By Katherine Proctor
Helping small business owners and entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses locally is the focus of the second annual SGF Business Lab on October 15 at the efactory’s Jay Wasson Idea Loft. This half day workshop-style event helps entrepreneurs turn their idea into reality by providing practical guidance on how to do business with the City and tap into local resources. The event will also help current business owners expand their operation. SGF Business Lab will guide participants through the process of site selection, permitting, legal basics and loan programs offered by the City as well as resources from SBDC on writing a business plan, funding options and legal basics. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free of charge. Lunch will be provided. “This event serves as a launchpad for those wanting to start a business, while helping existing businesses grow and thrive in our community,” said Amanda Ohlensehlen, Director of Workforce & Economic Vitality for the City of Springfield. “We are excited to collaborate with Springfield Business Development Corporation, UniteNews and Score to bring this event to the business community as a way to bolster the local economy,” she added. To register for this event visit, https://bit.ly/sgfbusinesslab
BackgroundThe SGF Business Lab was created to help small business owners and entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses locally and offer a one-stop shop for resources. The inaugural event was held in December 2024.The City of Springfield offers a step-by-step guide on their website to help entrepreneurs launch their business and make the process as seamless as possible. Visit www.springfieldmo.gov/startyourbusiness to find resources on planning, set up, tax requirements, employer requirements, obtaining a business license, securing permits and registrations and getting your business insured and bonded. For more information, contact Communications Coordinator Katherine Proctor at 417-880-6306 or Katherine.proctor@springfieldmo.gov.
