Useful Business Links

St. Louis Development Corporation
The St. Louis Development Corporation is a non-profit entity that is dedicated to creating economic development and growth within the City. The S.L.D.C. also controls the City’s Enterprise Zone Commission.

The St. Louis Regional Commerce Growth Association
connects business and civic communities in order to create economic development. The S.T.L.R.C.G.A. serves sixteen counties in the bi-state region.

The Regional Business Council
is composed of 100 CEOs from mid-cap companies in the area. The purpose of the Council is to develop involvement and investment in the region, by improving educational opportunities, supporting diversity issues, and strengthening cultural institutions

Small Business Administration has remained the same since 1953; to “help Americans start, build, and grow businesses.” The S.B.A. is a federal agency that attempts to protect small businesses and strengthen the economy through free competition.

The Department of Economic Development seeks to attract new business and expand on existing business within the State of Missouri. The Department consists of separate divisions that are given the task of bringing added economic, community, workforce, and tourism development.

The City’s Business Assistance Center contains the necessary links and information to start and/or expand a business within the City of St. Louis.

The Board of Aldermen contains links for numerous City services and documentation that may be helpful when doing business within the City.

The Building Division website contains pertinent information about acquiring an occupancy permit; an important part of obtaining a City business license.

The Planning and Urban Design Agency’s website contains useful information regarding zoning, permits, and other City ordinances.

Construction without permit and Demolition without permit 
Please let the Citizens’ Service Bureau know if someone around you is performing construction or demolition without a permit. The C.S.B. will then get in touch with the License Collector’s Office. This is a great way to protect the business interests of those companies that are performing within the law.

The Better Business Bureau for Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois contains helpful data regarding area businesses and any complaints filed against them.

Economic Financing contains information pertaining to the financing of a company. The information here can help lower interest rates and down payments. There are also links to other business-financing options.