Roundtable highlights opportunities to enhance regional innovation and entrepreneurial capacity
To see growth in the economy, a community must invest in supporting innovators and technology-based entrepreneurs. Working collaboratively is key to improving the network of available services.
The Missouri Technology Corporation awarded the Regional Node Planning grant in November 2023 to the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and its economic development arm, the Springfield Business Development Corporation (SBDC), to work with the Southwest Missouri Council of Governments and regional partners in assessing the region’s technology-based entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Chamber hosted a Regional Node Planning Roundtable on April 19 to share the regional node planning activities since the award and opportunities to close the gaps that were identified.
The event, led by key representatives from the Chamber, efactory at Missouri State University, Codefi and the Southwest Missouri Council of Governments, provided a forum to:
- Assess the current state of southwest Missouri’s technology-based entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Provide an overview of the state’s entrepreneurship and innovation landscape.
- Develop a plan to enhance the region’s innovation and entrepreneurial capacity.
"This roundtable marks the beginning of an exciting next chapter for southwest Missouri as we unite to leverage the opportunities presented by the Regional Node Planning grant," said Chamber President Matt Morrow. "We are thrilled to bring together key stakeholders who share our vision of driving innovation and prosperity in our region."
The Regional Node Planning grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the technological infrastructure, fostering entrepreneurship and promoting economic development throughout southwest Missouri and the Southern Missouri Innovation Network.
"These intentional, strategic collaborative efforts represent a significant investment in the future of our region," said Rachel Anderson, efactory executive director. "By collaborating with regional partners and leveraging each other’s strengths and expertise, we aim to maximize resources and create a thriving ecosystem for innovation and tech-based entrepreneurship throughout southern Missouri."
Attendees at the roundtable discussed key considerations for developing a robust ecosystem that aids businesses but also individuals who seek greater opportunities.
“By providing more focused tech startup programs, training opportunities, and capital in the region, we catalyze the pipeline of job-creating companies in southern Missouri. These companies will create new high-tech occupations that provide excellent pay, benefits, and advancement opportunities in the area, too,” said James Stapleton, President and CEO, Codefi. "It's a win-win-win for the individuals, community and region."