STL Partnership Celebrates Economic Development Week
Dedication to a thriving business population in St. Louis
As we celebrate Economic Development Week (May 12-16), St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (STL Partnership) continues to help drive the St. Louis region’s economic success. It is guided by a mission to attract, retain, and grow business. It does so through collaborating with public and private partners on regional projects, as well as serving both St. Louis City and County. STL Partnership touches every corner of the business community, from startups to established corporations, ensuring that St. Louis thrives as a hub for innovation, equity, and opportunity. Overall, it pushes for regional prosperity through its many divisions and outreach programs.
One such program is the Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program. BRE bridges the gap between local companies and government entities. The team helps businesses overcome challenges and seize opportunities by fostering open communication and relationship building. The BRE team plays a critical role in retaining businesses and helping them grow and succeed in St. Louis.
The Business Finance division offers a variety of lending solutions that can meet businesses at every stage. Whether it’s through the SBA 504 loan program, specialty loans, or bond financing, the team works together with business owners to provide the capital they need to finance their business.
Another division that focuses on business growth is the Business Development team. Innovation and entrepreneurship prosper through STL Partnership’s four business incubators. Each incubator offers below-market office and warehouse space, mentoring and support and networking opportunities. They serve as launchpads for the next generation of St. Louis entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs can also receive support through the Missouri SBDC program. This provides counseling and training for aspiring small business owners, along with one-on-one consulting and tailored workshops. Business counselor Colleen Mulvihill leads this program at STL Partnership and points entrepreneurs towards success with her 25+ years of experience. Through programs like SBDC and business incubators, the business development team ensures every business has the opportunity to flourish in St. Louis.
The St. Louis Mosaic Project is a regional initiative within the World Trade Center St. Louis and STL Partnership. It is dedicated to maintaining St. Louis as the fastest-growing major U.S. metro for immigration by 2030. It promotes inclusion, supports global talent, and highlights the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, top schools, and rich cultural and economic opportunities. Through many programs, foreign-born entrepreneurs and families can find careers, growth their networks and connect socially.
Lastly, the Community Investment team helps secure sustainable economic growth across the St. Louis region, while remaining deeply rooted in equity. This team works with municipalities, businesses, neighborhoods and community members in underserved areas and connects them with resources that encourage development. The community investment team supports redevelopment efforts, environmental assessments, and uplifts entire communities.
During economic development week, STL Partnership proudly highlights the collaborative and inclusive work of each of its divisions. Through each program, STL Partnership is focused on building a more vibrant, equitable, and resilient St. Louis. This week is a time to celebrate collective impact and economic development in the St. Louis region.