Top Six Small Business Incentives in Missouri for 2026 You Should Know
Are you a small business owner in Missouri looking to grow, innovate, or invest in your future? Understanding small business incentives in Missouri can open doors to funding and resources that make a real difference. From federal grants to state programs and local opportunities in St. Charles County and beyond, 2026 is shaping up to be a promising year for entrepreneurs ready to take the next step.
At 1st Advantage Bank in St. Peters, we’re committed to helping local businesses succeed, including guiding you toward the best grants and incentives available to fuel your growth. Here’s a roundup of the top six programs to watch in 2026.
- Missouri Small Business Development Grants
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) regularly offers grants aimed at supporting startups and established businesses alike. These grants – which are too often overlooked – tend to focus on innovation, technology adoption, and workforce training, all critical areas for local businesses in St. Charles and across Missouri.
- Federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
The SBIR program – also known as “America’s seed fund” and powered by the Small Business Administration – is a nationwide initiative that offers competitive funding to small businesses developing new technologies. Missouri companies with innovative projects can apply for phase-based grants that support research, development, and commercialization.
- Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) Incentives
MTC offers a range of funding options including grants, loans, and tax credits designed to boost tech-driven companies in the state. Their programs prioritize companies that demonstrate potential for job creation and economic impact — key factors for Missouri’s growing tech ecosystem.
- Local St. Charles Economic Development Incentives
If your business is based in St. Charles, you may qualify for specific local incentives aimed at revitalizing the community and encouraging business growth. These can include property tax abatements, workforce training grants, and support for expansion projects.
- Missouri Works: A Powerful Incentive for Business Growth
The Missouri Works program is one of the state’s most impactful tools for supporting business expansion, especially for companies creating jobs or investing in infrastructure. Designed to help businesses grow and stay competitive, Missouri Works offers tax credits and payroll withholding benefits for eligible companies that are adding jobs or making capital investments.
For growing businesses in St. Charles County and across the state, this program can significantly reduce upfront costs associated with expansion.
Qualifying companies must meet minimum job creation and wage thresholds and commit to staying in Missouri for the duration of the benefit period. The program also works hand-in-hand with workforce training initiatives through Missouri One Start, helping employers find and train the right people.
- The Qualified Research Expense (QRE) Tax Credit Program.
For innovative businesses in St. Peters and the surrounding St. Charles County area, the QRE Tax Credit Program offers a strategic opportunity to offset Research and Development costs. This Missouri state incentive provides a tax credit equal to 15% of additional qualified research expenses, and up to 20% if conducted in collaboration with a Missouri college or university.
Companies can claim up to $300,000 in credits annually, with dedicated funding set aside for minority- and women-owned businesses. Whether you’re developing new products, improving processes, or investing in technology, this program can significantly reduce your tax burden while supporting long-term growth. It’s one more way Missouri, and local banks like 1st Advantage, support a thriving innovation ecosystem.
How to Make the Most of Small Business Incentives in Missouri
Navigating these programs can feel overwhelming. This often leads to small business owners deciding not to apply for these incentives. Each grant or incentive has specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and reporting requirements. It’s important, though, not to be intimidated and to seek the right support. That’s why partnering with a trusted local resource matters.
Ready to Grow Your Business?
Explore the world of small business incentives in Missouri and take advantage of the programs designed to help you thrive. Whether you’re planning to innovate, expand, or invest in your team, 2026 is a year full of possibilities.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your business goals, from funding to banking solutions tailored to fit your needs. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender