The Missouri Women's Council was established in 1985 by the State's 83rd General Assembly to identify and address issues affecting the economic and employment status of women in Missouri. The first name of the council was the Missouri Council on Women's Economic Development and Training (MCWEDT). The name was changed to the Missouri Women's Council in 1994.

It is the intent of the Missouri Women's Council to work closely with other agencies and community-based organizations to build awareness, educate, promote opportunities for, and enhance the lives and well being of Missouri's women and families. By providing information and resources to enhance the employability and skill development of women and families, we provide support to women as they pursue their economic goals.

The Missouri Women’s Council offers information and resources on Starting Your Own Business, Women in Business, Finding a Great Job, Upgrading Your Skills, Working from Home and Obtaining State Contracts. It also publishes a “Self-Sufficiency Standard ” which shows how much income is needed to sustain a family. It is listed by county and is available free of charge to all.

Another popular publication is the “Women’s Resource Guide” which lists a directory of programs, services and web sites related to issues of interest to women. It is our hope that this guide will serve as a valuable resource for addressing the needs and concerns of women in Missouri.

The Council is an agency within the Department of Economic Development. The bipartisan Council is comprised of 15 members: 11 appointed by the Governor, 2 Missouri State Senators, and 2 Missouri State Representatives with the chair appointed by the governor. An Executive Director serves the Missouri Women’s Council and the women of Missouri.