On Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. families from across the region are invited to gather in El Dorado Springs for the Kids Care Fair—a free, family-friendly event focused on one of the most urgent issues facing our communities: child care.

In rural communities, locally owned restaurants are about more than food. They create gathering places, support families, and keep local dollars circulating close to home. Read how connecting with the New Growth Women’s Business Center has helped owner Holly Miller strengthen her business and deepen her roots in the community.

Today we celebrate the West Central Early Childhood Education Action Plan—seven strategies to strengthen child care in Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties, with five moving into action in early 2026.

When families can’t find childcare, everything else starts to unravel—jobs, businesses, even small-town stability. In Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties, parents, providers, and employers are coming together to change that by building a shared framework for real, local childcare solutions.

Shaunna and Jerry Wood turned their love for vintage charm and community connection into Vinta-lit-ious, a one-of-a-kind store in Camdenton that’s part bookstore, boutique, and gathering place. But to bring the vision to life required a business plan and access to capital.

After five years of dreaming, Tammy Cramer took the leap and opened Blended Blessings, a pineapple whip food trailer bringing a taste of sunshine to Bolivar. With guidance from the New Growth Women’s Business Center, she turned hesitation into confidence—and a sweet idea into a thriving local business.

Opening a business takes more than numbers—see how Nicole found the support through New Growth Women’s Business Center to launch Tolli Accounting in Nevada.

Child care shortages and costs in west central Missouri are holding families, businesses, and communities back—but local leaders are taking action. With research in hand and statewide support, a regional team is working on innovative solutions to expand access to quality, affordable child care.

We’re proud to announce the selection of two exceptional early childhood education champions for the 2025–2026 cohort representing our region—Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties: Amber Hansen and Charlotte Smithson.

When Miranda and her husband launched WEMO Wagyu, they had the cattle and the vision—but needed support to grow the business side. Now, their story is helping shine a national spotlight on the New Growth Women’s Business Center and its impact in rural Missouri.

New Growth is proud to announce a special stop on a national media tour, happening August 12 at noon in El Dorado Springs, Missouri!

Struggling to keep up with social media or online marketing for your rural business or nonprofit? The New Growth Learning Hub offers bite-sized trainings, live support, and a welcoming online community to help you build confidence and get results—on your schedule.