Bayfield-based Tailwind Nutrition, an endurance drink mix manufacturer, applied for and was awarded a $250,000 grant by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.
Fifteen Colorado companies received grants totaling $3.2 million through OEDIT’s Advanced Industries Accelerator Grant Program. Grants typically range from $100,000 to $250,000.
The grant program, which has awarded more than $40 million since its inception in 2013, aims to promote and grow advanced industries in Colorado. There are two grant cycles each year, in April and November.
Durango software company GitPrime also received a $250,000 grant in April. “We knew that based upon what the grant is trying to accomplish, it was a good fit for us,” said Tailwind Nutrition owner Jenny Vierling. “In terms of receiving it, we are so incredibly grateful. That money makes a huge difference for us.”
Tailwind Nutrition founders Jeff and Jenny Vierling started making the drink mix in their kitchen and selling it online in 2012. It is mixed with water to meet calorie, hydration and electrolyte needs.
The business opened a manufacturing facility in Bayfield in 2015, where it now employs 12 people.
The grant program received 80 applications, which were narrowed down through a subcommittee vetting process that examined each company’s products and technology, business strategy, financials, management and benefit to Colorado.
City Councilor Melissa Youssef was part of the advanced manufacturing subcommittee that examined Tailwind Nutrition’s business.
“I am so happy to be a part of the committee because it is how we grow jobs in the Southwest region that pay living wages,” she said. “This support of our businesses help us to diversify our economy.”
Youssef said the most effective and impactful way to support growing local businesses is through funding.
“It is such an amazing program for Colorado,” she said. “It is wonderful for our region and important to share the resources around the state.”
Vierling said the grant money will be primarily used to hire six new employees in marketing and sales.
“A smaller percentage of the grant will go toward events, a key part of our marketing,” she said. “We are in shock and disbelief, and are excited that we received this grant and that we will be creating jobs in La Plata County.”
mrupani@durangoherald.com
