We are your local economic development resource.
What do we strive to do?
Job Creation
Our goal is to create quality jobs that will support and sustain the community. We are always looking for opportunities to bring new business and activities to Bent County. We offer numerous resources for start-ups as well as for businesses looking to expand in our area.
Job Retention
Job retention and business assistance go hand-in-hand. We are here to support local businesses in their efforts to not only survive, but to THRIVE. Through community support activities, employee trainings, workshops, and more- we are here to help!
Quality of Life
Safety, education quality and opportunity, poverty reduction, environmental quality, and cultural and recreational amenities all feed into our quality of life. Good quality of life makes living, working, and conducting business in a community worthwhile. We are here to advocate for the businesses and the residents of Bent County.
Services Offered
Entrepreneurship
Do you have a great business idea, but no idea how to get started? Set up a time to talk to our Director, and you will be led through the process of starting your own business. We also serve as a resource/liaison for potential NEW businesses to expand or relocate into our community.
Workforce Development
We are currently partnering with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and the Southeast Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to create programming and certification courses to place individuals into high-wage career fields. Contact our office for additional information.
Interships & Youth Engagement
The BCDF and Santa Fe Trail BOCES are coordinating opportunities for local businesses and community leaders to connect with local students through job shadow opportunities, unpaid semester student internships, or real world problem scenario experiences.
Community Project Development
We are here to help find funding to promote Arts & Culture, Education, Children/Youth Services, Community Improvement, Economic Development, Health & Wellness, Housing, Philanthropy, Sports & Recreation, Technology, and more.
Business Support Services
Sammie George (BCDF Director) is a certified SBDC Consultant with a degree in Business Administration and 10+ years in management, marketing, operations, and entrepreneurship. Call to set up a consultation with her to discuss your business needs.
Regional Economic Support for SE Colorado
We partner with organizations throughout the region, as well as with state and federal agencies and organizations to retain, support, and promote the well-being and economic health of Bent County and our neighbors.
Partnerships include:
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless
Colorado Workforce Development Center
Department of Local Affairs (DOLA)
Department of Vocational Rehabilitation
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Southeast Colorado Business Retention Expansion Attraction (SEBREA)
Southeast Colorado Enterprise Development (SECED)
Southeast Colorado Transit Regional Coordinating Council (SETran RCC)