The Region 9 Economic Development District of Southwest Colorado has awarded Tommy Crosby with its Lender Partner of the Year Award.
Crosby, the Economic Opportunity Manager with the city of Durango, leads economic development and community investment for the city and was recognized for working creatively with Region 9 EDD’s Business Loan Fund to support the arts and culture industry. He continually looks for opportunities to collaborate and has assisted artists and events through Durango Creates and several other grant opportunities by referring them to Region 9 for short-term loans to financially support their initial investment, before receiving grant reimbursement.
“I'm grateful for the gap that Region 9 fills in our community when it comes to supporting small, creative entrepreneurs,” Crosby said. “Region 9's team has been a breeze to partner up with, and I have only heard glowing reviews from the city grant recipients that have worked with them.”
The award was established by Region 9’s Loan Committee which includes 12 appointed members: two from each county and two at-large. The awardee is chosen based on criteria including their professionalism with clients, community impact, and collaboration with the Business Loan Fund. Previous winners have included Cassie Alexander, vice president and senior loan officer with First National Bank of Cortez and Region 9 board member; the Southwest Small Business Development Center; and the Colorado Sate Forest Service for their partnership on the Forest Service Loan Fund.
Crosby was recognized at Region 9 EDD’s annual meeting on Jan. 29. For more information, contact Region 9 EDD at (970) 247-9621 or region9edd.org.
