HERMANN, Mo. — How can small towns and rural areas promote entrepreneurship to drive economic growth and revitalize their communities?

University of Missouri Extension and partners in the Hermann area will explore that question at the 2022 Creating Entrepreneurial Communities Conference(opens in new window), Sept. 21-22, in Hermann.

The two-day conference is open to anyone interested in learning more about developing thriving communities that support entrepreneurs, said Lisa Doster, conference chair and MU Extension county engagement specialist in community economic development.

“CEC is a unique conference that adds elements not found in traditional conferences,” Doster said. “This conference is held in shops and businesses throughout the town, which puts attendees at the ground level of entrepreneurial communities.”

Hermann Area Chamber of Commerce director Melissa Lensing adds, “Hermann has a great story to tell about dreams, hard work, persistence and dedication, or as we say today, entrepreneurism.” After she attended the 2021 CEC conference in Hannibal, Lensing said, “I knew Hermann would make a great location. This conference brings together entrepreneurs, resources, community ideas and the inside look at a small business that you won’t get at any other conference. This conference is a ‘win-win’ for the host community and for the attendee. We can’t wait to meet you in Hermann.”

The conference will gather members of the local business community, public officials, economic developers and community leaders to better understand entrepreneurship, network with like-minded people and collect resources participants can share in their own communities, Doster said.

Learn more about MU Extension’s CEC program at muext.us/CEC(opens in new window).

Join the CEC mailing list to receive updates about the conference at muext.us/CECupdates(opens in new window).

For more information, contact Lisa Doster at 660-465-7255 or lgdoster@missouri.edu(opens in new window).