ST. LOUIS, MO – Greater St. Louis, Inc. and the Small Business Empowerment Center (SBEC) are announcing a formal partnership between the two organizations to grow and strengthen the St. Louis region’s small business ecosystem. The agreement builds on the organizations’ existing partnership and unique strengths, leveraging them in tandem while collaborating on shared efforts in marketing, public relations, and business development.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our regional economy, and they deserve an ecosystem that matches their ambition,” said Ron Kitchens, Managing Partner, Greater St. Louis, Inc. “By combining Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s regional reach with the Small Business Empowerment Center’s hands-on support for entrepreneurs, we’re making sure small businesses across the region have the resources they need to open, grow, and scale — creating more and better jobs and a stronger St. Louis economy.”
Established in 2010, the St. Louis SBEC serves as the region’s primary resource for business growth and has been instrumental in launching 1,000+ businesses in the region. The organization offers entrepreneurs access to small business knowledge, established financial relationships, and community connections.
“The Small Business Empowerment Center is so grateful for the collaboration and partnership with Greater St. Louis, Inc.,” said Kevin Wilson, Executive Director, SBEC. “Through this partnership, we have provided many small businesses with access to capital, removed red tape, fostered entrepreneurial growth, and connected growing ventures with opportunities.”
With the new MOU in place, the St. Louis region’s small business community will be able to access bolder resources and opportunities to scale, create jobs, and support regional supply chain needs.
Greater St. Louis, Inc. is signing similar MOUs with other regional partners, reinforcing its collaborative approach to advancing regional growth. This MOU follows signed agreements with GeoSTL and 39 North.
Greater St. Louis, Inc. – We Drive Growth
Greater St. Louis, Inc. forges partnerships that empower growth across the 15-county St. Louis region. We convene and collaborate with business, governmental, and civic leaders to empower economic growth and prosperity in communities across the St. Louis metro area. Together, we act with intention to create a thriving and inclusive St. Louis that attracts and retains investment and talent for generations to come and creates more and better jobs for the region. Learn more about how we are driving growth at GreaterSTLinc.com.
