We have entered the dawn of another year – our second as an independent non-profit! Since our relaunch in January 2023, we’ve expanded our efforts in startup ecosystem building—leading the nation in redefining what it means to be a rural entrepreneur.
While we are proud of all that we accomplished last year, far more we are grateful and humbled: grateful for your trust and humbled by your response to our plans for the future. As we gear up for 2024, we continue to ask: What more can Startup Colorado do to support thriving rural ecosystems?
The results of this question have informed a new strategic plan, which includes expanded support for rural entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders via in-person and online engagement, local partnership development, educational and funding opportunities, and storytelling.
Thank you to our community of Colorado entrepreneurs, business owners, and ecosystem builders – your engagement, gumption, and inspiration are the catalysts for rural Colorado’s transformation. We’ve highlighted some of last year’s wins below, but encourage you to get the full story:
2023 First Year Wins
We’re thrilled to share many of the accomplishments from our first year as a registered non-profit:
- Relaunched the Founder Coopetition, supporting 42 rural entrepreneurs
- Distributed $52,250 in awards to entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders
- Supported 1,700+ community members via the Startup Colorado Community
- 482 Active Businesses (71 Idea Stage, 179 Launch Stage, 232 Growth Stage)
- Assumed the lead organizer and fiscal agent role of West Slope Startup Week
- Hired four new employees
- Launched a new website and featured 30+ rural entrepreneurs in our storytelling program
We hosted a variety of in-person and virtual events each month, totaling over 560 participants.
2023 events overview:
- Average 2.3 events per month
- 21 virtual events
- 9 in-person events
- 12 women specific events
- 10 rural regions activated by SUCO events
What’s next for Startup Colorado?
We will continue to empower Colorado entrepreneurs to build success wherever they call home. Rural Coloradoans exude the resilience and tenacity that fuel the startup scene. Our team is eager to support these passionate entrepreneurs and give everyone the opportunity to grow, whether through funding access, business advancement opportunities, community connection, or good ol’ fashioned storytelling.
