Congratulations Leading Edge Graduates
Celebrating 35 New Entrepreneurs: Leading Edge Graduates Ready to Transform Rural Colorado
35 entrepreneurs have successfully graduated from our Leading Edge Spanish workshop series! This achievement represents more than just program completion; it marks the beginning of 35 new business journeys that will strengthen and revitalize our rural communities.
The eight-part Leading Edge workshop series, hosted in partnership between FSWCF and the San Luis Valley Small Business Development Center (SLV SBDC), has equipped these participants with the essential building blocks to launch and grow successful small businesses.
The courses covered everything from business plan development and organizational structure to human resources, business economics, financial literacy, marketing strategies, accounting principles, and advanced finance concepts. The goal is to ensure that every participant understands and can confidently apply these essential business concepts as they start or expand their ventures.
Passion in Action
One of the best aspects of this program was hearing directly from these entrepreneurs during their final business plan presentations. In breakout sessions, each graduate had approximately 10 minutes to pitch their business vision, followed by valuable feedback and encouragement from peers and mentors.
Investing in Real Growth
Every graduate who completed the full series receives a $2,000 grant to invest directly into their business. This seed capital is designed to fuel growth right here in our rural communities. Whether it's purchasing equipment, developing marketing materials, securing inventory, or covering initial operating expenses, these grants provide the crucial bridge between business planning and business reality.
Here's to 35 new entrepreneurs ready to make their mark on Colorado's economic landscape. The future looks bright, and we can't wait to see where your business journeys take you!
Interested in joining our next Leading Edge cohort? Contact FSWCF to learn about upcoming opportunities to transform your business idea into reality.