Are you located in the Durango area and interested in connecting with stakeholders in the employee ownership ecosystem or learning more about succession planning? 

If yes, then come join us at Steamworks Brewing Company on 09/20/2024 for an afternoon of networking, resource sharing, and conviviality! We will meet from 2:00-4:00PM and your first beer is on Kris Oyler, Co-Founder and CEO of Peak Food & Beverage. We will gather  in the courtyard on the north side of the building.

We will be joined by local employee-owned companies, financial institutions supporting employee ownership transitions, service and technical assistance providers in the employee ownership ecosystem, and other community members. 

This event will be focused on networking, relationship building, and resource sharing. Some resources that will be shared include: 

• Rural Colorado Employee Ownership Technical Assistance Scholarship program: to help offset the cost of technical assistance for converting your business to an employee ownership structure. 

• Employee Ownership Tax Credit program: providing up to $150,000 to offset the cost to convert your business to employee ownership. 

• Cash Collateral Support program: credit enhancement of up to $800,000 that helps small and medium-sized businesses in Colorado access loans that they would otherwise not receive.

• Exit Planning and Introduction to Employee Ownership courses: online, free, and on demand virtual educational courses to set you and your business up for success!

• And much more!

Your hosts for this event will be: 

• Kris Oyler, Co-Founder and CEO of Peak Food & Beverage, and Member of the Colorado Employee Ownership Commission

• Kerry Siggins, CEO of StoneAge, and Chair of the Colorado Employee Ownership Commission

• Matthew Licina, Program Manager of the Colorado Employee Ownership Office, part of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT)

Event Details:

• Date: September 20, 2024 from 2:00-4:00PM

• Location: Steamworks Brewing Company, 801 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301. 

• To be held in the courtyard on the north side of the building.

• Cost: Free to attend, 1 free beverage from Steamworks (guests cover their own food costs)

• RSVP is not required, so please just show up! If you would like to be included in the calendar card for this event, please send Matthew.Licina@state.co.us an email. 

Are you confused about investment funds and how they fit into your startup's funding strategy? You're not alone - navigating the world of venture capital can be daunting, but it is essential to understand how venture capital fits within a funding strategy for a growing startup.

Join us to explore how startups can navigate the complex world of venture capital and find the right investors for their growth journey. We will cover essential elements of investment strategy, what investors look for, and how to position your startup for success.

In this session, you will meet experienced investors and startup ecosystem builders who are shaping the future of venture capital in rural and mountain west regions. We will:

• Discuss how venture capital fits within a funding strategy for growing startups

• Explore what to expect when raising funds, including investor returns and the differences between venture and traditional capital

• Examine why traction and market size matter to investors

• Share insights on how to determine if your company is the right fit for venture investment

• Provide an overview of the regional investment fund landscape

Meet Our Panelists:

• Elizabeth Marsh, the executive director of the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE), has overseen the creation of 52 new businesses in Southwest Colorado, building SCAPE into an award-winning engine for innovation and growth.
  

• Cory Finney, Fund Manager at Greater Colorado Venture Fund, brings a wealth of experience as both an entrepreneur and investor. He co-founded and led SnowGate from concept to acquisition, and has since guided numerous startups through finance and fundraising as an Entrepreneur in Residence and venture capitalist.

Our panelists will share their experiences and insights, offering valuable lessons on understanding investor expectations, building relationships, and leveraging resources for long-term startup success in the Mountain West region.

Registration (free) is required to attend WSSW sessions. Thank you! https://whova.com/portal/registration/wssw_202408/

Join local organization, the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE), for a rooftop gathering at their Durango headquarters*. Cool down while getting the low down at this fun ice cream social while enjoying Durango views from their epic rooftop patio. SCAPE will be hosting their partner and special guest, the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI), to share about their national resources and why rural entrepreneurship matters. 

Hang with fellow WSSW attendees and hear from SCAPE supporters about company acceleration, rural investment funds, how to stay plugged into the local ecosystem and beyond. Come out and celebrate rural entrepreneurship in our awesome community space!

https://whova.com/portal/registration/wssw_202408/

____

SCAPE’s mission is to scale high growth, job-creating companies in Southwest Colorado by providing resources, mentoring, and access to funding. www.goscape.org

The Center on Rural Innovation is advancing economic prosperity in rural America through the creation of inclusive tech economy ecosystems that support scalable entrepreneurship and tech job creation. www.ruralinnovation.us

____

*SCAPE is located in the Purgatory Sports building  - 2615 Main Ave. #1, Durango, CO 81301. The entrance is located at the parking lot side door facing north. Look for the SCAPE Banner and head upstairs to the right. There's an elevator through the second entrance door, to the left, that will take you to the third floor. The rooftop requires one additional flight of stairs to access.

Join us to explore how rural Colorado communities are transforming into vibrant hubs for startups and small businesses. We will cover the essential elements that attract and retain entrepreneurs, talent, and a stable workforce.

In this session, you will meet dedicated leaders transforming rural economies through innovation, investment, and community-driven growth. We will:

• Assess several West Slope communities, highlighting their successes and identifying areas for improvement.

• Share available resources across rural Colorado, including funding programs, accelerators, grants, economic development investments, education, and events.

• Discuss livability factors such as housing affordability, recreation, and family-friendly amenities and culture that make communities more competitive in attracting and retaining talent and businesses.

We want to hear from you, too! Join the discussion and share your thoughts on community aspects or resources we might have missed, creating a collaborative environment to enhance entrepreneurial support.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn, share, and connect with leaders transforming rural economies through innovation, investment, and community-driven growth.

Registration (free) is required to attend WSSW sessions. Thank you! https://whova.com/portal/registration/wssw_202408/

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered. Join us for our next Them Apples: Marketing & Chill, which is also part of the official West Slope Startup Week programming!

This month's topic Preparing Your Pitch & Pitch Deck

Learn how to craft a compelling pitch and create an impactful pitch deck to captivate your audience and secure those vital investments. Whether you’re pitching to investors, partners, or customers, we’ll equip you with the tools and insights to make your pitch unforgettable.

Let’s make your pitch stand out and elevate your business to new heights!

Time: Wednesday, August 21st, at noon.

Location: EsoTerra Ciderworks. 558 Main Ave.

Register: https://bit.ly/3AmJh53.

See you there!

SCAPE is hosting an invite-only workshop for anyone interested in pursuing the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) Advanced Industries Early-Stage Capital and Retention Grant.

The Advanced Industries Early-Stage Capital and Retention Grant helps Colorado-based advanced industries technology businesses develop and commercialize advanced technologies that will be created or manufactured in Colorado. Projects can receive up to $250,000. There is a required 2-to-1 (company-to-state) match. Application periods are January to March and July to September.

We will be joined by local committee members to review application concepts. SCAPE has assisted 11 companies in gaining these funds, learn from the experts on how to develop a strong proposal. This is a very competitive program and is designated for companies that fit within OEDIT’s advanced industries scope. Please fill out the form below to prompt invitation.

Recommend attending the July 17th Brunch & Learn: Business Funding Assistance Programs with OEDIT in advance of this workshop to learn more about the state offerings directly from the program managers.

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered. This month's topic  Your Networking Brand Kit

With West Slope Startup Week quickly approaching, it’s time to prepare and put your best foot forward. Learn how to create a standout Networking Brand Kit that ensures you make a lasting impression and connect with the right people.

Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your networking game. Get ready to shine at West Slope Startup Week!

Time: Wednesday, July 17th, at noon.
Location: EsoTerra Ciderworks. 558 Main Ave.
Register: https://psychedigital.com/them-apples-registration/

See you there!

SCAPE is inviting you to a casual brunch joined by the Office of Economic Development and International Trade to discuss state funding opportunities for Colorado businesses. 

Get to know Rama Haris, OEDIT Advanced Industries Senior Manager, Sophia Gonzalez-Mayagoitia OEDIT International Export Grant Manager, and Kacie Adair, Advanced Industries Grant Manager. They will be sharing information on programming and assistance that are offered by the state. Enjoy casual brunch and a presentation about the following topics:

• AI Early Stage Capital and Retention Grant

• AI Investment Tax Credit

• AI Export Grant

• Global Consultant Network

• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

Wednesday, July 17 @ 10am. Drinks and light fair will be provided, please arrive early to get food and situated for the presentation. Seats are limited, please RSVP. SCAPE headquarters directions will be sent prior to event.

Free Brunch & Learn with RSVP:

Join us for our upcoming Value Proposition Workshop, led by the esteemed marketing and advertising expert, Geoff Wolf. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to refine your value proposition with guidance from a seasoned professional, co-hosted by SCAPE partner Energize Colorado. We're also excited to welcome notable Durango business owners, who will share the value propositions they've successfully crafted over the years. Food and drinks will also be provided by EsoTerra!

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/value-proposition-workshop-tickets-901733728857

The session will offer a new way to understand a brand’s value and an opportunity to refine your value proposition. The key focus will be on these elements:

• Networking time to learn from your peers

• A 30 minute presentation on refining your value proposition

• Workshops in smaller groups applying the key points of the presentation.

 We guarantee:

 -- You will hear solutions that you have not heard before

 -- The session will teach you a new way to develop your value proposition

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Get ready for Downtown Colorado Inc.'s interactive IN THE GAME conference happening April 2-5 in Durango. The first half is a deep dive into problem solving for communities, and the second half will feature cutting edge ideas around what is coming next for downtowns and our state. This unique event gets participants out of their seats and into the host community, exploring the places and projects that vibrant downtowns love to see. SCAPE will be hosting a lunch during the event.

Wednesday, April 3, 12:30 - 2:30 PM, DCI's Signature Dine Around Lunches

Let us take you to lunch at one of the fabulous establishments in town!   

Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: The SCAPE Story 

Explore the story of SCAPE, the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs, and its significant influence on local entrepreneurs in Durango. This session provides insights into how SCAPE has fostered a supportive environment for business innovation and growth in its decade of service. Learn about the initiatives and strategies that have made SCAPE a pivotal part of Durango’s entrepreneurial landscape.    Presented by Brittany Cupp, Elizabeth Marsh 

Brought to you with support from Visit Durango

EsoTerra Ciderworks    

MORE INFO: https://www.downtowncoloradoinc.org/in-the-game/

SCAPE is hosting an Investor Evening on April 2nd for Accredited Investors. Gain information about SCAPE's Investment Funds and how to join the Investment Fund 8 LP - which provides funding to regional companies and helps with the diversification of the local economy. Enjoy food, learn about companies, and meet other investors in the area.

RSVP to emarsh@goscape.org

Calling All Manufacturers! Join Manufacturer’s Edge and SCAPE for a fun meetup!

Are you looking to elevate your manufacturing operations to new heights? Join us for an exclusive meet and greet event in collaboration with Manufacturer’s Edge, where you'll have the opportunity to connect with industry experts and discover how Manufacturer's Edge can support your growth journey. We’ll have free food and drinks too!

REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/manufacturing-meet-and-greet-tickets-863105059467?aff=scape

What you’ll gain:

• Network with fellow manufacturers and industry professionals in a collaborative environment.
• Learn about the wide range of support services offered by Manufacturer's Edge, including onsite support, strategy planning, training, and technical assistance.
• Gain insights into Colorado's unique manufacturing landscape and how Manufacturer's Edge can help you navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
• Discover potential synergies with SCAPE and explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

More than manufacturing: As Colorado’s official Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center, we provide onsite support, strategy, planning, training, and technical assistance to manufacturers of all sizes. Colorado’s unique manufacturing landscape has given us experience across industries. Our clients drive technology development, creativity, and new products, and we work closely with them to make sure their work reaches its intended audience. Local insights, diverse experience, and true dedication to providing manufacturers support – use the support we provide to empower your decisions as you continue to grow and improve the manufacturing landscape.

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

**Registration Full**

More events on the Corporate Transparency Act here:

https://clients.coloradosbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=20440060

https://clients.coloradosbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=20440061

———————-

Join us for a Q&A with SCAPE Co-Founder and Business Mentor, Gary Masner, to review the new reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act.

Effective January 1, 2024, the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) mandates that millions of both newly established and existing businesses (if they are corporations, limited liability companies, or certain other entities) must submit beneficial ownership information (BOI) to the U.S. Department of Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

During the presentation Gary will share who are defined as reporting companies and beneficial owners, what and when companies must report, explain penalties for noncompliance and the confidentiality of your information. Questions will be answered following the presentation.

Let us help breakdown the complexities of the new requirements so you can start off 2024 on the right foot! Register below and we will send you Zoom information and overview white paper.

You can also learn more at: https://www.fincen.gov/boi

**Registration Full**

Join Lead Organizer Vanessa McCrann for casual networking, founder spotlights, and some exciting WSSW announcements! Definitely some surprises in store. No dress code; we trust you.

No gathering at EsoTerra is complete without their outstanding charcuterie; Startup Colorado will be providing a spread! When you purchase a cider or N/A beverage, you'll be supporting a local startup, and one of the cornerstone venues of West Slope Startup Week.

This event is open to all founders, entrepreneurs, service providers, artists, business supporters, and community leaders! Please help us spread the word and bring a friend. Especially if that friend is starting or growing their own business.

West Slope Startup Week is a 5-day conference taking place Aug 19-23rd, 2024 in Durango. These social gatherings will be monthly leading up to the event. It's a great opportunity to network, ask questions about WSSW, and get involved!

Join First Southwest Community Fund and La Plata Food Equity Coalition to learn about what your new small business needs to file taxes. Focusing on our rural communities, we will offer this FREE online webinar via Zoom in both English and Spanish (live interpretation).

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/preparing-your-rural-business-for-tax-season-preparando-su-negocio-rural-tickets-791147231667?aff=oddtdtcreator

Únase a First Southwest Community Fund y La Plata Food Equity Coalition para conocer lo que su nueva pequeña empresa necesita para declarar impuestos. Centrándonos en nuestras comunidades rurales, ofreceremos gratis este seminario web en línea a través de Zoom tanto en inglés como en español (traducción en vivo interpretacion).

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

Deck the halls with gifts made right here in Southwest Colorado! The Start-Up Pop-Up will feature companies that manufacture incredibly innovative goods to make your gift giving thoughtful, unique, and local.

Sample food and drinks provided by EsoTerra Ciderworks and do your shopping while enjoying heritage cider that’s picked, pressed and poured in our region. There will be music and a holly jolly good time. The Start-Up Pop-Up is a perfect way to shop and support local companies, come celebrate with us 5-8pm, Noel Night, December 1st.

Event presented by the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE). Featured companies: Farm to Summit, Tectonic, and Voodoo Mixology.

We have some big news coming out of our small community! Local startup, GeekPack, has been selected to participate in a nationwide virtual pitch event hosted by the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI), a partner we work closely with on different tech-based economic development initiatives and programs.

The winner of the pitch event will receive a $10,000 prize and an opportunity to share their startup with a nationwide audience.

 We couldn’t be more excited for both GeekPack and Durango—this is an incredible opportunity to shift the narrative and help people understand and appreciate the innovation that’s happening across rural America. 

We hope that you will join us on November 15th from 5:30-8 p.m, ET to represent Durango in the virtual crowd. You can register for this free event here.

Your FREE monthly meet-up with Psyche Digital, sponsored by SCAPE, to get all your marketing questions answered.

Them Apples is a free, casual way to get your marketing questions answered by experts and meet other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Grab some lunch and learn tips to better your business!

Feel free to ask any other marketing questions, we're here to help!

Time: Tuesday, November 15, at 12:00 PM

Location: EsoTerra Ciderworks. 558 Main Ave.