MOSourceLink adds startup founder as new ‘Network Convener’ to rally ESOs, entrepreneurs

A newly-created role is expected to help strengthen connections between entrepreneur support organizations across the state and promote the wealth of resources available to Missouri’s entrepreneurs.

Adam Larson — founder of Decimal Projects, CEO of Catnip Budz Gourmet Catnip, and former program coordinator at Regnier Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at UMKC — moves to MOSourceLink and KCSourceLink through the position.

“I’m incredibly grateful to join this team,” said Larson. “Supporting entrepreneurs is my ‘Why?’ I get so much energy from working with founders.”

“Witnessing their drive, their mission, their progress: that’s what motivates me more than anything else,” he continued. “I can’t explain how much it would have meant to have a resource like MOSourceLink when I started my first business at 16. If you’re an early-stage founder seeking startup support or a more mature company with unique business challenges, consider contacting MOSourceLink and KCSourceLink; I think you’ll be glad you did.”

As Network Convener, Larson leads efforts to bring ESOs together, creating opportunities for:

• Connection — fostering collaboration across the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Professional Development — providing learning and growth opportunities for organizations that support entrepreneurs.
• Visibility — elevating and promoting the programs and services ESOs offer to entrepreneurs statewide.

He’s also expected to work one-on-one with entrepreneurs across Missouri as a “Network Navigator — helping to connect business owners to more than 600 resources statewide, ensuring that entrepreneurs at every stage can access the support they need to start, grow and succeed.

“We are thrilled to have Adam join our team,” said Becca Castro, senior director of Regional Ecosystem Development at the UMKC Innovation Center. “He brings a unique perspective as both an entrepreneur and a connector of people, which will strengthen our efforts to support small businesses across Missouri. Adam will travel across the state to meet with entrepreneur support organizations and business owners—if you’d like to connect with him, please reach out. We want to ensure every entrepreneur knows about and has access to the incredible resources available to help them succeed.”

Larson founded Decimal Projects which creates cost effective Airtable databases for small businesses and nonprofits who need organized data. This summer, he also took on Catnip Budz Gourmet Catnip, a second-generation, Missouri-based business that produces high potency, pesticide free catnip and durable, handmade cat toys.

Click here to book a meeting with Larson or request a Personal Action Plan.

Network Navigator Rebecca TenHulzen joins Larson at MOSourceLink to provide entrepreneur-focused resources, where she serves Trenton, Missouri, and surrounding counties.

Working at the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission, TenHulzen provides hands-on guidance and connects local founders to the resources, partners and systems that fuel sustainable growth. She brings experience in business development and community-driven economic growth. TenHulzen is available online to book a meeting.