Connecting farm and rural businesses and neighbors to resources that help our Missouri rural communities thrive.

From deep roots comes new growth.

A young woman holding a little girl, writing on paper.
A man helping his passenger get out of the vehicle.

Transit

Building a network of volunteer drivers and coordinating regional transportation services in west central Missouri.

A woman organizing tubes of paint.

Women's Business Center

Focusing on the power and potential of rural women to employ themselves, provide jobs for others, and build their local economies and communities.

Someone purchasing some fruit.

Food & Agriculture

Helping farmers, food businesses, and community organizations connect and build the working relationships needed to make farm-to-table work.

A photo of a sign in a window that reads, "Yes, we're open"

Financing

Offering microloans to startups and existing rural businesses that are having difficulty finding financing elsewhere, with the goal of graduating to traditional business loans.

Featured News

A selection of featured posts from our news feed.

Harvest to Market Grant Applications Now Open

Harvest to Market Grant Applications Now Open

Application for Harvest to Market grants up to $25,000 are now open through August for small farm and food business funding for local food entrepreneurs from rural Kansas and western Missouri. Submission deadline is by noon on August 31, 2026.
Support for Rural Child Care Programs Coming Soon

Support for Rural Child Care Programs Coming Soon

Running a child care program means balancing care for children with the daily demands of running a business. A new support program from the New Growth Women’s Business Center aims to help rural Missouri child care programs save time, strengthen operations, and connect with practical tools and resources.
Volunteer Driver Helen Crowder Honored at Missouri State Capitol

Volunteer Driver Helen Crowder Honored at Missouri State Capitol

Helen Crowder drove more than 44,000 miles last year helping neighbors get where they needed to go. Congratulated by the Lieutenant Governor and honored at the Missouri State Capitol for her volunteer service, her story shows how a ride makes big difference.