An open letter from Keli Morris, NWMEF Business Facilitator, to NWMEF clients and all rural businesses in Northwest Missouri:

As we look forward to closing out one of the most heart wrenching years for business owners, where do you see yourself six to nine months from now? What do you want to be doing? There is no magic ball that will tell us what lies ahead in these next several months, but I would imagine that most business owners wish to see their business still standing and better yet, thriving!

It is important to think to the future so that you can formulate your action steps that will enable you to get there. Making pivotal changes now can mean the difference between survival and having to shut your doors. While many business owners have been creatively making pivotal changes since March 2020, there is still time for those who have not had to adjust your sails. I believe that it is critical for business owners to be framing short term goals, reviewing these goals and making adjustments as you go. Ask yourself, “If I want to see my business survive this pandemic what do I need to do to get my business to the other side?” As an entrepreneur, use your creativity to think outside of the box and plan for your future. Touch base with your employees, your friends, and even your customers for ideas and help. They too, care about your survival and support you in this struggle. You are not alone.

As the facilitator for my organization I have had more than a few conversations with business owners over the last several months on this very topic. I have heard the frustration of business owners and seen them cry and get angry. All these emotions are normal and certainly “ok” right now, but as Robert H. Schuller said, “Tough times never last, but tough people do.” I believe and you must believe that you can weather this storm. And Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation is here to help.

If you are interested in starting or retaining your own business, Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation (NWMEF) can help. NWMEF is an economic development project which serves six counties including Andrew, Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth. Services are offered free and are strictly confidential. NWMEF is a not-for-profit organization. For more information, contact Keli Morris, Facilitator, at 816-262-9400 or facilitator@nwmef.org. The Resource Board is comprised of more than 70 volunteer board members from each county as well as regional representation. All clients receive assistance without regard to race, color, religion, religious affiliation, sex, disability, or national origin. Certain project costs have been underwritten by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Neighborhood Assistance Programs.