.png){kind=logo}
COLORADO – The Department of Local Affairs recently awarded $780,000 through the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) program to rural Colorado communities to boost local economies and support small business owners.
“As a former educator, I’m grateful for this REDI program funding that will help connect San Luis Valley residents with professional development training and boost the educator workforce,” said Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. “From staffing quality educators in our schools to creating a skilled workforce for small businesses, these dollars will have a significant impact on rural communities.”
Rep. Martinez’s district received nearly $175,000 in funds, including:
Over $134,000 to the City of Alamosa Little Learners Early Care and Learning Center to support recruitment, hands-on training and professional development. The goal is to boost the educator workforce by 50 new professionals by 2027.
$15,000 to create the Saguache County Civics Lab “Launchpad” that will offer 30 paid high school internships with the purpose of developing workforce skills and boosting economic resiliency in rural Colorado.
$25,000 to the San Luis Valley Economic Outreach and Engagement Project to initiate collaboration between economic development organizations in the region and provide resources for businesses to reduce employee turnover and support the long-term success of local businesses.
"I’m excited to hear that Moffat and Eagle counties have received funding to boost rural economies and create good-paying jobs," said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. "I’ve proudly sponsored laws to revitalize rural business communities and support just transition for former coal communities. This funding will support our efforts to diversify rural economies and support Colorado business owners on the Western Slope.”
The Moffat County Geothermal Equipment Project was awarded over $62,000 to purchase necessary equipment that will help expand operations and support a just transition in former coal mining communities. This will be the first dedicated geothermal drilling service in Northwest Colorado.
The Town of Eagle was awarded $100,000 to fund a Business Advancement Program that will provide financial assistance to small businesses to promote growth and establish new locally-owned businesses.
"As the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Lyons is popular with tourists, and improving the visitor center can drive business to Lyons’ talented art community,” said Rep. Lesley Smith, D-Boulder. "With this funding, artists can enjoy a centralized place to sell and create their art, and we can bring more attention to these skilled artists.”
The Town of Lyons was awarded $16,500 to create storefronts and art creation in the Lyons Visitors Center for local artists and entrepreneurs. The funding would also allow for future expansion plans that could include workshops, an art studio and more retail space.
Learn more about the REDI program here.