• Learn about real-time contracting needs from over 30 exhibitors
• Network with decision-makers.
• Attend breakout sessions & roundtable discussions

As part of a research-driven initiative led by NoCo REDI, we’re gathering insights about life and work from people across the Northern Colorado region. Your feedback will inform the development of a people-powered regional brand and support efforts to attract companies and create jobs, retain talent, fill critical roles, and make the case for why Northern Colorado is a great place to build a career, a business, and a life.

Set aside a few thoughtful minutes to share your perspective. Your responses are completely anonymous. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, relax and tell us what makes us…us.

Murat Tercan, owner of Enchante Salon, had a unique vision: transforming part of his hair salon into a warm, welcoming Turkish café where people could enjoy traditional coffee, pastries, and sweets. With an idea in mind but unsure how to begin, Murat came to the Multicultural Business and Entrepreneurship Center (MBEC) for guidance.

MBEC helped him understand what it would take to open a second business in the same space. They connected him with Planning, Zoning, and Development Review and referred him to additional business resources to support his next steps. After helping him navigate licenses and permits, Murat brought his dream to life. Today, alongside Enchante Salon, his Turkish Café offers Fort Collins a little taste of Turkey.

This unique business idea led to the creation of a restaurant-focused roadmap by Development Review, with input from the MBEC. The guide outlines key steps and standards to help future entrepreneurs navigate the process of opening a restaurant in Fort Collins.

With the right support, big ideas can become reality. MBEC continues to be a resource for entrepreneurs like Murat and is here to help others take their first step.

About half of Fort Collins businesses are located inside the state-designated Enterprise Zone—but most don’t know it. The worst part? You could be leaving thousands in tax credits on the table without realizing it.

Everyday activities like buying equipment, hiring and training staff, and offering benefits might qualify for state incentives just by being in the right location. We’ve already helped several Fort Collins businesses unlock unexpected savings.

Want to know if you’re in the zone? Reach out to our office—we’ll help you find out!

When you're running a business, the right connection at the right time can change everything. That’s where we come in.

A Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) visit isn’t just a check-in—it’s a chance to tap into our network.

We know the people, the programs, and the paths to help you:

• Unlock funding or incentives
• Navigate tricky processes
• Get connected to other businesses, partners, or City contacts

Whether you’re facing a challenge or chasing an opportunity, we love playing connector—and we’re good at it!

Let’s make some introductions. Reach out to schedule a visit

The Regional Air Quality Council’s Engines Off for Food Trucks program will pay up to 80 % of the price (capped at $20,000) to swap out noisy, polluting generators for battery systems. The catch - for now - is geography: grant funds are limited to the Denver area (Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson Counties). Larimer and Weld aren’t on the list yet, but a food truck qualifies if it regularly operates (and is licensed) in the Denver area.

Why apply? Early converts report lower fuel bills, less maintenance, and a quieter customer experience. More than 30 trucks are already running fully electric, and the program has budget for roughly 100 more conversions this year.

What you can do now

• If you serve Denver markets—even just summer festivals—check the quick‑apply form at enginesoff.org/food-trucks to see if you’re immediately eligible.
• Larimer County and the City of Fort Collins are exploring options to extend funding north; a show of demand will strengthen our case for funding.

Cleaner air, quieter lines, and lower operating costs are on the table. Let’s bring those benefits home!

Special Opportunity for Food Service Providers!  

Food-serving businesses located in Fort Collins can now apply for a $1,000 grant to switch to eco-friendly takeout containers. This is a great way to reduce waste and show your customers you care about the planet. Apply Today!  

Ready to take your business to the next level? The Larimer County Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers expert-led trainings and workshops tailored to help established businesses grow, adapt, and thrive.

Whether you're looking to refine operations, boost marketing efforts, or strengthen your leadership skills, the SBDC has practical resources to support your goals.

The City is resuming construction at the intersection of South College Avenue (U.S. Highway 287) and Trilby Road.  Specific construction impacts will be updated here when available.

The State of Colorado now requires most businesses to offer retirement savings options—and the Colorado SecureSavings program makes it easy to comply. If your business has five or more employees, has been in operation for at least two years, and doesn’t already offer a retirement plan, you're required to register.

The program is state-facilitated, low-cost, and easy to manage, giving your employees access to a Roth IRA through automatic payroll deductions—at no cost to the employer. It’s a simple way to support your team’s financial future and stay compliant with state law.

Deadlines are rolling based on business size—make sure you're registered or exempt.

Stage 1: Venture Validator 1.0  –  October 23, 2025

The Venture Validator is the starting blocks for your entrepreneurial venture. This cohort-based program takes you through all the steps to get your venture off the ground and figure out if there’s a real opportunity there. The Validator is a 2-week 4 session program where you will:

• Understand who your customer is and what drives their decision making.
• Clarify your value proposition and know exactly what problem you’re solving and how.
• Build out the first half of your Business Model Canvas, identifying all the components needed to have a sustainable business.
• Learn from successful entrepreneurs and mentors as they guide you on your journey.

Stage 2: Venture Validator 2.0  –  November 13, 2025

The Venture Validator 2.0 is a continuation of your customer discovery journey from the Venture Validator 1.0. This cohort-based explored the second half of the BMC to dive deep on if there’s a real opportunity to turn your idea into a business. The Validator 2.0 is a 2-week 4 session program where you will:

• Develop your competitive landscape and see how you differentiate.
• Explore your supply chain and prospective partnerships.
• Build out the second half of your Business Model Canvas, identifying all the components needed to run a sustainable business.
• Learn how to build your Minimum Viable Product/Prototype.
• Learn from successful entrepreneurs and mentors as they guide you on your journey.