The Green Hills Regional Planning Commission, in partnership with MO Source Link, has secured a four-year grant from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Program totaling $727,919.
This grant has facilitated the addition of a business services specialist, Rebecca TenHulzen, who began her role in September. The RISE grant specifically targets the counties of Daviess, Grundy, Harrison, Sullivan, and Putnam. However, the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission extends its services beyond these counties to encompass the entire Green Hills area, including Chariton and Carroll counties.
TenHulzen offers a variety of free services to the region’s businesses. These services are tailored to the unique needs of each business, whether they are established entities or startups. Among the support provided, TenHulzen assists with succession planning and offers hands-on support.
One significant area of assistance is helping businesses access capital. For those unable to secure funding through traditional banks, the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission offers a microenterprise loan program with loans available up to $25,000. Applicants must provide a denial letter from a conventional bank to qualify for this program.
TenHulzen is also equipped to aid in the application process and can offer guidance on creating effective business and marketing plans. This includes optimizing social media presence and enhancing website visibility. Furthermore, she facilitates partnerships with marketing firms or consulting companies if additional expertise is required.
Building connections and networking are also critical components of the support offered.
An understanding of available resources is vital, according to TenHulzen. She highlights the partnership with MO Source Link, where businesses can use a resource navigator on the organization’s website to find specific services by zip code or category. MO Source Link operates out of the University of Missouri—Kansas City Innovation Center in Kansas City.
Additionally, TenHulzen is involved in recruitment and training efforts. The local Job Center, part of the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission, supports workforce development needs and is located in its Trenton office.
The planning commission also aids agricultural businesses in adding value to their products and expanding their market presence.
TenHulzen is available at the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission’s Trenton office and the Chillicothe Area Chamber of Commerce. She splits her time between these locations and is available by appointment to meet specific business needs.
For further information, contact Rebecca TenHulzen at 660-240-1951 or via email at [email protected].
