Purpose Connect is among 40 companies still competing for $1M prize.

Bedpost Books opened in Republic; mobile business Clear Choice Power Wash got its start; and Vixen’s Brew LLC debuted.

Newsmakers in the areas of banking & finance, chambers of commerce and health care.

Cornerstone Fine Jewelry relocated; Springfield’s Harley-Davidson dealership came under new ownership; and the newest 7 Brew Coffee shop in Springfield launched.

Following several years of attending nearby regional spots such as Tulsa, Oklahoma, and northwest Arkansas, the delegation for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Leadership Visit headed to the East Coast this month for a first-time destination.

‘Enterprise-level’ business hard to operate in city, entrepreneur says.

The 229 Project is slated to offer a winning business a physical location, financial support and mentorship.

October opening is expected for Great Dave’s Coffee Co.

U.S. Bank also presents $100,000 in funding to support Ascend program to Downtown Springfield Association and Efactory.

A soft launch for Shabu Hot Pot on the south side is scheduled to start Sept. 17.

The Building a Region publication explores business issues fueling and impeding growth, corporate responsibility and government support needs.

A Monett native’s multiyear goal to launch his hometown’s first brewery is getting so close he can almost taste it.

Moore Water & Air targets December completion for 13,000-square-foot hub on south side.

An event scheduled Sept. 7 marks the official debut of Loomi in downtown Springfield.

Owner says decision was made after failed lease negotiations for Hopedale Plaza space in Ozark.

The Uptown Boutique relocated; Dripz and Dreamz Mo-Lo opened; and Springfield’s second Crumbl Cookies got its start.

An independent panel of judges has selected this year’s class of Most Influential Women. With the addition of this class, 500 women have received this award.

Guest columnist Travis Beazley: "Securing an SBA loan involves understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing a robust business plan."

Guest columnist Stephanie Staggs: "In the competitive world of startups, where resources are often limited, trust becomes a powerful and cost-effective tool."

Guest columnist Kelley K. Self: "With today’s technology, business owners have an arsenal of tools available to help operate, market and measure their business. The financial statements report on the results tell a story. It’s an important – story – one every business owner should want to hear."