

About the Program
The boot camp series is designed for people exploring whether entrepreneurship is right for them as well as those who have already opened their doors.

 The program, supported by US Bank Foundation, runs Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28 – Oct. 22. This series will be held at Missouri State University’s efactory (405 N. Jefferson Ave.). 

Show-Me Network programming is made possible through funding from the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance program, administered in Missouri through the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The initiative supports startups and small businesses by helping them become investment-ready and better positioned to access available capital programs. 

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