The BIG MISSOURI program presents a great opportunity for women and minorities to make their dreams come true of owning a small business or expanding their business. BIG MISSOURI designates affordable capital to be made available to these businesses to help them grow and expand Missouri’s economy and create jobs and opportunities for all citizens. BIG Missouri Linked-Deposit loans can help make the critical difference to help these businesses achieve lasting success. The BIG MISSOURI Linked-Deposit program can help banks provide essential funding and capital to women and minority-owned businesses in Missouri, and do so at reduced interest rates to help these businesses succeed.

According to the U. S. Census Business Census, in 2002 there were 120,457 women-owned businesses in Missouri. These businesses generated more than $19 billion in annual sales and employ more than 150,000 workers.

In 2002, the U. S. Census Bureau Census indicated there were 30,194 privately held minority-owned businesses in the state. These businesses generated almost $4 billion in annual sales and employ more than 41,000 workers.

The treasurer’s office will provide special reports on the number of loans to women and minority owned businesses to the Governor and the General Assembly.