The Liv Group

Collaboration was the theme of the day as SBEC welcomed the James S. McDonnell Foundation (JSMF) for an immersive learning session on small-business growth. Representatives from St. Louis Small Business Empowerment Center, JSMF, business owners, and corporate partners gathered on February 19 to explore how coordinated capital, customer-acquisition support, and technical assistance impact the success of small- and minority-owned businesses.

JSMF collaborates with SBEC to fund a $1.9 million revolving loan fund to provide working capital to minority entrepreneurs. "For every $25,000 in capital, one new job is created," announced SBEC Executive Director Kevin Wilson

In 2025, 25 minority businesses received funding, and four of those recipients—Under Grace Home Health Agency, Freddie Lee’s Gourmet Sauce, The GEM Factory, and Hudson and Associates, LLC—shared how access to capital has fueled their dreams. Ecosystem partners from Edward Jones US, St. Louis Community Credit Union, and Greater St. Louis, Inc. discussed their roles in connecting businesses with opportunities.

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