At Local First, we believe locally owned independent businesses are the backbone of Southwest Colorado’s economy and the heart of our community. Every day, we see the dedication, creativity and resilience of the entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders who shape La Plata County. That’s why we are thrilled to partner with the Local Business Institute to bring two new professional development opportunities. Both programs are offered at no cost thanks to support from the state of Colorado’s Workforce Resilience Program.
The first program, Small Business Talent Magnet, is a flexible, on-demand course designed to help employers attract and retain top talent in today’s evolving workplace. Participants will explore what modern employees truly value – like flexibility, purpose-driven culture and inclusive leadership – and gain practical tools to build policies and practices that foster high engagement across generations and backgrounds. This program provides practical strategies, a video-based tool kit and a customizable guidebook to help businesses attract and retain the talent they need to thrive.
For those who benefit from more interaction and peer learning, New Thinking for Greater Success offers a six-week cohort experience beginning Sept. 16 and running through Nov. 11. Participants will meet virtually once a week in 90-minute sessions and have access to optional one-on-one coaching. The program focuses on strengthening business fundamentals – from money management to marketing – while fostering a mindset of innovation and resilience. Each participant will receive a guidebook to apply lessons directly to their work and track progress over time.
These programs reflect our mission to strengthen the local economy by empowering independent businesses. By leveraging state support, we are able to bring high-quality training directly to our members and the wider business community without cost being a barrier. We see this as an investment not only in individual businesses but in the collective well-being and resilience of our region.
This opportunity is open to any business in Colorado, not just our members. And we encourage small-business owners, managers and nonprofit leaders to take advantage of these opportunities. Space is limited, and early registration is recommended. To learn more and sign up, visit local-first.org. Together, we can continue to build a thriving, innovative and resilient community rooted in the strength of our locally owned independent businesses and nonprofits!
Ashley Christie is Local First’s membership and communications specialist.
