Heartland Food Business Coalition

2025 CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series
2025-02-07 13:30 - 2025-12-05 14:30 (America/Chicago) | MO
Join us for the 2025 CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series, a webinar series dedicated to showcasing the power of collaboration in rural Missouri communities. In 2025, we spotlight successful stories of collaboration that are driving innovation, strengthening connections, and creating lasting impact in our small towns and rural regions.
Attendees will hear real stories with real impact directly from community leaders, organizations, and individuals who have successfully worked together to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. At the end of each webinar, we leave time for Q&A sessions with speakers and peers to exchange ideas and build networks.
Whether you’re an economic development or nonprofit professional, local official, business owner, or simply passionate about rural development, the CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series is your go-to for inspiration, learning, and connection.
No fee to attend.
Contact: Jackie Spainhower, spainhowerj@missouri.edu, 816-752-8662
Sessions are the first Friday of each month at 1:30 pm, starting in February,
(No webinars scheduled in January, July and October.)
February 7, 2025, 1:30 pm – December 5, 2025, 2:30 pm

For registration information: Personal Information – 2025 CEC Monthly Exchange Webinar Series

Manage Your Own Social Media - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-27 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Developing a strategy, creating content, and managing your social media can seem like a daunting undertaking. Paying someone to do all of that can ALSO be challenging or out of budget. Join us to learn budget friendly tips and tricks for being your own social media manager.
Date: Thursday, October 27th 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, October 27th 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.

Start Up and Start Right - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-28 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? This webinar untangles the startup process and guides you through 10 essential steps. We’ll navigate licenses, taxes, business structure, funding, and more with clear explanations and actions to take!
Date: Tuesday, October 28th 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, October 27th 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.

Creating Sales Strategies for YOUR Business - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-29 10:00 - 11:00 | MO
Creating Sales Strategies for YOUR Business

Date: Wednesday, October 29th 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.

*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, October 27th 2025.
“Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.”
The term “Sales” has become one of the most avoided parts of a business, and it’s still by far the most important as it pertains to the longevity of a company. This mini-course will cover concepts of building a pipeline, leveraging proximity to your target market, establishing proper value propositions and best practices conducting meaningful follow-ups with prospects.

Driving Small Business Saturday Traffic: A Marketing Strategy - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-29 11:30 - 12:30 | MO
Get ready to boost foot traffic and online sales this Small Business Saturday through strategic outreach. In this training, we’ll cover how to build effective contact lists, craft compelling email subject lines, and draft a high-impact promotional email together. You’ll also explore direct mail tactics and create a postcard mock-up that grabs attention and drives action. Leave with ready-to-use tools to connect with your audience and increase turnout.
Date: Wednesday, October 29th 2025
Time: 11:30 am -12:30pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, October 27th 2025.
Get ready to boost foot traffic and online sales this Small Business Saturday through strategic outreach. In this training, we’ll cover how to build effective contact lists, craft compelling email subject lines, and draft a high-impact promotional email together. You’ll also explore direct mail tactics and create a postcard mock-up that grabs attention and drives action. Leave with ready-to-use tools to connect with your audience and increase turnout.

Ready. Set. Be Well: Small Business Benefits & Wellness Expo - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-10-30 09:00 - 16:00 | WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 E 29th St. North., Wichita, Kansas, 67220, United States
Ready to invest in your business and your wellbeing? Join us for the second annual Ready. Set. Be Well: Small Business Benefits and Wellness Expo, an event designed to empower small business owners, solopreneurs, and aspiring individuals looking to start a business with tools to grow stronger in both business and wellbeing!
This year, we’re expanding our event with brand-new educational sessions and a live expert panel to give you even more tools and insights to grow stronger in both business and life.
Attendees will also be able to connect directly with local providers offering valuable resources, including:
Healthcare: Direct primary care, concierge medicine, mental health services, insurance brokers
Financial Wellness: Financial planning, retirement account coordination, HR consulting
Wellness: Physical therapy, fitness programs, preventive care
And much more!
Whether you’re well established or just exploring your options, this event is packed with practical support and meaningful connections!
Event Details
Date: Thursday, October 30th, 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
**Note: This is a come-and-go event.
Cost to attend: None
Location: WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 E 29th St. North. Wichita, KS 67220
Registration will close at Noon on October 29th, 2025.
***Food trucks will be on-site from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to purchase lunch.
Please contact trainwithsbdc@wichita.edu with any questions.

Farms and Food Hubs: How to Build a Food as Medicine Program - Free Webinar
2025-11-11 13:00 - 14:00 | MO
Join Local Food Marketplace and several guest speakers for “Farms and Food Hubs: How to Build a Food as Medicine Program.” This free live event is another opportunity for food hubs and local farms to learn more about Food as Medicine programs can and how they can get involved.
When: Tuesday, November 11 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time
We will cover:
**What Food as Medicine programs are and why they represent such a great opportunity for food hubs and farms looking to sell more and expand their community partnerships.
**How to identify and evaluate Food as Medicine programs to see if they make sense for you.
**Best practices for running an effective program, including maintaining good communication with partners and finding sustainable funding sources.
Speakers:
**Brent Ling, National Produce Prescription Collaborative
**Erin Martin, FreshRx Oklahoma
**Alicia Fischweicher, Farmshare Austin
**Stefanie Jaeger, Local Food Marketplace
**More to be announced soon!
Food as Medicine gives people access to healthy food to prevent or cure disease. As interest and support for these programs increases, organizers are rethinking where they source their food, and there is a growing movement toward purchasing local food as much as possible. There is real opportunity for farms and food hubs to get more involved in these efforts.
Topics will include what Food as Medicine programs are, how to identify and evaluate programs to see if they make sense for you, and best practices for running an effective program (including maintaining good communication with partners and finding sustainable funding sources).
Registration is required using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_x_3p86LcSwSVfVeHKi0-5A#/registration

Missouri Farmers Union Annual Meeting
2025-11-13 16:00 - 20:00 | Bradford Research Farm, 4968 S Rangeline Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Missouri Farmers Union Annual Meeting brings farmers together from all over the state of Missouri to meet one another, share a locally sourced meal, and learn more about what is happening in agriculture today. Guest speakers will include Rob Larew, President of National farmers Union and Kevin Fulton, experienced Regenerative Farmers. Check out the schedule and buy your tickets today.
When: Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 4-8pm
Where: Bradford Research Farm
468 South Rangeline Rd
Columbia, MO 65201
Event Schedule:
4-5pm Ask a Farmer
5-6pm Rob Larew President National Farmers Union
6-6:30pm Local Farm Dinner
6:30-7:30pm Keven Fulton Regenerative Farmer
7:30-8pm Q&A
Ticket Info:
$30 for MOFU Members
$70 for non-members
Your ticket includes entry to the meeting, happy hour, and dinner.
Get tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/missouri-farmers-union-annual-meeting-tickets-1769610335149?aff=oddtdtcreator

Commercial Insurance Basics - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-11-17 08:00 - 17:00 | MO
Business Insurance is an important but often misunderstood aspect of operating an enterprise. Join Advisor David Kreller for an overview of insurance and risk management basics including the different types of business insurance a small business may typically utilize, how they work, and factors that may impact pricing.
Date: Tuesday, December 9th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 8th, 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6153&SINGLESTORE=true

QuickBooks Online Training for Beginners - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-02 09:00 - 12:00 | MO
Learn how to use QuickBooks Online software to help manage your company’s finances from anywhere using the cloud. This webinar covers setting up your company account, navigating the user interface, recording common transactions, and running reports to assess your company’s performance. Learn how to set up products and services, customers, vendors, sales tax, and more. Presenter Charnea Bell is a Master Accountant, Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, alumna of Wichita State University, and local business owner.
Date: Tuesday December 2nd 2025 (room request)
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm
Cost: $199.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 1st, 2025
Registration and Info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6150&SINGLESTORE=true

Boosting Profits with High Tunnel Tomatoes: Production & Budgeting Strategies for Growers
2025-12-02 18:00 - 19:30 | MO
Join MU Extension Horticulture and Agribusiness Specialists for a practical, profit-focused webinar designed to help Missouri growers maximize returns from high-tunnel tomato production. High-tunnel tomatoes are a key revenue stream for many small farms—but turning a good crop into great margins requires smart production practices and solid financial management.
This session will equip you with tools and insights to:

Grow healthier, more productive tomato crops in high tunnels
Track input costs and project profits using MU Extension’s budgets
Make informed decisions that improve your bottom line

Topics Covered:

Optimizing High-Tunnel Tomato Production
Fertility Management – Fine-tune nutrient inputs to boost yields
Precision Irrigation – Tools and techniques for automated water delivery
Insect Control – Strategies for managing persistent high-tunnel pests
Disease Prevention – Proactive approaches to reduce disease pressure
Using Crop Budgets to Track Costs & Project Profits
Tomato Price Trends – Wholesale and retail insights for Missouri markets
Budgeting Basics – How to get started and why it matters
Profit Scenarios – Forecasting outcomes based on production decisions
Recordkeeping Tips – Capturing the right data to feed your budget tools

Who Should Attend:

Small farm operators
Beginning and experienced high-tunnel growers
Market gardeners
Anyone looking to improve profitability in high-tunnel tomato production

Cost: $10
Contact: Justin Keay, justin.keay@missouri.edu, 573-324-5464

Learn more & register: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/boosting-profits-with-high-tunnel-tomatoes-production-budgeting-strategies-for-growers

Creating Sales Strategies for YOUR Business - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-03 10:00 - 11:00 | MO
The term “Sales” has become one of the most avoided parts of a business, and it’s still by far the most important as it pertains to the longevity of a company. This mini-course will cover concepts of building a pipeline, leveraging proximity to your target market, establishing proper value propositions and best practices conducting meaningful follow-ups with prospects.
Date: Wednesday, December 3rd 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 1st 2025.
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6270&SINGLESTORE=true

Tax Security Awareness for Small Businesses - Webinar by USDA, IRS, and SBA
2025-12-03 12:00 - 14:00 | MO
Greetings,
Tax scams are on the rise, and small businesses are often prime targets. Cyber criminals use phishing emails, fake tax filings, and identity theft to steal sensitive information that can cost you time, money, and even your reputation. Being aware of these threats helps you:

Protect your business finances
Safeguard employee and client data
Stay compliant with IRS requirements
Respond quickly and effectively

By staying informed, you can strengthen your defenses and ensure your business remains secure during tax season and beyond.
The United States Department of Agriculture, Internal Revenue Service and Small Business Administration have partnered to bring to you a tax webinar entitled “Tax Security Awareness for Small Businesses”. The webinar has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ET. To register for the webinar, please click HERE.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact: Jacqueline.davis-slay@usda.gov.

QuickBooks Online Training for Intermediate Users - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-04 09:00 - 12:00 | MO
Build on the skills learned in the Beginners course and learn how to make the most of this cloud-based accounting software to manage your company’s finances more efficiently. This webinar covers more complex concepts including setting up sales tax, creating estimates, recurring transactions, inventory management, journal entries, and payroll. Also learn how to manage accounts receivable and accounts payable, reconcile accounts, and analyze reports. Presenter Charnea Bell is a Master Accountant, Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, alumna of Wichita State University, and local business owner.
Date: Thursday December 4th 2025 (room request)
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm
Cost: $199.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 1st 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6152&SINGLESTORE=true

Re-evaluating your Social Media Strategy - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-04 13:00 - 14:00 | MO
Is your current strategy working or is there room for improvement? Join us as we discuss evolving your social media strategy as your business gains traction online, how to identify if what you are doing is bringing you success, and tips and tricks on how to “stay up with the times” on social media.
Date: Thursday, December 4th, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 1st, 2025.
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6265&SINGLESTORE=true

IRS Lesson 3: Business Use of Your Home - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Not sure which expenses qualify when using your home for business purposes? In this session, we’ll walk through the IRS requirements for claiming the home office deduction, how to calculate the appropriate business-use percentage, and the different types of allowable expenses. We’ll also cover deduction limits, the best documentation practices, and highlight commonly overlooked deductions on Schedule C that could save you money.
Gain clarity and confidence in maximizing your home office deductions.
Date: Wednesday, December 10th 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 8th 2025.
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6226&SINGLESTORE=true

Goal Setting and Accountability for Small Business Owners - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-11 09:30 - 10:30 | MO
In the 4th Management Series class, learn how to set clear, actionable goals and create systems of accountability that drive small business success. This interactive workshop will equip you with practical tools for turning vision into measurable results, supported by peer sharing and real-world exercises. Goal Setting and Accountability for Small Business Owners is the fourth session in our Management Skills series, designed to help entrepreneurs build stronger, more sustainable businesses.
Date: Thursday, December 11th 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 8th 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6182&SINGLESTORE=true

Your Guide to Instagram - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-11 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Our “Beginner’s Guide to Short Form Videos” explores popular platforms, introduces user-friendly editing apps, and delves into Adobe Rush specifically. We’ll cover creating content with templates, adding captivating sounds and music, and even guide you on watermarking your creations.
Date: Thursday, December 11th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 8th, 2025
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6165&SINGLESTORE=true

Business Ops: Re-Evaluating your AI Strategy - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-16 09:00 - 10:00 | MO
In this hands-on session, we will walk through a Service Design Thinking Blueprint, which you’ll actively complete during the training to reframe and reimagine how AI fits into your business operations. We’ll identify key friction points, assess your current workflows, and explore how AI tools can streamline processes, enhance customer experience, and unlock new growth opportunities.
Date: Tuesday, December 16th, 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 15th, 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6155&SINGLESTORE=true

Start Up and Start Right - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-16 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? This webinar untangles the startup process and guides you through 10 essential steps. We’ll navigate licenses, taxes, business structure, funding, and more with clear explanations and actions to take!
Date: Tuesday, December 16th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 15th, 2025
Please note that all class registrations are final. SBDC is unable to offer refunds or credits, so we encourage careful planning before enrolling.
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6149&SINGLESTORE=true

Find Your Market: Defining and Reaching Your Ideal Audience - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-17 11:30 - 12:30 | MO
Marketing only works if it’s aimed at the right people. This one-hour class will help you get clarity on your best customers and reach them more effectively. You’ll walk away able to:
-Use data and simple tools to identify who your best customers really are
-Segment and target audiences for stronger return on every dollar spent
-Match your message and channels to the people most likely to buy
-Build a repeatable process for refining your audience as your business grows
This session is for business owners who want to stop wasting time and money and start connecting with the customers that matter most
Date: Wednesday, December 17th, 2025
Time: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Cost: $5.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 15th, 2025
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6189&SINGLESTORE=true

Succession Planning 101 - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-12-18 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
The goal of succession planning is to have contingency plans to ensure that your business continues to grow despite inevitable market disruptions and personnel changes. Succession planning also encompasses your Exit Plan to sell your business for the highest value possible. This webinar will cover how and when to start a succession plan, preparing for the process, the key components of business valuation, and proven strategies to implement.
Date: Thursday, December 18th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: None
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on Monday, December 15th, 2025
Registration and info: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=6179&SINGLESTORE=true

Online Master Gardener Training – Become a Master Gardener and join a regional chapter to volunteer in your community
2026-01-02 00:00 - 2026-04-27 00:00 | MO
The Extension Master Gardener program was established in Missouri in 1983 and provides in-depth horticultural training for Missourians who wish to share their knowledge of gardening. The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener program is to support MU Extension by providing trained volunteers to assist in public horticulture education.
This course prepares Extension Master Gardeners in topics related to soils, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental woody plants, herbaceous plants, plant propagation, disease and insect control, lawn care, residential landscape, environmental stewardship, and safe use of pest management strategies. Extension Master Gardener volunteers assist MU Extension by utilizing unbiased research-based information to educate, answer frequently asked gardening questions, teach through demonstration gardens, donate produce, present as speakers’ bureaus, and share information. To become trained as an Extension Master Gardener, an individual must attend core training and provide 30 hours of volunteer service back to their community.
For additional class and program information or to register: Missouri Master Gardener Online Core Training – Spring 2026 | MU Extension

Great Plains Growers Conference: Connect. Learn. Grow.
2026-01-08 08:00 - 2026-01-10 17:00 | MO
January 8, 9, 10th | Missouri Western University, St. Joseph, MO.
Welcome and Keynote Address, featuring
CURTIS MILLSAP ~ Owner/ Operator, Millsap Farms | Springfield, MO
CONFERENCE TRACKS : January 9th & 10th

Business Development/Marketing
Tree Fruits
Small Fruits
Vegetable Production
Cut-flower production
Ag Machinery and Technology
Integrated Pest Management
Organic/Regenerative Agriculture
Protected Culture (Tunnels)
North-Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Farmer Forum

To register and obtain more information, please visit their website: GREAT PLAINS GROWERS CONFERENCE – 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference
GPGC c/o Buchanan County Extension ~ 4125 Mitchell Ave. ~ St. Joseph, MO 64507 ~ 816-279-1691 ~ Buchananco@missouri.edu

IN SPANISH - Get Ready for Tax Season 2025: Small Business Workshop - Online, Free
2026-01-14 18:00 - 2026-01-21 20:00 | MO
January 14, 2026 – January 21, 2026, 6pm – 8pm

Lending

Sesión: ¿Tienes un negocio pequeño o trabajas por tu cuenta? Comienza el año con claridad y prepara tus finanzas antes de la temporada de impuestos.
Durante este curso en español, aprenderás de manera sencilla y práctica cómo organizar tus números, entender tus responsabilidades fiscales y evitar errores comunes que pueden costarte dinero.
Temas que abordaremos:

Diferencia entre impuestos personales y de negocio
Cómo declarar correctamente si eres contratista independiente o dueño de LLC
Qué cambios fiscales aplican para 2025
Cómo clasificar empleados vs. subcontratistas
La importancia de tener cuentas bancarias separadas
Actualización sobre los formularios 1099-NEC y su nuevo umbral
Beneficios y obligaciones bajo la Ley de Familias y Lugares de Trabajo Saludables de Nebraska
Consejos prácticos para preparar tus documentos y deducciones

Costo: Gratis
Cuando: Miércoles 14 de enero y miércoles 21 de enero de 2026 de 6 a 8 p.m.
Dónde: En línea
Es necesario registrarse para recibir la información de Zoom. Haga clic aquí para registrarse.
Preguntas: Contacte a Jessica Campos en jessicac@cfra.org o 402.870.1521
Patrocinado por: Center for Rural Affairs
Financiado en parte a través de un acuerdo de cooperación con la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios de EE. UU. El Center for Rural Affairs y todos los programas financiados por la SBA se extienden al público de manera no discriminatoria. Se realizarán adaptaciones razonables para personas con discapacidades y/o personas con dominio limitado del inglés (LEP) si se solicitan con anticipación. Tanto el Center for Rural Affairs como la Administración de Pequeñas Empresas de EE. UU. son proveedores y empleadores que ofrecen igualdad de oportunidades.

For more information: Prepárate para la Temporada de Impuestos 2025 Taller para Negocios Pequeños – en línea | Center for Rural Affairs – Building a Better Rural Future

High Tunnel Production Webinar Series: MU Extension’s Guide to Growing Specialty Crops in Tunnels for High Yields & Low Risks
2026-01-20 18:30 - 2026-04-14 20:00 | MO
Location: virtual on Zoom
Time: Tuesdays January 20th-April 14th, 6:30-8:00pm
Join University of Missouri Extension and partner institutions for a practical 12-session webinar series on growing specialty crops in high, low, and caterpillar tunnels. Learn directly from Extension specialists and researchers as they cover tunnel construction, irrigation and fertility management, pest and disease control, specialty crop production, and economics. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your tunnel production year-round, this series offers trusted, research-based guidance to help your farm thrive.
Live attendance is encouraged, but all sessions will also be recorded.
Series will be followed by in-person field days offered across the state in late spring and early summer. Locations and dates TBD.
Cost: $96-140
This course is offered with a tiered pricing model to provide greater access for all community members. To determine your course enrollment fee please review the Sliding Scale Table (https://i.emlfiles4.com/cmpdoc/9/4/0/0/9/1/files/27861_sliding-scale-fee-2026-tunnel-to-table-1.pdf) select a promo code based off of your annual household income. Use this promo code at the end of Registration to reduce your course fee.

We also offer a limited number of scholarships for those who are experiencing underemployment or similar financial challenges. If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out the Scholarship Interest Form. Scholarships are generously offered by the Missouri SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education) Program.

Food is Medicine Webinar
2026-01-21 12:00 - 14:00 | MO
The United States Department of Agriculture and Small Business Administration is collaborating with Cox Consulting to bring to you a webinar to discuss creative market expansion based on successful models across the southeast. The webinar will focus on healthcare systems and building resilient food systems for local economic development, and regional rural prosperity.
The “Food is Medicine”, theme is broadly recognized in its importance and the impact that dietary and food patterns play in combatting many health challenges, preventing diseases, and treating medical conditions. We will elaborate on partnerships and opportunities between the healthcare and agricultural industries.
The webinar is scheduled on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET. (Noon to 2pm CST). Please click HERE to register.

Homegrown Prosperity Educational Sessions
2026-04-20 12:00 - 13:00 | MO
Homegrown Prosperity is a new initiative focused on expanding cooperative development across rural Kansas and Missouri. Through cooperative education, readiness assessments, and targeted technical assistance, the program will support community groups interested in exploring cooperative solutions that strengthen local economies and expand community ownership.
Virtual Learning Session
April 20, 12:00-1:00 p.m. (CST)
Join us online for an introduction to the cooperative business model, examples of successful rural cooperatives, and an overview of how Homegrown Prosperity can support communities interested in cooperative development.
Registration: Meeting Registration – Zoom

Pathways to Market: Business Development & Buyer Readiness
2026-04-22 12:00 - 14:00 | MO
The United Stated Department of Agriculture, Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Center, and Apex Accelerator have partnered to equip agricultural enterprises and other small businesses with the tools, resources, and knowledge required to navigate the product to market journey. Participants will obtain best practices an enhance their understanding of how to convert innovative ideas to buyer ready products.
Join us for this virtual webinar to hear from business and economic development experts about how to prepare your enterprises and get your products to Federal markets using artificial intelligence and other related/necessary skills.
The webinar has been scheduled for April 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST. Please share with other enterprises and businesses.
To register, please click HERE.

Wed, Apr 22

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM CDT

Online event

Applied Food Safety Microbiology Training April 28-29, 2026 (Columbia, MO)
2026-04-28 08:30 - 2026-04-29 17:00 | University of Missouri, Eckles Hall, 1400 Rollins Street, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
If you are interested in building both foundational understanding and practical skills in microbial control during food processing, this training is an excellent opportunity. Effective microbial control programs are essential for managing spoilage organisms as well as toxigenic and pathogenic microorganisms across a wide range of raw and finished food products. Increasingly, regulatory agencies such as the FDA and USDA, along with third-party auditors and customer requirements, expect food processors to implement comprehensive and science-based microbial control systems that proactively address food safety risks.
This course is designed to help food processors stay current with emerging microbiological food safety concerns and equip them with the knowledge needed to design, implement, and maintain effective control programs. Participants will gain practical insights into environmental monitoring, sanitation practices, and preventive control strategies that support safe food production.
This free training, sponsored by the USDA through the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA), is especially beneficial for small and medium-scale food processors.
Target audience: small and medium-scale food processors, quality assurance and quality control personnel, line supervisors, operators, sanitation supervisors, quality managers, farmers doing businesses in farmer’s market, canning professionals, managers and food science undergraduate & graduate students.
Duration: 1.5 days
Venue: Eckles Hall, 1406, E Rollins St., Columbia, MO.
Time: April 28 (8:30 am to 5:00 pm), and April 29 (8:30 am to 12:30 pm)
Registration cost: Free
Courtesy: USDA through Missouri Department of Agriculture
Sign Up Here: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/applied-food-safety-microbiology-training-april-28-29-2026-columbia-mo
For more information, contact: Kantha Channaiah (lchannaiah@missouri.edu) 573-882-2673
