Missouri Women’s Council Services and Programs

Missouri Women’s Council Established in 1985 by the State’s 83 rd General Assembly the mission of the Missouri Women’s Council is to identify and address issues affecting the economic and employment status of women in Missouri. An agency within the Department of Economic Development, the bipartisan council is comprised of 15 members; 11 appointed by the Governor, two Missouri State Senators and two Missouri State Representatives. The Missouri Women’s Council works closely with other agencies and community-based organizations to build awareness, educate and promote opportunities for Missouri’s women. By providing information and resources regarding business, education and career opportunities, the Missouri Women’s Council helps women fulfill their economic and employment goals.

Women Owned Business (WOB) Network A web-based network dedicated to promoting women-owned businesses in Missouri. The WOB Network represents a dynamic and ever-expanding community of female entrepreneurs and business owners committed to supporting each other by networking and transacting business together. Women owned businesses can feature their products and/or services for free. Register online at:

Resource & Referral Assistance The Missouri Women’s Council works closely with state and community organizations that work to connect women in business or women in the workforce to information and resources. The council currently publishes the Women’s Resource Guide that lists key organizations and entities that are pertinent to women in reaching their economic goals. The council is ready to help connect the dots for women wanting to start a business, grow a business, obtain information on state contracting opportunities, search of employment, or obtain additional training. Please call our office for assistance at

Calendar of Events A calendar of events that includes events throughout the State of Missouri that pertain to women in business and women in the workforce. View the calendar of events at

Women’s Edition A publication featuring Missouri women owned businesses, Missouri women in non-traditional careers, resources for women in business and women in the workforce, a listing of upcoming events in Missouri pertaining to women in business and women in the workforce. To sign up to receive our Women’s Edition, please visit

E-Learning Sessions The Missouri Women’s Council offer free e-learning sessions to benefit women in the workforce of women in business. The sessions audio presentations that provide information for Missouri women to reach their economic goals. The free e-learning sessions are located on the Missouri Women’s Council website at

Resource Guide The Missouri Women’s Council publishes a Women’s Resource Guide that serves as an essential resource for Missouri women, those who are establishing a business, seeking educational assistance and opportunities, or those who wish to find more suitable careers. This guide contains various listings, including business organizations, education institutions and women’s organizations. To obtain a copy of the Women’s Resource Guide, please visit the Missouri Women’s Council website ( to download a copy or call the Missouri Women’s Council to receive a DVD/CD version of the guide.

Conferences and Workshops Events are offered at several locations throughout the year covering a variety of topics of interest to Missouri women in business and women in the workforce.

Outstanding Women of Missouri History Exhibit A traveling history exhibit that recognizes Missouri women whose fortitude, persistence, and judgment led them to distinguish themselves in their chosen profession or areas of service. The exhibit honors these individuals by displaying an image of each woman, as well as featuring their accomplishments and their story. The traveling exhibit is available for loan at no charge. Please visit the Missouri Women’s Council website for more information.

Award of Distinction Each year, the Missouri Women’s Council solicits nominations of individuals and/or organizations that have made a significant impact upon women and their families. Many outstanding individuals and organizations have helped shape Missouri and continue to contribute their talents and skills to improve and enhance the quality of life in the State. The Council has established the Award of Distinction to recognize, honor, and celebrate these achievements. Nomination forms are available on the Missouri Women’s Council website.