Driving Growth for Missouri Businesses

Mid-size businesses — those with 10 to 99 employees — play a crucial role in Missouri’s economy, contributing to approximately 40% of jobs. Yet, these companies often find themselves in a challenging position: too large to qualify for small business support, but not big enough to access extensive resources. That's where Elevate comes in.
Elevate is an innovative initiative designed specifically to support growing businesses in Missouri looking to expand outside of their local markets. Developed through a partnership between the Missouri SBDC and the Edward Lowe Foundation, in collaboration with the Southern Missouri Innovation Network, Elevate aims to bridge the gaps that mid-size businesses often face.

Why Elevate Matters
“Targeting businesses with annual revenues between $1 and $50 million, the Elevate program fills a vital niche in our local economy,” explains Lance Coffman, a business consultant at the Missouri SBDC at Missouri State University’s efactory. Though they represent just 18.6% of all businesses, these growing companies are pivotal for job creation and economic stability.
Many owners of growing businesses face unique challenges, including feeling isolation from peers and struggling to find and access resources. Often, they lack formal training in management and leadership, which can leave them at a disadvantage.

A Comprehensive Solution
Elevate addresses these challenges head-on by providing a robust suite of resources and support. Qualifying businesses can access a dedicated team of experts and a customized consulting program. The program offers targeted assistance in key areas such as marketing, sales, human resources, finance, succession planning and operations. Moreover, Elevate fosters collaboration through peer-to-peer roundtable discussions, allowing CEOs to share insights and tackle challenges together over a six-month period.

The results speak for themselves.
“Participating businesses have reported significant increases in sales, capital investment, and annual revenues,” Coffman states.
By leveraging the expertise of seasoned consultants and encouraging peer collaboration, Elevate equips businesses with the tools necessary to thrive in a competitive landscape.
“This has been an incredible experience that I wish I would have done years ago,” says a recent participant. “Our family business has always operated without much structure and this program has been extremely helpful at opening my eyes to how to better build the company for long term success through utilizing the experiences of others.”

No-Cost Access
Best of all, the Elevate program is available at no cost to businesses, removing financial barriers that can impede growth. Interested businesses can apply at efactory.missouristate.edu/elevate, where they can also schedule consultations and find more information about the program.
As Elevate continues to grow and adapt, its mission remains clear: to empower scaling businesses and drive economic vitality across Missouri. By investing in these companies today, Elevate is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and resilient tomorrow.