Guide to Missouri State Government

Department of Economic Development

The Department of Economic Development administers a wide array of services and programs designed to enhance Missouri’s economic growth and to create solid, high-paying jobs. These essential services focus on workers, businesses and communities. The department is composed of agencies that administer statutory requirements and department policy in the areas of community, economic and workforce development. Helping the department with its mission are a number of divisions, boards, commissions and councils.

The Business and Community Services Division is the largest division in the Department and houses the sales, research, marketing, finance and compliance teams.

The Division of Workforce Development remains a pivotal section of the Department, helping Missourians access gainful employment and train for the next-generation, high-tech jobs of tomorrow’s economy.

The Missouri Division of Tourism, Missouri Development Finance Board, Missouri Housing Development Commission, Missouri Arts Council, Missouri Women’s Council, and the Missouri Community Service Commission are all housed within the Department, as are the Missouri Public Service Commission, Office of Public Counsel, Missouri Military Commission, Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board, Missouri Film Commission, Hispanic Business, Trade and Culture Commission, and the Missouri Technology Corporation.