How Carver Brewing Achieved Carbon Neutrality (and You Can Too)
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability—and Carver Brewing in Durango is proof that progress starts with small, smart steps. In this issue of The Rural Startup, we sit down with […]
How This Family Made a Local Tradition Pop
What makes popcorn pop? Expansion. When a kernel warms up, the moisture inside builds pressure until it bursts open, transforming into something entirely new (and tasty). Apply that same principle […]
Funding Your Rural Startup: How to Choose the Right Mix for Growth
There’s no single path to funding a business—and no one tool that works for every founder. In this issue of The Rural Startup, we speak with Catherine Jones, founder, CEO, […]
Announcing the Pitch Competition Winners at West Slope Startup Week
The spirit of rural entrepreneurship was on full display last week at Startup Colorado’s Pitch Competition at West Slope Startup Week. More than 115 attendees—including founders, funders, ecosystem builders, and […]
Night Market at West Slope Startup Week
This blog was first published by West Slope Startup Week on September 17, 2025. Looking for your next favorite artisan-crafted necklace, ceramic creation, or herbal remedy—or maybe just a good […]
Announcing the Finalists of the Startup Colorado Pitch Competition at West Slope Startup Week
Rural founders are stepping into the spotlight once again. Startup Colorado has named the finalists for its upcoming Pitch Competition at West Slope Startup Week in Durango on October 8, […]
Is a Small Business Loan Right For You?
For many rural founders, the decision to take out a business loan can feel like a gamble. On one hand, access to capital can fuel growth, stability, and opportunity. On […]
Our Executive Director’s Take on a Recent Delegation to Mexico City
By Brittany Romano Last week, I had the honor of joining the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade and a delegation of female founders, funders, and ecosystem builders […]
From Risk to Resilience: How to Conduct a Climate Risk Assessment for Your Business
Wildfires, droughts, floods—Colorado’s changing climate is reshaping how rural businesses operate. Yet, with every challenge comes opportunity. This issue of The Rural Startup explores how founders can prepare for and […]
From Founder to Thought Leader: Using SEO + Content Strategy to Gain Authority
Struggling to stand out as a founder? The best solution doesn’t always win—the best-known one does. In this article, Kelsey Parks of Psyche Digital shares how rural founders can build […]
Startup Colorado Partners with Belonging Colorado to Launch Social Entrepreneurship Accelerator
Startup Colorado is joining forces with Belonging Colorado, a bold, new effort housed at The Denver Foundation. Together they are launching a social entrepreneurship accelerator program in 2026. Startup Colorado […]
How ScoutSpace’s VC Deal Proves the Potential of Rural Tech Startups
By Margaret Hedderman There’s a reason they call it rocket fuel. Since receiving his first round of angel and venture capital funding in February, John Harlan has grown his real […]
Profile: Startup Colorado’s First Artist-in-Residence, Emilie Odeile and Business Partner, Ken Chapin
By Brook Sutton and Margaret Hedderman Emilie Odeile and Ken Chapin are not afraid to take risks. “Being reasonable has never really been one of our operating constraints,” Ken says. […]
Can Rural Startups Offer Employee Benefits?
Think only big companies can afford to offer employee benefits? Think again. In this article on The Rural Startup, we break down how rural founders can use programs like Colorado SecureSavings—plus […]
Curiosity Didn’t Kill the Founder: It Helped Them Navigate Chaos
Feeling stuck, scattered, or uncertain about your next move as a founder? Try… curiosity! In a conversation with purpose coach Holly Woods, PhD, she shares how cultivating curiosity can help […]
Full Steam Ahead: Startup Colorado’s Mid-Year Highlights
By Margaret Hedderman We’re only halfway through 2025, and it’s already shaping up to be a year for the books. From brand launches and team milestones to expanded programming and […]
Storytelling Tips for Your Startup Pitch
A great pitch doesn’t just inform…it moves people. Whether you’re talking to investors, customers, or partners, your ability to tell a compelling story can be the difference between a “maybe” […]
The Backpack Didn’t Fit—So She Built a Better One
By Margaret Hedderman Hiking a long distance trail is meant to be one of those life altering experiences; a sort of trial by fire that transforms you inside and out. […]