How Intellectual Property Rights are Shared at MU

If you could invent anything you wanted, what would it be? You thought of something pretty quickly, right? Many of us have thought about this before. It’s doubtful, though, that we have then thought about the patent process or getting our invention to market — a process that is often long, arduous, and costly. But […]
A Federal Grant Assists the Loop in Developing a “Maker Economy”

While Columbia boasts a healthy startup economy for local coffee roasters, breweries, and the like, it lacks a concentrated sector devoted to the small-scale artisan manufacturing that generates middle-skills jobs — those that require training but not a college degree. Carrie Gartner, executive director of The Loop, says that’s a problem because, as with most […]
Shaping Glass

The stitched artwork of Susan Taylor Glasgow. Photos by Keith Borgmeyer From the sidewalk, the glass studio of artist Susan Taylor Glasgow appears to be any other well-kept, cheery older home in north downtown Columbia. When one walks through the door, the space is cozy and homey. But the only baking that takes place here […]
The Sweet Sounds of COMO

Local musicians headline area shows and festivals. Photos by Keith Borgmeyer Original music and local performers are the true expression of Columbia. From world-class jazz musicians to blues at the park to catching a band before a film, there’s a group and a musical style for all Columbians to discover and enjoy. Music tells the […]
Through Their Lens

Four local photographers give us a glimpse of the town they love. Photos by Keith Borgmeyer, Aaron Ottis, Anastasia Pottinger, and Anthony Jinson These photos, along with many others, will be on exhibit at the Montminy Gallery through January 27. Heart of the City by Keith Borgmeyer Dawn of a New Day by Keith Borgmeyer […]
A Board Game Creator Making Moves

What’s new with Mark Swanson’s Euro-style board game, “Feudum”? In the summer of 2016, CBT caught up with MU professor Mark Swanson to discuss his dream of creating a board game of his own. Two years have passed, and not only has his dream come to fruition; it’s becoming a worldwide phenomenon. While exciting, this […]
20 Under 40 2019 Reveals – Greg Brockmeier

Congratulations to Greg Brockmeier, 37, for being chosen as part of our 2019 class of 20 Under 40! Get to know a bit about Greg before the issue: Occupation Financial advisor with Brockmeier Financial Services, LLC Years lived in Columbia 22 What excites you about your job? The best thing about what I get to […]
20 Under 40 2019 Reveals – Judson Ball

Congratulations to Judson Ball, 36, for being chosen as part of our 2019 class of 20 Under 40! Get to know a bit about Judson before the issue: Occupation Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Logboat Brewing Company Years lived in Columbia 14 What is the one business goal you have for 2019, and how […]
Small Businesses on the Hunt for Workers

The unemployment rate in Columbia is the lowest it’s been since 2000. This year it has ranged from 2.9 percent to 2.3 percent. Statewide, unemployment has consistently dipped below the national average over the past three years. Although these numbers are obviously a positive for the city and state, a smaller pool of unemployed workers […]
Cole Knudsen Maximizes the Contribution of His Quaker Oats Team

Cole Knudsen is as genuine and engaging as they come. On this late Friday afternoon, he is particularly excited about grabbing his family, jumping in their Jeep, and heading to Katfish Katy’s for Katfish Tacos and a craft beer. His eyes are bright and his smile wide. For a newcomer to Columbia, he seems to […]
How to Prepare For, Hire, and Keep Freelancers

We’re working in a gig world. According to a LinkedIn study published in August, 70 percent of small businesses have hired a freelancer and 81 percent of those businesses planned to hire freelancers in the future. Fifty-two percent of small business hiring managers said they would hire more freelancers in the next five years. According […]
In Focus: A Laboring Problem

When companies are considering a relocation to Columbia, Chamber of Commerce President Matt McCormick wants the city to be sending them a very clear message. “We’re open for business,” McCormick says. “We want your company here. We want you to be able to thrive and grow here and be successful here.” There’s a potential problem […]