Welcome to the Center for Entrepreneurship
The Center for Entrepreneurship provides training, mentorship and support to small business owners and entrepreneurs in the St. Joseph area and beyond. Whether your business is new, new to the area, or simply testing new business ideas, we can help. Receive one-on-one coaching from our experienced staff members and as well as connections to helpful programs and resources.
Operating a Business
- Filing and Licensing
- Employer’s Guide to Hiring
- Workforce Development
- Managing Finances
- Networking and Resources
Growing a Business
- Strategic Planning
- Integrated Marketing Plan
- Budget and Projections
- Succession Planning
Starting A Business
- Creating a Business Plan
- Securing Financial Support
- Building a Team Approach
Entrepreneurship Week 2021: Capstone Luncheon with Joe Gray and Steve Craig
Two of St. Joseph’s most prominent and successful entrepreneurs shared the stage at the capstone luncheon during Entrepreneurship Week. Craig School of Business benefactor Steve Craig interviewed guest speaker Joe Gray, founder of Gray Manufacturing, who shared stories of his early life and entrepreneurial journey with more than 280 luncheon attendees.
Both men have deep roots in St. Joseph and, between the two of them, have contributed greatly to the region’s growth and entrepreneurial spirit.
“It’s almost impossible to encapsulate Joe’s incredible, almost 99-year life in one interview,” said Craig. “Joe is truly a treasure to not only our community, but to our country as well.”
Community to Classroom Program
As the state-designated applied learning university, Missouri Western is focused on providing hands-on business experience for our students. In this role, the Center for Entrepreneurship connects Griffons with community businesses and organizations to work collaboratively on real-world projects. Within the class curriculum, students engage with business owners on semester-long projects to help them solve a wide range of business challenges including marketing strategy, business plans, market research, web development, social media and digital marketing.
“My student group was very invested in how to improve my business marketing. They gave me valuable insight on the best times to post on social media and how frequently to push content out to our followers. They encouraged me to venture into the TikTok platform, which has already increased business. I would definitely recommend it to other small business owners.” – Trevor Moss, Walkoff Wood Bat Co.
Do you have a business challenge for our students to tackle? We are currently accepting applications from area businesses and organizations for student team projects. Apply now.
Support Services
To date, the Center for Entrepreneurship has provided free consulting services to more than 800 new and existing entrepreneurs.
All services are free and confidential.
Cup of Joe
Cup of Joe is a simple way to engage entrepreneurs in our community.
Every Wednesday morning, two entrepreneurs share their story with a diverse audience of mentors, advisors, and fellow business owners.
Entrepreneurs gain insightful feedback while connecting with a supportive community that cares about their progress.