Yuma County, Colorado — The Yuma County Economic Development Corporation (YCEDC) is proud to announce the launch of its “Invest Yuma County” initiative, a campaign designed to invite businesses and community leaders to invest in the future of economic growth and sustainability in Yuma County.
The initiative aims to raise $140,000 to expand the EDC’s annual budget, enabling the organization to build on its recent successes and unlock new opportunities for the region.
Building on a legacy of success
The Yuma County EDC has been a driving force behind several transformative projects that have benefited the community. One of its most recent visible achievements is the arrival of Bomgaars, a retail store that filled the long-vacant Alco building in Wray. This project was facilitated by the EDC’s partnership with The Retail Coach, a consulting firm specializing in retail recruitment.
Another milestone was the initiative to bring a CDL testing center to Yuma County, a project that saved hours and miles for numerous businesses that needed Class A drivers. The initiative was driven by input from local agricultural businesses, looking for a closer alternative than the hours-long drive to Keenesburg. The site, located on a corner of the Yuma County fairgrounds, offers both training and testing services within our county.
“These projects demonstrate the tangible impact that economic development can have on our community,” said Mike Fecht, a longtime member of the EDC board. “But there’s so much more we could do with the right resources.”
Why Invest in Yuma County EDC?
The “Invest Yuma County” initiative creates a sustainable path forward for Yuma County. The campaign seeks to increase the EDC’s annual budget from $62,000 to $200,000, enabling the organization to hire a full-time director, fund internships to develop the local workforce, and pursue strategic initiatives such as retail recruitment and affordable housing options.
“Our budget hasn’t changed in 41 years – actually it is less now than it was in 1985, yet the challenges we face have only grown,” said Darlene Carpio, who is the EDC’s current part-time director. “To get a full-time person who can provide stability and drive long-term initiatives, we need to expand our resources. This campaign is about creating the foundation for sustainable growth.”
The initiative also aims to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors. By inviting businesses to invest, YCEDC hopes to create an advisory group of private investors who will have voting representation on the YCEDC board. This collaboration is seen as essential for understanding the needs of local businesses and ensuring that economic development efforts align with community priorities.
Pete Wilson, chairman of the board at Wray State Bank, emphasized the importance of private-sector involvement: “Government doesn’t create jobs; businesses create jobs. We need more private-sector voices at the table to understand what businesses need to grow and thrive.”
The EDC envisions a future where Yuma County is thriving, with businesses growing, families staying rooted, and opportunities abound.The organization’s goals include:
- Supporting Existing Businesses: Guiding local businesses to financial and labor resources to help them grow and thrive.
- Retaining Young Talent: Funding internships to provide valuable opportunities for young professionals and encourage them to stay in Yuma County.
- Exploring New Industries: Identifying opportunities for diversification and attracting industries that align with the region’s values.
- Addressing Housing Needs: Working with developers to create attainable housing options for workers and families.
“There’s so much potential in Yuma County, but we need the resources to unlock it,” Fecht said. “This campaign is about ensuring that economic development can continue to make a difference for businesses, families and future generations.”
Yuma County Economic Development Corporation is inviting businesses, community leaders and residents to invest in its mission to create a stronger, more resilient future for Yuma County. Contributions to the “Invest Yuma County” initiative, which start at $5,000, will directly support the organization’s efforts to drive growth and sustainability.
To learn more about the campaign or to make a contribution, visit the Yuma County Economic Development Corporation’s website or contact Carpio directly. Together, Yuma County can build on its successes and create new opportunities for the entire community.
About Yuma County Economic Development Corporation
The Yuma County Economic Development Corporation is a nonprofit established in 1985 by forward thinking business leaders and is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and improving the quality of life in Yuma County. By supporting local businesses, creating jobs and addressing infrastructure needs, the YCEDC helps ensure the long-term viability of the region.
Contact:
Darlene Carpio, Director, Yuma County Economic Development Corporation at consideryumacounty@gmail.com.