Ecosystem Partners
AI INSTITUTE
Fort Lewis College
The AI Institute at Fort Lewis College advances AI exploration, education, and training to help La Plata County build the knowledge, capacity, and partnerships needed to responsibly and proactively shape its future in an AI-driven world.
We develop impactful AI education and training resources, create channels for networking and collaboration, and champion AI pilots that advance the public good. Through this work, the Institute helps people and organizations engage thoughtfully with AI and respond to emerging opportunities and challenges.
FLC@WORK
Fort Lewis College
FLC@Work is designed for community members not enrolled as Fort Lewis College students but wishing to enhance their skills without committing to a full four-year degree. Learn the skills employers in the Four Corners region need right now. Get started with FLC@Work's hands-on training programs.
CITY OF DURANGO
Prosperity Office
The City of Durango’s Prosperity Office connects residents, businesses, and community partners with resources that support a thriving local economy. Explore business development programs, grants and incentives, community events, destination management, and housing initiatives through the City’s Prosperity Office.
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
LA PLATA COUNTY
Economic Development Alliance
The La Plata Economic Development Alliance brings public and private partners together to strengthen the local economy. Its work focuses on business growth, workforce development, and workforce housing, helping build a stronger La Plata County where people can live, work, and thrive.
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE)
The Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE) scales high-growth, job-creating companies in Southwest Colorado by providing education, mentoring, and access to funding. Based in Durango, SCAPE works with start-ups and scale-ups through hands-on programming, a volunteer network of community mentors, and connections to capital.
The Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center offers no-cost business consulting and low-cost trainings that maximize the economic potential of entrepreneurs within our region. Our mission is to help existing and new businesses grow and prosper and to help emerging and existing entrepreneurs gain control of their business operations. With help from our network of business advisors we provide free guidance and counseling in all aspects of starting a new business or developing and improving your existing small business. While we cannot eliminate risk, we work to minimize it by helping clients write comprehensive business plans, conduct financial forecasts, strategize marketing tactics, apply for funding, create a social media strategy, and improve operations.