Employers across west central Missouri have a new opportunity to address one of the biggest workforce challenges: access to affordable, reliable child care.

Looking for meaningful work you can do from home? Start a home-based child care program with support through New Growth Women’s Business Center—and a $2,500 grant opportunity. Apply for free step-by-step support.

Clinton has a bright new business, and its story begins with a simple idea. With business planning support and a microloan from the New Growth Women’s Business Center, Kami McClendon turned that idea into Sun-Kissed Studios.

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.