Last year, Startup Colorado launched an innovative, four-week pilot program in support of rural entrepreneurs. The Founder CO-OPetition combined “cooperation” and “competition,” enabling entrepreneurs to not only start their own businesses, but also help others in their journey. We caught up with a few of our alumni to see how their businesses have evolved since participating in the program.
Sheamus Croke, Confluence Events – Telluride
Since participating in the SUCO Founder Co-opetition, Confluence Events has grown from hosting one annual event, the Hanging Flume 50k, to three! We have been working within our local community of Southwest Colorado to grow our brand and garnish a reputation as a company that hosts well-organized and fun races and events. Big thanks to SUCO for the support.
Jane & Louise Barden, Farm to Summit – Durango
Farm to Summit is in a state of rapid evolution! Since the Co-Opetition we have moved to a commercial facility of our own, purchased two commercial dehydrators, and are working on a rebrand of our packaging that will debut by next season. We will be raising money for a bulk purchase of these custom bags with an upcoming Kickstarter campaign and are excited to be adding new wholesale accounts across the country!
Jodi Jahrling, ZU Gallery – Cortez
ZU Gallery is approaching our one year anniversary! We have really evaluated the revenue streams and have added and removed things for our new year. We are doubling our artists, continuing with our beer/wine license, pairing down events, and increasing workshops. We have also applied for grants that will help us continue our community outreach. Our biggest strategy for success is creating opportunities that help the business community as a whole and not just ourselves.
Thayer Hirsh, Knome – Frisco
Since the CO-OPetition, we’ve changed our name (to Knome) and redefined our customer (to real estate agents). These changes were born from feedback from the CO-OPetition that allowed us to hone in our customer offerings and help distinguish us in our software space. In June, we were selected to participate in the Rockies Venture Club Hyper Accelerator. We are thrilled to continue to grow our customer base and offerings.
