The Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG), established in 1989, serves as the federally-designated Economic Development District for a 10-county region in Southwest Missouri. It functions as an association of local governments and stakeholders, overseeing regional growth and development while offering professional services and information to aid cities and counties with development issues. SMCOG received a $400.00K grant investment from the US Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration on 12 August 2020. The organization's programs cater to local and regional needs, showcasing commitment to the development and progress of the Southwest Missouri region.