Since 2001,  the coalition has addressed the budget crisis; the impact of the fiscal crisis on the social service, mental health, health and senior services budget sectors; and the overall structural nature of Missouri’s revenue system. Between 2001-03, the coalition grew from 30 core members to more than 90 diverse organizations, including healthcare and social service providers and faith-based groups from across Missouri.

During the early 2000's, Missouri's budget crisis continued and the need to address the underlying causes of the state's fiscal problems became increasingly more urgent.  Members of the coaliton determined the need for full-time efforts to be devoted to research and analysis of key issues impacting Missouri's fiscal status.  In April, 2003, The Missouri Budget Project was founded as a statewide nonpartisan, nonprofit fiscal analysis organization.  Amy Blouin was named Executive Director ; a diversely- skilled board of directors was established which includes members with expertise in tax policy, economics, and research.