ELEVATIONLAB launched in 2017 to help businesses at all stages with classes and workshops designed for entrepreneurial success. The lab is the training arm of the Missouri Small Business Development Center at UMKC, offering classes and workshops that are targeted for every business stage. Participants can learn everything from the basics of writing a business plan to making financial projections, pitching to investors, winning government contracts, creating social media strategies and more. 

The goal is to help fledgling small businesses take the next step in their evolution – transitioning from a successful startup to a growth-oriented enterprise.

“Navigating the ins and outs of everyday business management can be tricky for a business owner,” said Maria Meyers, executive director of the UMKC Innovation Center. “Having access to education and the ear of a business counselor can help them identify and then jump the hurdles to growth.”

Programs include:

  • Small Business Development Center group classes.
  • Development Center one-on-one business coaching: Missouri Small Business Development Center business coaches provide no-cost coaching to entrepreneurs and small business owners who need assistance launching or growing their small business.
  • ScaleUP! Kansas City: A four-month immersion program providing entrepreneurs with courses and collisions that will connect them with a high caliber network of peers, resources and mentors and change the trajectory of their businesses.
  • Missouri APEX Accelerator (formerly Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Centers): The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, assists businesses — including small, disadvantaged, veteran and women owned firms — to obtain federal, state and local government contracts. Staff help participants identify opportunities and understand the government contracting process.

The lab’s impact is considerable. For fiscal year 2022, 878 clients participating in lab programming achieved:

  • $55.1 million in increased sales
  • $30.5 million in loans and equity
  • 509 new jobs created
  • 47 new businesses launched