Q: What’s your name, title, business?

A: Laura Lewis Marchino, Executive Director, Region 9 EDD. Read her full bio, here.

Q: Tell us about your entrepreneurial and professional journey.

A: Most people don’t say “I want to be an economic developer when I grow up” and I was no different.   I started in Journalism and evolved to economic development because it combined the best of “changing the world,” “making a difference” and helping connect resources.  It needs the journalist skills of being a generalist, growing relationships, communication, meeting deadlines and being politically neutral or “Switzerland”.

Q: What was the most powerful lesson you learned on this journey?

A: To always be curious. We are never finished with our education and there is something new to learn every day.  

Q: How do you apply this to your leadership and mentoring skills?

A: Always try to listen to learn and then listen to fix.

Q: What’s your favorite part about SCAPE?

A: I love seeing the great ideas that entrepreneurs have and bring to SCAPE, trusting that the group can help them create and sustain a viable business.

Q: Why are you involved with SCAPE?

A: Region 9’s first Executive Director helped launch SCAPE and make it a reality.  I have seen the organization do great things and want to see it continue and thrive.

Q: Why should someone apply for SCAPE?

A: There is a proven track record that SCAPE businesses can be successful and are great ambassadors for our community.

Q: What do you love most about Southwest Colorado?

A: I love that there is a reputation of creativity and that anyone can move here and start or grow a successful business.