Start A Business
Starting a Business in West County? Take Advantage of These Resources!
Each of the cities within the West St. Louis County area operate independently and vary in requirements for opening and operating a business within their community. All businesses are required to obtain a business license and/or permits.
For the IRS site for small businesses: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html
For information on licensing and taxes: Missouri Department of Revenue
For information on starting a business: Small Business Administration
For Missouri Census and Demographics: https://www.oseda.missouri.edu/uic/
For Missouri School Demographics: https://services.dese.state.mo.us/basictab.html
For information on events, places to see: Missouri Tourism
The West St. Louis County business community is a unique blend of small to mid-size businesses, retail, manufacturers and corporate offices. Economic development has flourished in the county because of well-timed annexations and an environment that encourages new business and growth.
In Ballwin and Manchester, many of the several hundred small stores and services are owned and operated by local residents. Doctors, dentists, attorneys and other business professionals enjoy the convenience of living and working within West St. Louis County. A number of banks, insurance agencies and financial services are also located in this area.
Valley Park has a mix of small to medium-size businesses with everything from restaurants to retail stores and a growing industrial presence. Ellisville represents a mix of larger corporate offices, light industrial sites, and smaller retail and service establishments.
The primary component of Wildwood’s Master Plan is the Town Center Area-the hub of commerce within the community. This area is designed according to New Urbanist standards, which seek to incorporate pedestrian friendly developments within a mixed use area of business and residential. Wildwood actively seeks commerce ventures that are eager to establish within the unique structure of the Town Center Plan.
The major highways in the West St. Louis County area are lined with beautifully designed office complexes and business parks. The Highway 40 corridor from I-270 to west of Highway 141 has over 3.2 million square feet of office space. The Manchester Road and I-270 intersection has an additional 1.8 million square feet.
The West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce brings members of the business community together. It promotes networking and economic development through a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including Business Card Exchanges, monthly membership meetings, Power Networking event, a Business Expo & Networking Social, Casino Night, legislative forums, educational seminars, and an annual Trivia Night.
Local Business Education
Fontbonne University – Eckelkamp College of Global Business and Professional Studies, Business Administration Programs
Maryville University – John E. Simon School of Business, Online MBA Program
Missouri Baptist University – Business Administration Programs, Online MBA Program
Saint Louis University – John Cook School of Business, Accelerated MBA Program
St. Louis Community College – Business Administration Programs
University of Missouri at St. Louis – UMSL College of Business, UMSL Business Online
Webster University – George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology, One Year MBA Program
Washington University in St. Louis – Olin Business School, Specialized Masters Programs
What Our Members Say About Us
"This is a great Chamber for making business connections and getting involved with the local communities. I have met many friends through my involvement with the West County Chamber of Commerce."
Robin Monks, Cetera Investors
"Joining the Chamber has helped advanced our business during good times and bad. Glad we made the commitment to join over ten years ago. There is no better place to develop your business than the West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce!!!"
Sandy Chestnas, Owner SERVPRO Team Chestnas
"The West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce has helped me grow my business for the past four years. Through their various networking meetings and events I've made business connections and friendships I otherwise wouldn't have. Their website and Facebook page are also a great resources for keeping up with local information and events."
Courtney Callahan, Courtney Callahan Realty
"I joined the West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce 3.5 years ago when opening Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital in Manchester, MO, and I’m so glad I did! The Chamber has been an incredible partner in helping grow my business over the past three years. Through their many networking meetings and events, I’ve made valuable business connections—and even better, real friendships—that I wouldn’t have found anywhere else. The Chamber’s website and social media pages, especially Facebook and Instagram, are also excellent tools for staying updated on local news and events. This is a super active Chamber filled with like-minded, motivated businesspeople who genuinely want to see each other succeed. Thank you Lori and Heather—you’re the best! Your energy and dedication make this Chamber truly special."
Wendy Sens, Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital
"I’m a proud member of the West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce and have made countless valuable connections that have helped in both business and in my personal life! I recommend this chamber to anyone that is looking to grow your network and make great friends while doing it! You will get a very warm welcome and feel the value quickly!"
Jenn Lawler, Red Key Realty Leaders
"Lori and Heather make this chamber rock. What an excellent way to connect and to expand your business impact. Join today!"
Doug Vernon, Thrivent Financial
"The West St Louis County Chamber of Commerce is an amazing group of people who are supportive on so many levels! Lori and Heather make sure members are engaged and always host the best events!"
April Baker, Magnolia Soap and Bath