University of Missouri Extension Highlights the Growing Impact of Women-Owned Businesses in Missouri

The University of Missouri Extension – St. Francois County is highlighting new data that underscores the powerful and growing role women play in Missouri’s economy, particularly in key service and health care sectors.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Non-employer Statistics program, most Missouri businesses with employees (76 percent) and nonemployer firms (58 percent) were operated by men in 2023. However, women continue to make significant economic contributions across the state. Women-owned businesses accounted for more than half (51 percent) of all service-sector firms in Missouri, demonstrating their strong presence in industries that directly support families, communities, and local economies.

One of Missouri’s fastest-growing job sectors, health care, is led overwhelmingly by women. Nearly two out of every three health care firms in the state (67 percent) are women-owned, highlighting the essential leadership role women entrepreneurs play in this expanding and critical field.

The data also shows geographic differences in business ownership. Women-owned sole proprietorships are more common in metro areas, where they represent 44 percent of firms, compared with 37 percent in nonmetro counties. These trends reflect both opportunities and challenges for women business owners across rural and urban communities.

University of Missouri Extension uses research-based data like this to help inform education, programming, and support for entrepreneurs statewide. By understanding where women-owned businesses are growing and thriving, communities can better support inclusive economic development.

To read the full Missouri Economy Indicators brief on women-owned businesses, visit:
👉 https://brnw.ch/21wZr2Q