State Resources for Businesses

Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) – Oversees a wide array of programs to assist established businesses and encourage new ones.

Mississippi Procurement Technical Assistance Program (MPTAP) – Is an integral element of the Mississippi Development Authority. A private non-profit corporation, South Mississippi Contract Procurement Center, Inc., operates the center in Biloxi. The MPTAP provides its services only to Mississippi businesses. The services are provided at NO CHARGE. Their mission is to enhance national defense and economic development of the State of Mississippi by assisting Mississippi businesses in obtaining federal, state, local government and commercial contracts.

Mississippi Small Business Development Center – A partnership program with SBA, provides free help to Mississippi businesses.

Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET) – MSET is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to creating high-skill, high-wage jobs in Mississippi. MSET taps the scientific and technical assets of the state to promote industrial growth, stimulate new business start-ups, and attract companies to Mississippi. MSET is a joint effort of the Mississippi Development Authority, NASA and Mississippi’s universities.

Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District – Has the mission of identifying and capitalizing on the development potentials of the 15 southern Mississippi counties. Their website contains extensive data and links to a wide scope of departments, including Workforce Development, Business Development, and Geographic and Mapping Information.

Hancock Chamber Business Resource Center – The Chamber’s Business Resource Center operates five days a week. Trained counselors offer resources for creating business plans, information on obtaining financing, and referrals for important information to help start up or grow local businesses. Call (228) 467-9048 to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.

Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission (HCPHC) – Hancock County, Mississippi is the home of Stennis Space Center. HCPHC functions as the county’s Economic Development Authority, Port Authority, and Airport Authority, as well as operates Port Bienville Industrial Park, Port Bienville Railroad and Stennis International Airport/Airpark. At this website you will find information including services, capabilities, and opportunities that they offer with Stennis International Airport, Port Bienville Railroad, Port Bienville Industrial Park and Stennis Space Center.

The Mississippi Energy Institute would like for every available energy job in the state to be filled. To get there, the think tank has launched getonthegridms.com, a website designed to get those interested in technical and professional occupations in the energy sector connected to the places and people who can help.