Start a Business

Business Assistance Center

The University of Mississippi Small Business Development Center resides in the Renasant Center for IDEAs.

The SBDC provides a variety of FREE services to more than 10,000 small businesses in both as start-ups and as ongoing firms. The services include individual counseling, workshops, and information exchange. The SBDC assists in the development of business plans, marketing, management, innovation development, and financial planning. A business counselor is available in the Renasant Center for IDEAs to assist those considering becoming tenants and to assist the tenants as they develop and grow.

Derek Stephens graduated from The University of Mississippi in 2012 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Banking and Finance. Prior to MSBDC, Derek spent six years in the financial sector. Most recently, Derek has obtained a Certificate of Technology Commercialization from the Institute of Technology Commercialization.


Mississippi Small Business Development Center
Contact Information

School of Business Administration
Small Business Development Center
The University of Mississippi
Tupelo Office:
Renasant Center for IDEAs
398 E Main St., Room 102

Who can help you get started?

Judd Wilson

Judd Wilson

Community Development Foundation
Senior Vice President Chamber of Commerce