The city of Houston has received a $127,623 U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Business Development grant to establish the Idea Lab Small Business Incubator.
The grant will be used to renovate the Houston Visitor Center into a shared workspace for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Plans call for four coworking spaces, a private office, conference room and break room, with 24-hour key card access for participants.
The project also includes $20,000 in city funding and $20,000 in in-kind labor from the city. The Bank of Houston and Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines are contributing an additional $10,000.
The Idea Lab is expected to accommodate eight to 10 tenants. Participants are expected to receive training from the Ozarks Small Business Incubator and mentorship from area attorneys, bankers and insurance professionals.
Construction is scheduled to begin in December, with the facility expected to open by June 2027.
U.S. Rep. Jason Smith sent a letter to USDA Rural Development on Nov. 4, 2025, supporting the city’s grant application. Smith’s office announced the award Sept. 27.
USDA Rural Business Development grants provide funding to eligible public entities and nonprofit organizations for projects intended to support rural economic development and job creation.
